Maximizing Vertical Space in Your Kitchen: 19 Creative Ideas for Decorating the Top of Kitchen Cabinets

Are you looking to add some flair to your kitchen but not sure how to utilize the space above your cabinets? Decorating the top of cabinets is an easy way to enhance the overall look of your kitchen while maximizing vertical space. Whether you have custom-built cabinetry or are working with existing cabinets, there are plenty of creative ways to transform that empty space from a dust-collecting zone into a stylish display area or additional storage spot. Let’s explore some decorating ideas that will help you make the most of every last inch of vertical space in your kitchen!

Decorative Baskets

Have you ever considered using decorative baskets to define the empty space above your cabinets? These baskets not only add a touch of warmth and texture but also serve as a functional storage solution. Studio Peake showcases how tall, seamless built-in cabinetry painted in a serene shade of gray can be complemented by a row of decorative woven baskets.

Vintage Mirrors

Incorporating vintage mirrors on the top row of open shelving can not only reflect light and views but also add a touch of charm to your kitchen. Leanne Ford Interiors demonstrates how vintage mirrors can be a stylish addition to a light-flooded kitchen that combines old and new elements seamlessly.

Patterned Wallpaper

If you’re looking to add a pop of color and pattern to the space above your cabinets, consider hanging patterned wallpaper. deVOL Kitchens shows us how nature-themed illustrated kitchen wallpaper can complement the existing decor while adding visual interest.

Bar Storage

Why not utilize the space above your cabinets for practical storage? A Beautiful Mess offers a creative solution by child-proofing the liquor cabinet and neatly organizing bottles in wire baskets on top of the kitchen cabinets. This not only adds storage space but also keeps valuable items out of reach.

Trailing Vines

For a touch of nature and greenery, consider placing plants with delicate trailing vines on top of your cabinets. deVOL Kitchens demonstrates how adding plants can bring a natural touch to your kitchen while enhancing the overall aesthetics.

Additional Ideas for Decorating the Top of Kitchen Cabinets

Now that we’ve covered some creative ways to decorate the top of kitchen cabinets, let’s explore more ideas that will help you transform that often-overlooked space into a stylish focal point in your kitchen.

Art and Objects

Layering art and objects on top of the kitchen cabinets can create a visually appealing display. Mindy Gayer Design Co. shows us how art and objects can be strategically placed to focus the eye and add a cozy feel to the space.

Dried Botanicals

Adding dried botanicals and tall vases of branches can fill the empty space above your cabinets while adding a touch of nature. Lobster and Swan demonstrate how olive green painted cabinets paired with objects and botanicals can create a rustic and inviting atmosphere.

Everyday Objects

Why not use everyday kitchen items to decorate the tops of your cabinets? deVOL Kitchens shows us how a simple basket and spillover earthenware can add a casual but coordinated look to the top of a freestanding cabinet.

Storage Baskets

Thistlewood Farms offers a practical solution by adding a row of matching storage baskets to the top of an open china hutch. This not only adds storage space but also maintains a cohesive look in the kitchen.

Row of Plants

Leanne Ford Interiors showcases how a row of bushy Boston ferns can add a lush look and vibrant touch of greenery to your kitchen. Whether you have a spacious kitchen or a compact one, adding plants is always a great idea.

More Cabinets

Instead of leaving blank space above your cabinets, consider adding more cabinets for additional storage. Leanne Ford Interiors demonstrates how glass-front built-in cabinetry can seamlessly fit the space while preserving an airy feel in the kitchen.

Colorful Vases

For a pop of color and personality, consider adding colorful glassware and plants to the tops of your cabinets. Dazey Den shows us how mixing plants and colorful vases can define zones and add a playful touch to your kitchen.

Mixed Objects

Rustic vintage cabinets with a mix of materials can add character and storage to your kitchen. Leanne Ford Interiors demonstrates how stacked cabinets styled with mixed objects can give the room a sense of history and charm.

Open Storage Nooks

Alvin Wayne showcases how open stained wood niches above white cabinets can serve as display space and storage for cookbooks or decorative items. This not only adds visual interest but also makes good use of the available space.

Everyday Items

Arbor & Co. demonstrates how simple bowls can be used to decorate the top of cabinets in a small kitchen. By treating the cabinetry top as an extension of the open shelving, you can create a cohesive and accessible display.

Cookbooks

Whittney Parkinson Design offers a clever solution for storing cookbooks in the dead space between built-in refrigerator and kitchen cabinetry. By utilizing every inch of space, you can keep your cookbooks organized and within reach.

Floor-to-Ceiling Backsplash

Installing a floor-to-ceiling backsplash can eliminate the problem of filling the empty space above your cabinets. Brophy Interiors showcases how a dramatic backsplash can create a cohesive look and add visual interest to your kitchen.

Faux Greenery

If you’re not keen on maintaining real plants, consider using faux greenery to decorate the top of your cabinets. M. Wilcox Design demonstrates how realistic-looking faux plants can provide a low-maintenance alternative while adding a touch of green to your space.

Custom Built-Ins

For those designing a kitchen from scratch, custom-building cabinets that kiss the ceiling can eliminate the need for decorating the space above the cabinets. Louis Duncan-He Designs showcases how maximizing vertical space with custom built-ins can create a seamless and polished look in your kitchen.

Creating a Cohesive Look

When decorating the top of your kitchen cabinets, it’s important to choose objects that complement the color palette and style of your space. Whether you opt for rustic baskets, vintage objects, sculptural decor, or greenery, ensure that the decor items reflect the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.

By incorporating these creative ideas for decorating the top of your kitchen cabinets, you can transform that often-neglected space into a stylish and functional area that enhances the overall look of your kitchen. Experiment with different decor elements, mix and match styles, and have fun personalizing the space above your cabinets to create a unique and inviting kitchen environment. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a more elaborate display, there are endless possibilities to explore when it comes to maximizing vertical space in your kitchen. So, get creative and start decorating the top of your kitchen cabinets with style and flair!