How to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets

Transform the space above your kitchen cabinets into a stylish focal point by grouping decorative objects, adding greenery, or installing floating shelves for both storage and display.

  1. Clear the Canvas First. Remove any dust and grease buildup from the top of your cabinets and the wall above them. Measure the depth and height of the space to determine what size decorations will fit comfortably. Most cabinet tops are 12-15 inches deep, giving you room for layered displays.
  2. Pick Your Aesthetic Now. Decide on a cohesive look that complements your kitchen. Modern kitchens work well with clean lines and minimal pieces, while farmhouse styles can handle more rustic, layered displays. Consider your existing color palette and stick to 2-3 coordinating colors for the best visual impact.
  3. Anchor With Height First. Start with your tallest items first, placing them toward the back corners. Large vases, tall baskets, or decorative bottles work well. Aim for pieces that are at least 8-10 inches tall to create proper scale against the wall and avoid looking lost in the space.
  4. Create Depth and Movement. Fill in with medium-sized pieces like pottery, small plants, or decorative boxes. Place these in front of or beside your tall pieces, creating depth and visual interest. Vary the heights by 3-4 inches between objects to create a natural, flowing arrangement.
  5. Bring in Living Green. Add low-maintenance plants or greenery to bring life to the space. Pothos, snake plants, or artificial plants work well in the limited light above cabinets. Place them in attractive planters that match your overall scheme and ensure proper drainage if using real plants.
  6. Finish With Curiosities. Use small decorative objects like candles, small picture frames, or collectibles to fill any remaining gaps. Group these in odd numbers and cluster them together rather than spacing them evenly. This creates a more natural, curated look.
  7. Illuminate Your Display. Consider battery-operated LED strip lights or small spotlights to illuminate your display, especially if your kitchen lacks natural light in this area. Warm white light creates a cozy ambiance and prevents the space from feeling like a dark void.