10 Oct 2024
Post by Callie
“Your kitchen should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love,” said designer Nate Berkus. The often-overlooked space above kitchen cabinets offers a fantastic opportunity to reflect your personality while enhancing your kitchen’s aesthetics. Knowing how to decorate above kitchen cabinets can transform a mundane area into a charming focal point.
Understanding the Space Above Your Cabinets
Before getting into the decoration ideas, it’s essential to assess the space above your kitchen cabinets. Start by measuring the height and width of the area to understand how much room you have to work with. Consider your kitchen’s overall style and color scheme to ensure that your decorations will complement rather than clash with the existing design. This thoughtful evaluation will help in making informed decisions about the decorations that will fit perfectly.
Decoration Ideas
Here are some creative decoration ideas to transform the space above your cabinets into a stylish and functional part of your home.
Utilize Decorative Baskets
Decorative baskets are a perfect blend of function and style. They add texture and warmth to the kitchen while providing additional storage. Opt for wicker baskets for a rustic look or sleek, metal baskets for a modern vibe. These baskets can store less frequently used items like extra kitchen linens, paper towels, or bulk goods such as dry pasta or grains. To maintain a cohesive look, choose baskets of varying sizes but similar materials or colors, arranging them in a visually pleasing manner.
Display Collectibles and Art
Showcasing collectibles and art pieces above your cabinets can add a personal touch to your kitchen. This space is ideal for displaying items that reflect your interests and experiences. For instance, vintage kitchen tools, antique pottery, or small sculptures can create a nostalgic atmosphere. Art pieces like framed prints or canvases can bring color and life to the area. Be mindful of scale and proportion; larger items should anchor the display, with smaller pieces adding balance and interest.
Install Accent Lighting
Accent lighting can dramatically enhance the space above your cabinets, adding both functionality and ambiance. LED strip lights or puck lights are excellent choices for this purpose. They can be placed along the top of the cabinets to cast a warm glow, highlighting your decorative items and creating a cozy atmosphere. For a more dynamic look, consider color-changing LED lights that can be adjusted to match the mood or season.
Incorporate Greenery
Plants bring a breath of fresh air into any space, and the area above your cabinets is no exception. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in the kitchen environment, such as succulents, spider plants, or pothos. Arrange the plants in attractive pots or planters that complement your kitchen’s decor. If you lack a green thumb, high-quality artificial plants can also achieve the desired effect without the upkeep.
Try Seasonal Decorations
Seasonal decorations offer an excellent opportunity to refresh your kitchen’s look throughout the year. In spring, you might display pastel-colored vases and fresh flowers. For fall, consider pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves. Holiday decorations like garlands and ornaments can bring festive cheer to the kitchen. By changing decorations seasonally, you can keep your kitchen feeling fresh and inviting without needing a complete overhaul.
Create a Mini Library
Transform the space above your cabinets into a mini library. Cookbooks are an obvious choice, offering both practical value and aesthetic appeal. However, you can also display other books that interest you, such as gardening guides, travel books, or even novels. Use bookends to keep them in place and add decorative objects like small sculptures or framed photos to break up the rows of books and add visual interest.
Use Decorative Plates and Trays
Decorative plates and trays can add a touch of elegance and color to the space above your cabinets. Collect plates in various patterns and sizes, and arrange them on stands to create a layered look. Trays can be used to group smaller items together, making the display look organized and intentional. Look for plates and trays that reflect your kitchen’s color scheme or add a pop of contrasting color for visual interest.
Add a Wine Rack
If you’re a wine enthusiast, consider installing a wine rack above your cabinets. This not only provides storage for your favorite bottles but also adds a sophisticated touch to your kitchen decor. Choose a wine rack that complements your kitchen’s style, whether it’s a sleek metal design for a modern kitchen or a wooden rack for a more traditional look. Arrange the bottles with their labels facing out to create an attractive display.
Practical Tips for Arranging Decorations
Ø Balance and Symmetry: Aim for a balanced arrangement. Symmetrical setups can be pleasing to the eye, but asymmetrical arrangements can also work if done thoughtfully.
Ø Layering: Place taller items at the back and shorter ones at the front to create depth and interest.
Ø Grouping: Group similar items together for a cohesive look. Odd numbers of items often look more visually appealing than even numbers.
Ø Stability: Ensure that items are stable and secure to prevent them from falling.
Ø Lighting: Use lighting to highlight key pieces and add warmth to the space.
Conclusion
Understanding how to decorate above kitchen cabinets can significantly enhance your kitchen’s overall look and feel. From decorative baskets and collectibles to accent lighting and greenery, there are numerous ways to utilize this often-overlooked space creatively and functionally. By following the practical tips and exploring various decoration ideas, you can transform your kitchen into a stylish and welcoming space that reflects your personal taste and style.
FAQs
What are easy ways to refresh the decor above kitchen cabinets?
Refreshing the decor above kitchen cabinets can be easily achieved by displaying colorful vases, vintage finds, or thematic seasonal decorations. Adding LED strip lights or small framed artworks can also brighten the space, making it a focal point in the kitchen.
How do you balance style and practicality when decorating above kitchen cabinets?
Balancing style and practicality when decorating above kitchen cabinets involves selecting items that are visually appealing yet functional. Use decorative storage containers or baskets to hide clutter while enhancing the overall aesthetic. Choose items that complement the kitchen’s theme and are easy to clean and maintain.
Can you use the space above kitchen cabinets for storage?
Yes, the space above kitchen cabinets can be used for storage. Optimize it by placing items less frequently used in stylish bins or baskets. Ensure these items are neatly organized and housed in containers that complement the kitchen’s decor to maintain an uncluttered look.
What are the best plants to grow above kitchen cabinets?
Detail a few plants that are suitable for growing in the typically limited light of this area, emphasizing their care and benefits.The best plants to grow above kitchen cabinets are those that thrive in indirect light and require minimal maintenance. Pothos, spider plants, and philodendrons are excellent choices as they adapt well to varying light conditions and add a touch of greenery without needing frequent watering.
