15 Must-See Above The Kitchen Cabinet Decor Ideas to Elevate Your Space

Looking to spruce up your kitchen? Here are 15 above the kitchen cabinet decor ideas you need to see!

Whether you’re aiming for a cozy vibe or a modern touch, these creative ideas will inspire you to transform that often-overlooked space into a stylish focal point.

From charming greenery to eye-catching artwork, there’s something for everyone. So, let’s dive into these fun and functional decor ideas that can elevate your kitchen’s aesthetic!

1. Embrace the Greenery: Using Plants

Adding plants above your kitchen cabinets brings life to your space. Plants not only look great, but they also improve air quality. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Pothos: This hardy vine thrives in various lighting conditions. Its trailing leaves create a beautiful cascade.
Snake Plant: Low maintenance and stylish, the snake plant tolerates neglect. It fits perfectly in tight spaces.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary add color and fragrance. Plus, you can use them in your cooking.
Succulents: These trendy plants come in various shapes and sizes. They require minimal care and look modern.

When choosing plants, think about their light needs. If your kitchen gets a lot of sunlight, opt for sun-loving plants. For darker areas, consider low-light varieties.

Display Ideas:

Grouping: Cluster plants of different heights and shapes together. This creates visual interest.
Hanging Planters: Use macrame or metal hangers for a stylish touch. Hang them from the ceiling for a unique look.
Shelving: Install floating shelves to showcase your plant collection. Mix in decorative pots for added flair.

Care Tips:

Water only when the soil feels dry. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Dust leaves regularly to keep them healthy and vibrant.
Rotate your plants occasionally for even growth.

Incorporating greenery above your kitchen cabinets adds a refreshing vibe. It brightens up the space and enhances your cooking environment. So go ahead, embrace the greenery!

2. Stylish Storage: Baskets and Boxes

Using baskets and boxes above your kitchen cabinets adds both functionality and style. They help you keep your kitchen organized while giving a cozy, inviting vibe. Here are some ideas to make the most of this space:

Woven Baskets: These add texture and warmth. Choose different sizes to create visual interest. Use them to store items like seasonal decor or extra kitchen supplies.
Labeled Boxes: Opt for wooden or cardboard boxes. Label them for easy identification. This keeps your decor looking tidy and helps you find what you need quickly.
Color Coordination: Match your baskets and boxes with your kitchen color scheme. This creates a cohesive look. Use neutral tones for a classic feel or vibrant colors for a pop of fun.
Mix and Match: Combine different styles of baskets and boxes. Pair a rustic wicker basket with a sleek metal box. This contrast adds character and charm.
Stacking: Stack smaller boxes on top of larger baskets. This maximizes vertical space and creates a layered look. Make sure to secure them to prevent any falls.
Seasonal Switch: Change out your decor with the seasons. Use holiday-themed baskets or boxes during festive times. This keeps the space fresh and exciting.
Functional Decor: Choose storage that doubles as decor. A vintage crate can hold cookbooks while adding a rustic touch. A decorative box can store utensils and look great doing it.
Height Variation: Use items of different heights to create depth. Tall, narrow boxes can balance out shorter, wider baskets. This adds visual intrigue.
Plant Integration: Incorporate small plants or herbs in some of the boxes. This adds a touch of greenery and liveliness to the decor.
Open Space: Don’t overcrowd the area. Leave some open space to let your decor breathe. A few well-placed items can make a bigger impact.

Using baskets and boxes above your kitchen cabinets not only enhances your storage options but also elevates your decor. Get creative and have fun with it!

3. Vintage Vibes: Antique Finds

Adding antique pieces above your kitchen cabinets creates a charming, nostalgic atmosphere. Here are some ideas to get those vintage vibes flowing:

Old Jars and Bottles: Use a collection of glass jars or vintage bottles. These can showcase colorful ingredients or simply stand alone as decorative pieces.
Vintage Cookbooks: Stack a few well-loved cookbooks with worn covers. They add character and tell a story about your cooking adventures.
Antique Kitchen Tools: Display old kitchen gadgets like whisks, sieves, or wooden spoons. These items can serve as both decor and a nod to culinary history.
Charming Plates: Hang decorative plates or platters. Look for unique patterns or colors that catch the eye and add personality to your space.
Rustic Baskets: Use woven baskets for a natural touch. They can hold anything from faux greenery to seasonal decor.
Vintage Signs: Find old restaurant or farm signs that resonate with you. They can add a quirky touch and spark conversations.
Old Clocks: An antique clock adds functionality and style. Look for one with a classic design that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic.
Framed Recipes or Photos: Frame some family recipes or nostalgic photos. This personal touch makes your kitchen feel warm and inviting.
Ironstone or Stoneware: Display pieces of ironstone or rustic stoneware. These timeless materials blend well with various decor styles.
Vintage Scale: Place a decorative scale on display. It serves as a functional piece and adds charm to your kitchen decor.

By mixing and matching these antique finds, you’ll create a cozy, vintage-inspired look that reflects your style. Each piece tells a story and adds depth to your kitchen’s decor.

4. Creative Shelving: Floating Options

Floating shelves bring a modern touch to your kitchen while maximizing space above cabinets. They create an open and airy feel, making your kitchen look larger. Here are some creative ideas for using floating shelves as decor:

Display Cookbooks: Stack your favorite cookbooks on floating shelves. Arrange them by color or size for a visually appealing look.
Showcase Dishware: Use floating shelves to showcase beautiful dishware. Mix and match plates, bowls, and mugs for an eclectic vibe.
Add Greenery: Place small potted plants or herbs on floating shelves. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your kitchen.
Art and Decor: Incorporate art pieces or decorative items. Use frames, vases, or unique finds to add personality.
Lighting Options: Install LED strip lights under the shelves. This creates a warm ambiance and highlights your decor.
Mix Materials: Combine wood and metal for a trendy look. Use wooden shelves with metal brackets or vice versa.
Layered Look: Stack smaller shelves on larger ones. This creates depth and interest, making your decor stand out.
Seasonal Decor: Change your floating shelf decor with the seasons. Use pumpkins in fall or festive decorations during the holidays.
Organize Essentials: Keep essential items like oils, spices, or utensils within reach. Use stylish containers to keep everything organized and looking good.
Personal Touch: Incorporate personal items like family photos or travel souvenirs. This adds warmth and makes your kitchen uniquely yours.

Overall, floating shelves offer endless possibilities for creativity. They not only serve as storage but also enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic. With the right decor choices, you’ll transform that often-overlooked space into a stylish focal point.

5. Statement Art: Bold and Beautiful

Transforming the space above your kitchen cabinets with statement art adds personality and flair. This area often gets overlooked, but a few bold pieces can elevate your kitchen’s style. Here are some ideas to consider:

Large Canvas Prints: Choose vibrant colors or abstract designs that pop against your cabinet finish. A massive canvas can draw the eye and create a focal point.
Framed Artwork: Hang a collection of framed pieces in various sizes and styles. This eclectic mix adds character. Consider using matching frames for a cohesive look or mismatched frames for a more relaxed vibe.
Wall Sculptures: Go for 3D wall art to add depth. Metal or wood sculptures can create a striking contrast against flat surfaces. They also bring texture into the space.
Mirrors: A large decorative mirror not only reflects light but also makes the kitchen feel larger. Choose a unique frame that complements your kitchen’s style.
Gallery Wall: Curate a gallery wall with a mix of art, quotes, and personal photos. This makes the area above the cabinets feel more inviting and customized.

When selecting statement art, keep the following in mind:

Color Scheme: Match or complement the colors in your kitchen. Consider the overall vibe you want to achieve—modern, rustic, or eclectic.
Height and Scale: Ensure the art fits the height of your cabinets. Choose pieces that won’t feel cramped or overwhelming.
Theme: Decide on a theme that resonates with you. Whether it’s nature, food, or abstract, keeping a theme helps tie the space together.
Lighting: Highlight your art with under-cabinet lighting or spotlights. This draws attention and creates ambiance.
Seasonal Changes: Don’t be afraid to switch things up! Rotating art pieces seasonally keeps the space fresh and exciting.

Incorporating statement art above your kitchen cabinets gives your space a unique touch. It reflects your personality and makes cooking a more enjoyable experience.

6. Rustic Charm: Wooden Accents

Adding wooden accents above your kitchen cabinets brings warmth and character to your space. This style embraces the beauty of nature and adds a cozy, homey vibe. Here are some ideas to incorporate rustic charm:

Reclaimed Wood Shelves: Use reclaimed wood to create open shelves. This not only provides storage but also showcases your favorite kitchen items like jars, cookbooks, and decorative pieces.
Wooden Signs: Hang wooden signs with fun quotes or kitchen-related phrases. Choose a weathered finish for that rustic touch.
Wooden Crates: Stack wooden crates for an organized yet stylish display. Fill them with herbs, cookbooks, or seasonal decor.
Farmhouse-Style Boxes: Use wooden boxes to hold small items like spices or utensils. Choose a distressed finish for that authentic rustic look.
Natural Wood Planks: Install natural wood planks along the top of your cabinets. This creates a seamless transition and enhances the rustic feel.
Wooden Bowls and Trays: Place wooden bowls or trays on top of the cabinets. These can hold decorative items or serve as a catch-all for small kitchen tools.

Incorporating these wooden accents can transform your kitchen into a warm, inviting space. Choose pieces that reflect your personal style, and don’t shy away from mixing different wood tones for added visual interest.

7. Play with Colors: Bright and Fun

Adding color above your kitchen cabinets can instantly transform the space. Don’t hold back—get creative and let your personality shine. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Bold Paint: A fresh coat of paint on the wall above your cabinets can change the entire vibe. Consider vibrant colors like emerald green, sunny yellow, or cobalt blue. These hues can create a stunning backdrop for your decor.
Colorful Accessories: Use colorful vases, jars, or decorative bowls to add life. Choose items in various shapes and sizes. Mix and match colors for a fun, eclectic look.
Seasonal Decor: Switch out items based on the season. Use warm oranges and browns in the fall, bright pastels in spring, and festive red and green during the holidays. This keeps your decor fresh and exciting.
Textiles and Fabrics: Hang colorful fabric or a quilt for a unique touch. This adds texture and can soften the look of hard surfaces. Choose patterns that tie in with your kitchen’s color scheme.
Artwork: Hang colorful artwork or framed prints above the cabinets. Look for pieces that pop against the wall color. This creates a focal point and adds character.
Plants: Incorporate plants with vibrant foliage. Consider herbs like basil and mint for a pop of green and a hint of fragrance. Use colorful pots to add an extra splash of color.
Lighting: Install LED strip lights in fun colors above your cabinets. This not only illuminates your decor but also creates a playful atmosphere. Choose colors that complement your kitchen’s overall theme.

Playing with colors above your kitchen cabinets allows you to express your style. Don’t be afraid to mix and match. The key is to create a space that feels welcoming and reflects your personal taste.

8. Seasonal Decor: Change it Up

Seasonal decor adds a fresh vibe to your kitchen. It keeps things lively and gives you a chance to express your creativity. Here are some fun ideas for seasonal decor above your kitchen cabinets:

Spring: Use pastel colors and floral arrangements. Consider placing small potted plants or decorative jars filled with colorful eggs for a cheerful touch.
Summer: Embrace bright colors. Incorporate beach-themed items like seashells, starfish, or a small beach ball. Sunflowers also bring a sunny feel into the space.
Fall: Go for warm tones. Use pumpkins, gourds, or leaves to create a cozy atmosphere. Woven baskets filled with faux foliage can add texture and warmth.
Winter: Bring in a festive spirit. Hang small ornaments or snowflakes. White lights can create a magical ambiance, perfect for the holiday season.

Tips for Seasonal Swaps:

Keep It Simple: Less is often more. Choose a few standout pieces to avoid clutter.
Use a Color Palette: Stick to a specific color scheme for each season. This creates a cohesive look and makes swapping easier.
Mix Heights: Vary the height of your decor. Combine tall vases with shorter items for visual interest.
Storage Solutions: Keep seasonal decor organized. Use clear bins to store items. Label them for easy access when it’s time to switch things up.
DIY Elements: Personalize your decor with DIY projects. Create your own wreaths or painted signs to reflect your style.

Changing up your decor seasonally keeps your kitchen feeling fresh and inviting. It’s a fun way to celebrate the time of year and make your space uniquely yours.

9. Personal Touch: Family Photos

Adding family photos above your kitchen cabinets brings warmth and personality to the space. This decor idea creates a cozy atmosphere while showcasing your loved ones. Here are some fun ways to display those cherished memories:

Frames of Different Sizes: Mix and match frame sizes for an eclectic look. Use small frames for candid shots and larger ones for family portraits. This variety adds visual interest.
Gallery Wall: Create a gallery wall with a collection of family photos. Arrange them in a grid or a more organic layout. Use similar frames for a cohesive look or go wild with colors and styles for a playful vibe.
Floating Shelves: Install floating shelves to showcase your family photos alongside decorative items. This adds depth and allows you to switch things up easily.
Seasonal Changes: Refresh your display with seasonal photos. Show off summer BBQs, holiday gatherings, or springtime adventures. This keeps your decor fresh and fun.
DIY Photo Blocks: Print your favorite photos, then mod-podge them onto wooden blocks. Stack these blocks above the cabinets for a rustic, personalized touch.
Quotes and Captions: Pair your photos with meaningful quotes or captions. Use small chalkboards or letter boards for a charming touch. This adds context and makes the display even more special.
Black and White vs. Color: Decide between black and white or vibrant color photos. Black and white images create a timeless look, while colorful ones bring energy and brightness to the kitchen.
Themed Displays: Choose a theme for your photos. It could be family vacations, milestones, or candid moments. This tells a story and creates a beautiful narrative above your cabinets.
Resin Coated Photos: For a unique twist, coat your photos in resin for a glossy finish. This makes them stand out and protects them from dust.

Incorporating family photos above your kitchen cabinets not only enhances the decor but also makes the space feel more inviting. It’s a simple way to celebrate your life and the people you love.

10. Functional Decor: Cookbooks on Display

Showcasing cookbooks above your kitchen cabinets adds charm and personality to your space. It transforms a usually neglected area into a functional display. Here’s how to make the most of your cookbook collection:

Curate Your Collection: Choose cookbooks that not only inspire you but also look good. Consider a mix of colors, sizes, and styles.
Use Stylish Stands: Invest in decorative bookstands or holders. They keep your cookbooks organized and easy to access while adding a touch of elegance.
Layer with Décor: Combine your cookbooks with other décor items. Place a small plant or decorative box next to the books for added visual interest.
Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different types of books. Combine vintage cookbooks with modern ones. This creates a unique and inviting look.
Rotate Regularly: Keep the display fresh by rotating your cookbooks. Change them seasonally or whenever you discover a new favorite.
Highlight Your Favorites: Showcase your go-to cookbooks on the front. This makes it easier to grab them when you want to cook up something delicious.
Add Personal Touches: Include family recipes or cookbooks from friends. This adds a personal touch and makes your kitchen feel more like home.
Choose a Theme: If you have a collection focused on a specific cuisine, display them together. It creates a cohesive look and highlights your culinary interests.
Consider Height: Stack some books horizontally and others vertically. This creates visual variety and helps draw the eye.
Use Color Coordination: Arrange your cookbooks by color for a striking visual effect. This can make a bold statement while keeping the area organized.

Displaying cookbooks above your kitchen cabinets not only saves space but also showcases your love for cooking. It turns your kitchen into a warm and welcoming space that invites creativity.

11. Lighting Magic: Fairy Lights or Lanterns

Transform your kitchen with some enchanting lighting options. Fairy lights and lanterns add a whimsical touch and create a cozy atmosphere. Here’s how to make the most of these magical decor items above your kitchen cabinets.

Fairy Lights

String Them Up: Drape fairy lights along the top edge of your cabinets. Choose warm white lights for a soft glow or colorful ones for a playful vibe.
Glass Jars: Fill glass jars with fairy lights. Place them on the cabinets for a charming centerpiece. This adds a rustic touch while keeping things bright.
Clip-On Style: Use clip-on fairy lights that can easily attach to cabinet edges. This allows for easy adjustments and different styles depending on your mood.

Lanterns

Mix and Match: Combine different sizes and styles of lanterns. Use metal, wood, or glass to create visual interest. Varying heights adds depth to your decor.
Battery-Operated Options: Go for battery-operated lanterns. These eliminate the hassle of cords and allow you to place them anywhere. Look for options with timers for automatic ambiance.
Seasonal Themes: Switch out lanterns according to the season. Use pumpkin-themed lanterns in fall and snowflake designs in winter. This keeps your decor fresh and fun.

Tips for Placement

Balance: Ensure a balanced arrangement. Place larger items on the ends and smaller ones in the middle for symmetry.
Height Variation: Use different heights to create visual layers. A mix of short and tall lanterns with fairy lights draped in between gives a dynamic look.
Safety First: Keep lights away from any flammable materials. Ensure they are securely attached to prevent falls.

Incorporating fairy lights or lanterns above your kitchen cabinets brings warmth and personality. Use these ideas to create a magical space that’s uniquely yours.

12. Mix and Match: Eclectic Styles

Embrace the beauty of eclectic decor above your kitchen cabinets. Mixing and matching different styles creates a unique and personalized look. Here are some tips to help you nail this approach:

Combine Textures: Use a variety of materials like wood, metal, and ceramic. A rustic wooden crate paired with a sleek metal lantern adds depth and interest.
Vary Heights: Play with different heights for your decor. Stack books horizontally, place a tall vase next to a shorter sculpture, and include medium-sized plants for balance.
Use Color Wisely: Pick a color palette but don’t be afraid to stray from it. Using a mix of bold colors and soft hues can create a vibrant yet harmonious display.
Incorporate Personal Finds: Include items that tell your story. Family heirlooms, travel souvenirs, or DIY projects add character and warmth.
Add Greenery: Plants bring life to any space. Mix faux and real plants for a layered look. Consider hanging macrame planters for an extra touch.
Rotate Seasonal Decor: Change your decor with the seasons. Use warm tones and pumpkins in fall, bright flowers in spring, or holiday-themed items during winter.

Here are some eclectic style combinations to inspire you:

Style Pairing	Description
Bohemian + Rustic	Use colorful textiles and earthy woods.
Industrial + Vintage	Combine metal accents with retro finds.
Coastal + Modern	Mix seashell decor with sleek lines.

Remember, there are no strict rules in eclectic decor. The goal is to create a space that feels uniquely yours. Have fun experimenting, and don’t hesitate to rearrange until it feels right. The mix of styles will keep the area above your kitchen cabinets fresh and inviting.

Conclusion

Decorating above your kitchen cabinets opens up a world of creativity. These 15 ideas inspire you to transform that often-overlooked space into a stylish focal point. Whether you choose to display vibrant dishware, rustic decor, or greenery, each option adds personality and charm to your kitchen.

Embrace your unique style and make the most of your kitchen’s potential. Experiment with different themes and materials to create a space that truly reflects you. Let your imagination run wild and enjoy the process of making your kitchen feel more like home.