What To Do With Space Above Kitchen Cabinets?

The space above kitchen cabinets is often neglected, but it can be a valuable area for storage and decoration. Whether you’re looking to add more storage to your kitchen or simply want to spruce up the space, there are plenty of creative ways to utilize the area above your cabinets.

From adding plants and artwork to installing shelves and baskets, the possibilities are endless. Let’s explore some fun and functional ideas for making the most of the space above your kitchen cabinets.

Modern Kitchen Interior

What To Do With Space Above Kitchen Cabinets?

If you have a kitchen with high ceilings, you may find yourself with a gap between the top of your cabinets and the ceiling. This space can be awkward to decorate or leave empty. Here are some ideas for what to do with space above kitchen cabinets.

1. Add Some Greenery

Plants can add a touch of nature and freshness to your kitchen. Consider adding some potted plants or hanging plants above your cabinets. Make sure to choose plants that can thrive in low-light conditions and don’t require frequent watering.

You can also create a herb garden by installing a shelf or using a hanging planter. This will not only add some greenery to your kitchen but also provide fresh herbs for cooking.

2. Display Decorative Items

If you have decorative items that you love but don’t have space for, consider displaying them above your kitchen cabinets. This can include vases, sculptures, pottery, or any other decorative items that match your kitchen’s style.

To create a cohesive look, group items in odd numbers and vary the height and size of each item. You can also add some lighting to highlight your collection.

3. Install Additional Cabinets

If you need more storage space in your kitchen, consider installing additional cabinets above your existing ones. This will not only provide you with more storage but also create a seamless look in your kitchen.

Make sure to choose cabinets that match your existing ones in terms of style and color. You can also add some lighting to highlight your cabinets.

4. Use the Space for Wine Storage

If you’re a wine lover, you can use the space above your kitchen cabinets to store your wine collection. You can install a wine rack or use wine bottle holders to create a stylish display.

To ensure that your wine stays in good condition, make sure to store it in a cool and dark place away from direct sunlight.

5. Create a Display for Your Cookbooks

If you love cooking and have a collection of cookbooks, consider using the space above your kitchen cabinets to display them. You can install a shelf or use a book stand to create a stylish display.

To create a cohesive look, group your cookbooks by author or theme. You can also add some decorative items to the display to make it more visually appealing.

6. Add Some Lighting

If your kitchen is dark, you can use the space above your cabinets to add some lighting. You can install LED strip lights or use puck lights to create a subtle glow.

To ensure that the lighting complements your kitchen’s style, choose lights that match your existing fixtures in terms of color and style.

7. Use the Space for Storage

If you need more storage space in your kitchen, you can use the space above your cabinets to store items that you don’t use frequently. This can include seasonal items, party supplies, or any other items that you don’t need on a daily basis.

To ensure that your items are easily accessible, use baskets or storage containers that you can easily pull down.

8. Create a Gallery Wall

If you love art, you can use the space above your cabinets to create a gallery wall. You can hang a collection of art prints, photographs, or any other artwork that you love.

To create a cohesive look, choose artwork that complements your kitchen’s style and color scheme. You can also add some lighting to highlight your artwork.

9. Install a Faux Finish

If you want to add some texture or color to your kitchen, consider installing a faux finish above your cabinets. This can include a textured wallpaper, a painted mural, or any other decorative finish.

To ensure that the finish complements your kitchen’s style, choose a finish that matches your existing color scheme and decor.

10. Leave It Empty

If none of these ideas appeal to you, you can always leave the space above your cabinets empty. This can create a clean and minimalist look in your kitchen.

To ensure that the empty space looks intentional, make sure to clean and dust it regularly. You can also add some lighting to highlight the height of your kitchen’s ceiling.

In conclusion, the space above your kitchen cabinets can be a great opportunity to add some style and functionality to your kitchen. Whether you choose to add some greenery, display decorative items, or use the space for storage, there’s no shortage of creative ideas to choose from.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about what to do with the space above kitchen cabinets.

1. How can I decorate the space above my kitchen cabinets?

One way to decorate the space above your kitchen cabinets is by adding plants. You can choose to add faux plants or real plants that require minimal care. Another option is to display decorative items such as vases, candles, or artwork. You can also use the space to showcase your favorite collection of dishware or cookbooks.

When decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets, it’s important to keep in mind the overall style and color scheme of your kitchen. You want to choose items that complement and enhance the look of your kitchen, rather than clash with it.

2. Can I use the space above my kitchen cabinets for storage?

Yes, the space above your kitchen cabinets can be used for storage. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the space is not easily accessible and can be difficult to reach. It’s best to use the space for items that you don’t need to access frequently, such as holiday decorations, extra kitchen appliances, or serving dishes.

You can also use the space to store items that you don’t want cluttering up your countertops, such as cookbooks or decorative items that you don’t use often.

3. Should I leave the space above my kitchen cabinets empty?

Leaving the space above your kitchen cabinets empty is a personal preference. Some people like the look of the empty space, as it can create a clean and streamlined look. However, if you have high ceilings or a large kitchen, leaving the space empty can make the room feel unfinished.

If you do choose to leave the space empty, you can paint it the same color as your walls to help it blend in and create a cohesive look. Alternatively, you can use the space to add some architectural interest, such as adding crown molding or a decorative trim.

4. Can I install cabinets above my existing kitchen cabinets?

It is possible to install cabinets above your existing kitchen cabinets, but it can be a complicated and expensive process. You will need to hire a professional to ensure that the cabinets are properly installed and secured, as well as to ensure that they match the existing cabinets in style and color.

Before deciding to install additional cabinets, it’s important to consider if you really need the extra storage space. There may be other ways to maximize the storage in your kitchen, such as adding pull-out drawers or installing a pantry.

5. How can I make the space above my kitchen cabinets look cohesive with the rest of my kitchen?

One way to make the space above your kitchen cabinets look cohesive with the rest of your kitchen is by using the same color or material as your existing cabinets. This will help the space blend in and look like a natural extension of your cabinets.

Another option is to choose items to display in the space that complement the colors and style of your kitchen. For example, if you have a rustic kitchen, you might choose to display a collection of vintage kitchen tools or farmhouse-style pottery. If you have a modern kitchen, you might choose to display sleek glass vases or metal sculptures.

Creative Decorating Ideas for Empty Spaces Above Kitchen Cabinets


In conclusion, the space above your kitchen cabinets can be used in a variety of ways to add both functionality and style to your kitchen. Whether you opt for decorative items, additional storage, or a combination of both, there are plenty of options to choose from.

One important thing to keep in mind is that the space above your cabinets should complement the overall design of your kitchen. This can be achieved by selecting items that match your existing decor or by using the space to showcase a collection of your favorite items.

Ultimately, the decision of what to do with the space above your kitchen cabinets is up to you. With a little creativity and some careful planning, you can turn this often-overlooked area into a beautiful and functional part of your kitchen that you’ll love for years to come.

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