12+ Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Ideas (Make That Empty Spot Shine!)
I used to leave that awkward space above my kitchen cabinets completely empty.
Honestly, I never knew what to do with it.
However, once I started exploring above kitchen cabinet decor ideas, everything changed.
That little space suddenly felt like an opportunity instead of an eyesore.
Eventually, I found ways to add personality, warmth, and even a bit of storage up there.
From baskets and vases to vintage signs and greenery, above kitchen cabinet decor ideas helped me make the most of that forgotten spot.
As a result, the whole room felt more finished.
Now, let’s walk through some simple and beautiful above kitchen cabinet decor ideas that could work in your kitchen too.
1. Add Baskets to Bring In Texture
I love using woven baskets above kitchen cabinets.
There’s just something about the texture that softens all the hard surfaces in the kitchen. It adds warmth and character without much effort.
For example, you can tuck away seasonal items or just leave them empty for that decorative charm.
Baskets work especially well in rustic, farmhouse, or cottage kitchens.
In addition, the natural fibers draw the eye upward, making the space feel cozy and intentional without being too busy.
2. Lean Framed Art for an Unexpected Touch
This one might surprise you, but leaning artwork above cabinets adds personality fast.
I did this in my aunt’s kitchen once, and it instantly made the space feel less sterile.
Think vintage frames, botanical prints, or even abstract art. The key, however, is to keep the colors in tune with your kitchen’s palette.
Art up there feels casual and collected, not too perfect. It tells a story without needing to say a word.
3. Bring in Greenery (Real or Faux)
A touch of greenery above kitchen cabinets makes everything feel fresher.
You don’t need to fuss with real plants if that’s too much.
Instead, a good faux garland or a row of potted herbs will still do the trick.
This works especially well in modern farmhouse and earthy-toned kitchens.
According to Tropicalistic studies, greenery naturally calms the mind and helps balance out all the neutral tones.
4. Show Off Your Favorite Cookbooks
If you’re anything like me, you probably have more cookbooks than you actually use.
Why not let them shine?
Stack a few pretty ones above the cabinets with the spines facing out.
As a result, it feels lived-in and loved, and it says real people cook here!
This also works great in small kitchens where storage is tight.
Just make sure the books aren’t too close to heat or steam.
5. Line Up Vintage Kitchen Finds
I once helped a friend decorate her rental kitchen, and we used all her grandmother’s old mixing bowls and copper kettles above the cabinets.
It looked amazing.
These kinds of vintage kitchen accessories are full of charm and history.
Plus, this trick works great if you want a nostalgic or eclectic vibe.
Ultimately, it turns that often-wasted space into a mini gallery.
6. Add a Touch of Glow with Fairy Lights
Soft and warm fairy lights make a huge difference in how a kitchen feels, especially at night.
I added some above my cabinets during the holidays one year, and I never took them down.
It gives off a gentle and ambient glow that feels so cozy. In fact, it became one of my favorite small upgrades.
Bonus Tip: Plug them into a smart timer, and they will turn on by themselves every evening.
This works especially well in darker kitchens that need a little mood lift.
7. Use Matching Storage Boxes for a Clean Look
Sometimes clutter just looks… cluttered.
That’s when I recommend matching storage boxes.
Choose boxes in a colour or texture that complements your kitchen cabinets, and label them if needed.
They’re perfect for storing things you don’t reach for often, like party supplies or rarely-used appliances. As a result, everything looks neat and tidy from below.
This is a smart solution for modern and minimalist kitchens.
8. Display a Few Ceramic or Porcelain Pieces
I have always had a soft spot for white ceramic pitchers and bowls.
When grouped above kitchen cabinets, they feel clean, classic, and easy on the eyes.
You don’t need a whole collection either, just two or three well-placed pieces can do wonders. This idea works especially well with cottage core, traditional, or farmhouse styles.
After all, there’s a reason white ceramics have been used for centuries, they never go out of style.
9. Create a Mini Indoor Garden
One of my favorite setups I ever did was turning the top of the cabinets into a mini garden.
I used different sizes of terracotta pots, all with faux trailing plants.
Naturally, it gave the whole kitchen this soft and alive feeling.
You don’t need a green thumb either, just realistic faux plants work perfectly.
And when grouped together, they create a lush, calming layer that makes the kitchen feel more balanced and breathable.
10. Try a Monochrome Theme for Simplicity
If you’re after a more minimal look, try decorating with items in the same colour family.
I helped a friend style hers using all white objects, such as jars, vases, and trays, and it looked incredibly polished.
The matching tones gave the kitchen a calm, organized feel without any clutter.
Overall, this trick works well in modern, Scandinavian, or transitional kitchens where less truly is more.
11. Mix in Some Seasonal Decor
I have found that the space above the cabinets is perfect for rotating seasonal decorations.
Think pumpkins in autumn, pinecones and garlands in winter, or even beachy items for summer.
It’s fun, easy to change, and keeps the kitchen from feeling the same all year round.
In fact, Very Well Mind studied, seasonal decor can actually boost your mood by helping you feel more connected to time and tradition.
12. Add Chalkboard Signs or Letter Boards
I once added a mini chalkboard sign above a friend’s cabinets that simply said Bake & Be Happy.
She got more compliments on it than anything else in her kitchen. Little touches like letter boards or chalk signs can bring humor or heart into your space.
Best of all, you can swap out the quotes or sayings anytime, which keeps things fresh and fun.
13. Go Bold with a Gallery Wall Look
Now, this one is for those who love visual interest.
Try hanging or leaning a mix of small framed artwork, mirrors, or decor pieces to create a mini gallery wall above the cabinets.
I helped someone do this in a dark-toned kitchen, and the contrast was stunning.
Moreover, mixing shapes and sizes adds depth, especially if your kitchen feels a bit too flat or monotone.
It’s bold, but beautiful when done right.
14. Add Wood Crates for Rustic Charm
I used wood crates in my old apartment to hide clutter.
But when I moved, I stacked them above the cabinets and loved how it looked.
The rough wood adds texture and instantly brings that rustic kitchen charm into the room. Additionally, you can leave them open or fill them with fabric, jars, or plants.
They’re especially great in country-style or farmhouse kitchens where that worn-in feel makes everything more inviting.
15. Display Your Own Collections
One of the most personal touches you can add is your own collection.
I have seen everything from vintage teacups to old cameras lined up above cabinets, and they always become conversation starters.
If there’s something you love, and it fits the space visually, don’t be afraid to showcase it.
Ultimately, your kitchen will feel more like you, and it will remind you of happy memories every time you walk in.
Is It Okay To Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets?
Yes, it’s totally okay. In fact, it’s one of my favourite little corners to style.
That empty space was just collecting dust until I started adding a few simple pieces. As a result, it makes the kitchen feel more complete without getting in the way.
Plus, it’s a fun way to show a bit of personality without cluttering your counters.
Just keep it light and intentional, and it really pulls the whole room together in a subtle way.
What Looks Good On Top Of Kitchen Cabinets?
A mix of things works well.
For instance, I used woven baskets for storage, a few vintage tins I found at a market, and a trailing faux plant to soften the edges.
Some people go for framed art or ceramic jars too.
The key, though, is not cramming too much. Try mixing heights and textures, and leave little gaps to keep it airy.
In the end, you will be surprised how much charm it adds without making things feel busy.
Final Thought
I hope you found these above kitchen cabinet decor ideas helpful and inspiring.
Sometimes the smallest changes can make a big difference in how your space feels.
If you’re looking for more cozy and creative tips like these, follow me on Pinterest for daily home decor inspiration.
I’m always sharing fresh, doable ideas to help you love where you live.