The space above your cabinets is often overlooked, yet it offers valuable opportunities to enhance your kitchen’s style and personality. Top of kitchen cabinet decor refers to decorating this upper area with accents that complement your overall design.
Whether you prefer a cozy farmhouse feel, a modern minimalist look, or a bold and colorful display, decorating above your cabinets can turn an unused spot into a charming focal point. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make the most of this space, common mistakes to avoid, and beginner-friendly tips to create a polished, welcoming kitchen.
What is Top of Kitchen Cabinet Decor?
Top of kitchen cabinet decor is the art of styling the open space between the top of your cabinets and the ceiling. Instead of leaving it bare, homeowners add plants, baskets, artwork, lighting, or seasonal accents. This approach balances beauty and function, making the kitchen feel finished and thoughtfully designed.
Why Top of Kitchen Cabinet Decor is Important
✅ Adds height and dimension to your kitchen design
✅ Fills unused space that might otherwise collect dust
✅ Enhances style by tying in colors and textures from the rest of the kitchen
✅ Offers seasonal flexibility with decor you can switch out during holidays
✅ Personalizes your space with meaningful accents like family photos or heirlooms
Step-by-Step Guide to Styling Top of Kitchen Cabinet Decor
Step 1: Assess Your Space
💡 Measure the distance between cabinets and ceiling to understand what type of decor will fit best.
Step 2: Choose a Theme
✅ Stick to one theme—farmhouse, modern, minimalist, or seasonal—to keep the look cohesive.
Step 3: Add Large Anchor Pieces
💡 Use oversized baskets, vases, or framed art as focal points. Large pieces prevent the area from looking cluttered.
Step 4: Layer with Smaller Items
✅ Mix in smaller objects like books, greenery, or jars for texture and balance.
Step 5: Incorporate Lighting
💡 Add LED strips or fairy lights to highlight the decor and create warmth.
Step 6: Maintain Easy Access
✅ Place rarely used or purely decorative items up top while keeping everyday items within reach below.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️ Using too many small items, which can make the space look messy
⚠️ Choosing decor that doesn’t match the kitchen’s overall style
⚠️ Ignoring lighting, which leaves decor looking dull
⚠️ Overfilling the space, making it look heavy and overwhelming
Comparison Table: Best Decor Options for Above Cabinets
| Decor Idea | Style Impact | Practicality | Best For |
| Woven Baskets | Rustic & cozy | High storage use | Farmhouse or boho kitchens |
| Greenery & Plants | Fresh, lively | Low maintenance | Any style, modern or rustic |
| Artwork & Frames | Personal touch | Medium | Contemporary kitchens |
| Decorative Lighting | Warm, inviting | Medium | Evening ambiance |
| Seasonal Accents | Festive & fun | High flexibility | Holiday & theme decor |
Practical Tips for Beginners
✅ Stick to 3–5 larger pieces instead of cluttering with many small ones
✅ Use baskets or bins for both decor and hidden storage
✅ Try artificial plants if natural light is limited
✅ Keep colors in harmony with your cabinets and walls
✅ Refresh decor seasonally for variety and interest
Recommended Top of Kitchen Cabinet Decor Products on Amazon
- Mkono Woven Storage Baskets – Rustic baskets that provide both storage and decorative charm.
Check Product Price - Nearly Natural Artificial Greenery Set – Adds freshness without the maintenance of real plants.
Check Product Price - Stonebriar Decorative Lanterns – Creates a cozy farmhouse look when styled with lights or candles.
Check Product Price - Twinkle Star Fairy Lights – Warm lighting to highlight decor and add ambiance.
Check Product Price - Kate and Laurel Floating Frames – Perfect for artwork, prints, or family photos to personalize your space.
Check Product Price
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Kitchen’s Hidden Space
Decorating the top of your kitchen cabinets is a simple yet effective way to add personality and charm to your home. With the right mix of large anchor pieces, greenery, lighting, and seasonal accents, you can transform empty space into a beautiful, functional design feature. Start small, experiment with different themes, and enjoy the cozy, polished look that farmhouse baskets, plants, or lanterns can bring.
FAQs About Top of Kitchen Cabinet Decor
Q1: What’s the best decor for small spaces above cabinets?
Choose larger items like baskets or framed art to avoid clutter and keep the look balanced.
Q2: Can I use artificial plants above cabinets?
Yes, faux greenery is a great low-maintenance option, especially if natural light is limited.
Q3: How often should I change my above-cabinet decor?
Updating seasonally or a few times a year keeps the space fresh and prevents dust buildup.
