How to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets with High Ceilings?

Decorating above kitchen cabinets with high ceilings can be a bit of a design challenge. This often-overlooked space can either enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic or make it feel unfinished if not utilized properly. If you’ve been wondering how to decorate above kitchen cabinets with high ceilings, you’re in the right place.

In this blog, we’ll explore creative ideas and practical tips to help you make the most of this space, turning it into a stylish and functional part of your kitchen design.

Consider the Space and Proportion

Before you start decorating above your kitchen cabinets, it’s important to consider the available space and how it relates to the overall proportion of your kitchen.

Evaluate the Space

Height of the Ceiling: The height of your kitchen ceiling will determine how much space you have to work with. High ceilings provide ample room for decorative elements, but it’s important not to overwhelm the space with too many items.
Depth of the Cabinets: The depth of your cabinets will also influence how you decorate above them. Deeper cabinets can accommodate larger decorative pieces, while shallower cabinets may require smaller items or lighter décor.

Maintain Proportion

Balance and Scale: When decorating above kitchen cabinets with high ceilings, maintaining balance and scale is key. Large, oversized items can make a bold statement, but be mindful of not overpowering the space. On the other hand, small items can get lost in a large area, so consider grouping them together for a more cohesive look.

Also Read – How to Build a Kitchen Pantry Cabinet?

Creative Decorating Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets

There are many ways to decorate above kitchen cabinets with high ceilings, ranging from functional storage solutions to purely decorative elements. Here are some ideas to inspire your design.

Display a Collection

Curate a Collection: One of the most popular ways to decorate above kitchen cabinets is to display a curated collection of items. This could be anything from vintage dishware and glass bottles to pottery, baskets, or even cookbooks. Choose items that reflect your personal style and complement the color scheme of your kitchen.
Create Visual Interest: To add visual interest, vary the height and size of the items in your collection. For example, you can stack books or use risers to elevate certain pieces, creating a dynamic and layered look.

Incorporate Greenery

Add Plants: Greenery is a great way to bring life and freshness to the space above your kitchen cabinets. Consider adding potted plants, trailing vines, or even faux greenery if you prefer low-maintenance options. Plants can soften the edges of the cabinets and add a natural touch to your kitchen décor.
Mix and Match: You can mix different types of plants for a lush, diverse look. Use planters in various shapes, sizes, and materials to add texture and contrast. If your kitchen has plenty of natural light, consider using real plants that thrive in indoor environments.

Use Baskets and Bins for Storage

Functional Storage: Baskets and bins are both practical and decorative when placed above kitchen cabinets. They provide additional storage space for items you don’t use daily, such as extra linens, seasonal dishware, or kitchen gadgets.
Choose Matching Baskets: For a cohesive look, choose baskets or bins that match or coordinate with each other. Wicker baskets, wire bins, or fabric-covered boxes can all work well, depending on your kitchen’s style. Label the baskets for easy access to stored items.

Display Artwork or Framed Photos

Create a Gallery: If you want to add a personal touch to your kitchen, consider displaying artwork or framed photos above the cabinets. Choose pieces that resonate with you, whether it’s family photos, vintage prints, or abstract art. A gallery of framed artwork can make the space feel more lived-in and personalized.
Mix Sizes and Styles: To keep the display interesting, mix different sizes and styles of frames. You can lean the frames against the wall for a casual look or hang them securely if you prefer. Just be sure to arrange the frames in a way that feels balanced and intentional.

Add Statement Lighting

Install Lighting: Lighting is a functional and decorative element that can elevate the space above your kitchen cabinets. Consider installing LED strip lights, puck lights, or even pendant lights to illuminate the area and highlight your décor. Lighting can create a warm and inviting ambiance, especially in kitchens with high ceilings.
Accent Lighting: Use accent lighting to draw attention to specific decorative items or to create a soft glow that enhances the overall atmosphere of your kitchen. Dimmable lights are a great option for adjusting the brightness to suit different moods and times of day.

Incorporate Decorative Molding or Trim

Enhance Architectural Interest: Decorative molding or trim can add architectural interest to the space above your cabinets. Crown molding is a popular choice that adds a touch of elegance and can make the transition between the cabinets and the ceiling feel more seamless.
Customize Your Look: There are various styles of molding to choose from, ranging from simple and sleek to more ornate designs. Choose a style that complements your kitchen’s aesthetic and adds a polished, finished look to the space.

Create a Mini Library

Store Cookbooks: If you’re an avid cook, consider using the space above your kitchen cabinets to store and display your collection of cookbooks. Arrange them by size, color, or subject matter to create an organized and visually appealing display.
Add Bookends: Use decorative bookends to keep your cookbooks upright and in place. This not only adds a practical element to the space but also introduces another layer of décor. Choose bookends that match the theme of your kitchen for a cohesive look.

Incorporate Decorative Plates or Platters

Display Decorative Dishware: Decorative plates or platters can be a beautiful addition to the space above your kitchen cabinets. Whether you opt for antique china, hand-painted ceramics, or modern designs, these pieces can add color, pattern, and personality to your kitchen.
Arrange in a Stand: Use plate stands or easels to display the plates upright, or lean them against the wall for a more casual look. You can also hang the plates on the wall above the cabinets for a more permanent display.

Tips for Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets with High Ceilings

When decorating above kitchen cabinets with high ceilings, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure a successful and stylish result.

Keep It Simple

Avoid Overcrowding: While it’s tempting to fill the space with lots of decorative items, it’s important to avoid overcrowding. Too many items can make the space feel cluttered and chaotic. Instead, choose a few statement pieces or a well-curated collection to create a more focused and intentional display.

Consider the Overall Kitchen Design

Coordinate with Existing Décor: The décor above your kitchen cabinets should complement the overall design and color scheme of your kitchen. Whether your kitchen is modern, traditional, rustic, or eclectic, the items you choose should enhance the existing style rather than compete with it.

Use a Ladder or Step Stool

Ensure Safety: Decorating above kitchen cabinets with high ceilings often requires the use of a ladder or step stool. Make sure you use a sturdy, stable ladder and take precautions to avoid accidents. It’s also a good idea to have someone assist you when placing heavier or larger items.

Rotate Décor Seasonally

Change with the Seasons: To keep the space above your kitchen cabinets feeling fresh and interesting, consider rotating your décor seasonally. For example, you can display festive items during the holidays, fresh flowers in the spring, or cozy accents in the fall. This approach allows you to refresh your kitchen’s look without making permanent changes.

Conclusion

Decorating above kitchen cabinets with high ceilings is an excellent opportunity to add style, personality, and functionality to your kitchen. Whether you choose to display a collection, incorporate greenery, use baskets for storage, or add lighting, the key is to maintain balance and proportion while complementing the overall design of your kitchen.

By following the tips and ideas outlined in this guide, you can transform the often-overlooked space above your cabinets into a visually appealing and practical part of your kitchen décor. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can make your kitchen feel complete and inviting.