The space above your kitchen cabinets is often overlooked, but it offers a perfect opportunity to add style, personality, and extra décor to your kitchen. Whether your cabinets are tall or just standard height, decorating this area can completely transform your space, making it look luxurious, cozy, or Pinterest-worthy. From plants and lighting to decorative objects and seasonal displays, the options are endless. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 creative styling ideas above kitchen cabinets, complete with step-by-step instructions, materials used, and Pinterest-style tips to inspire your next kitchen makeover.
1. Greenery and Plants
How-To:
Adding greenery is a timeless way to style the space above your cabinets. Use trailing vines, small potted plants, or tall leafy plants to fill the space naturally. Arrange plants in varying heights to create dimension and avoid overcrowding. For taller cabinets, add hanging planters or small shelves to extend the visual space.
Materials Used:
- Potted plants, trailing vines, or air plants
- Lightweight pots or baskets
- Small shelves or risers for height
- Potting soil or moss
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Combine different textures and shades of green for a natural look.
- Add small LED strips behind plants for a soft glow.
- Rotate plants to keep them healthy and vibrant.
Greenery adds freshness and brings life to otherwise unused space, making it a must-have for kitchens of any style.
2. Statement Artwork
How-To:
Artwork above cabinets creates a gallery-inspired look. Choose framed prints, paintings, or even canvas art that complement your kitchen colors. Lean the artwork against the wall above the cabinets instead of hanging it, as this is easier and safer for high areas. Layer multiple pieces of varying sizes for a curated feel.
Materials Used:
- Framed prints, canvas art, or posters
- Picture ledges or small risers (optional)
- Non-slip pads or museum putty to secure artwork
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Stick to a cohesive color palette for harmony.
- Mix vertical and horizontal frames for visual interest.
- Add small decorative objects around frames for layered style.
This method turns an unused space into a mini art gallery, reflecting your personality and style.
3. Decorative Baskets
How-To:
Baskets are functional and stylish for adding texture above cabinets. Use woven, rattan, or seagrass baskets to store kitchen items like linens, cookbooks, or even small appliances. Stagger basket heights and sizes to create a natural, casual look.
Materials Used:
- Woven baskets of varying sizes
- Labels (optional)
- Small risers or shelf inserts for layering
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Keep a neutral tone for a rustic or farmhouse style.
- Add faux greenery or dried flowers inside baskets for extra flair.
- Mix textures like rattan, wicker, and metal for depth.
Baskets combine function and style, perfect for kitchens needing extra storage without compromising décor.
4. Statement Lighting
How-To:
Adding lighting above cabinets creates warmth and visual interest. Use LED strips, puck lights, or small accent lamps. Lights can highlight decorative items, artwork, or plants, while adding a cozy ambiance.
Materials Used:
- LED strips, fairy lights, or battery-operated lamps
- Mounting tape or hooks
- Extension cords if needed
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Choose warm white lights for a cozy vibe.
- Hide wires behind cabinets for a clean look.
- Layer lights with plants or decorative objects for depth.
Lighting above cabinets adds a layered look, making your kitchen feel professional and welcoming.
5. Seasonal Decor
How-To:
Rotate décor above cabinets according to the season or holiday. In fall, display pumpkins and dried leaves; in winter, add evergreen garlands and ornaments; spring and summer can feature flowers and colorful accents.
Materials Used:
- Seasonal decorations like pumpkins, garlands, or ornaments
- Decorative pots or vases
- Small risers or trays
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Stick to one color theme per season for cohesiveness.
- Combine seasonal décor with permanent items like baskets or plants.
- Use height variation to create a layered display.
Seasonal décor keeps your kitchen feeling fresh, festive, and Pinterest-ready all year.
6. Collections of Objects
How-To:
Curate a collection of decorative objects such as ceramics, glass bottles, vases, or figurines above your cabinets. Arrange them in odd numbers (3, 5, 7) for a more natural, balanced look.
Materials Used:
- Ceramic or glass objects
- Small risers or trays
- Non-slip pads for stability
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Mix sizes and textures for depth.
- Stick to a cohesive color palette to avoid visual clutter.
- Rotate objects occasionally to refresh the display.
Collections above cabinets make the space personal and stylish, adding character without overwhelming your kitchen.
7. Books and Cookbooks
How-To:
Stack cookbooks or decorative books above cabinets for a functional yet aesthetic look. Alternate vertical stacks with horizontal ones to create dimension, and mix in small décor items like vases or plants for added visual interest.
Materials Used:
- Cookbooks or decorative books
- Small decorative items
- Bookends (optional)
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Choose books with attractive covers and colors.
- Layer books at different heights.
- Combine books with small planters or figurines for texture.
Books above cabinets create a homey, lived-in feel, perfect for kitchens with a cozy or eclectic style.
8. Vintage or Antique Finds
How-To:
Add vintage or antique pieces like old jars, pottery, or unique collectibles above cabinets for a rustic charm. Pair these items with modern décor to create a contrasting, layered aesthetic.
Materials Used:
- Vintage jars, vases, or collectibles
- Decorative trays or risers
- Small accent plants or lights (optional)
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Combine metallics, ceramics, and glass for variety.
- Group items in odd numbers for balance.
- Keep the color palette cohesive with your kitchen décor.
Antique finds add personality, history, and warmth to your kitchen décor, making it visually rich and unique.
9. Mirrors and Reflective Surfaces
How-To:
Use small mirrors, mirrored trays, or metallic décor above cabinets to reflect light and create depth. This trick works especially well in smaller kitchens, making the space feel larger and brighter.
Materials Used:
- Small mirrors or mirrored trays
- Metallic decorative objects
- Adhesive or secure risers
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Layer mirrors with other objects for dimension.
- Keep reflective surfaces minimal to avoid clutter.
- Pair mirrors with warm lighting to enhance the glow.
Mirrors above cabinets give a sophisticated, airy effect, perfect for modern or minimalist kitchens.
10. Artwork and Typography
How-To:
Display typography, quotes, or small framed prints above cabinets for a playful, personalized touch. Opt for materials like wood, metal, or canvas for variety. Layer typography with other décor like plants or baskets for balance.
Materials Used:
- Wooden or metal quote signs
- Small framed prints or canvases
- Risers or adhesive pads
Pinterest Styling Tips:
- Stick to a cohesive font style or color palette.
- Mix sizes and orientations for depth.
- Combine quotes with small greenery or objects for texture.
Typography adds a fun and modern vibe above cabinets while keeping your décor highly personalized.
Conclusion
Styling above kitchen cabinets is an easy and impactful way to elevate your kitchen décor. From plants and lighting to seasonal décor, artwork, and vintage finds, the possibilities are endless. By mixing textures, heights, and colors, you can create a Pinterest-worthy look that reflects your personal style. These 10 ideas help you maximize unused space, add personality, and make your kitchen feel curated and inviting.
