Elevate Your Kitchen Style: Decorating Ideas for Above Kitchen Cabinets

Whether you're looking to add a touch of personality, functionality, or both, the space above your kitchen cabinets offers ample opportunities to enhance the aesthetics and practicality of your cooking zone. Here's a comprehensive guide to inspire your decorating ideas and create a kitchen that truly reflects your style:

1. Open Shelving: A Modern, Functional, and Aesthetic Choice

Open shelving is a versatile option that combines style and functionality. It provides easy access to frequently used items while showcasing your favorite dishes, glassware, and cookbooks. Open shelves can be made of wood, metal, or glass, allowing you to choose a material that complements your kitchen's existing decor.

Tips for Open Shelving:

• Keep it organized: Open shelves can easily become cluttered, so it's essential to maintain a tidy arrangement. Use baskets, bins, and dividers to keep items organized and visually appealing.
• Limit the amount of items: Don't overcrowd your shelves; instead, display a curated selection of items that you use regularly or find visually pleasing.
• Consider the height of your cabinets: Make sure the open shelves are at a height that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. You should be able to reach items easily without having to stretch or climb.

2. Crown Molding: An Elegant and Architectural Touch

Crown molding adds an elegant finishing touch to kitchen cabinets and creates the illusion of higher ceilings. It is a versatile architectural element that can complement both traditional and modern kitchen designs.

Types of Crown Molding:

• Simple Crown: A simple crown molding has a single profile with no embellishments. It is a classic choice that adds a subtle touch of elegance.
• Dentil Crown: Dentil crown molding features a series of small, evenly spaced blocks or dentils. It is a more ornate option that adds a touch of formality to the kitchen.
• Egg-and-Dart Crown: Egg-and-dart crown molding is a decorative profile that features alternating egg-shaped and dart-shaped patterns. It is a classic choice that adds a touch of opulence to the kitchen.

3. Decorative Backsplash: A Focal Point for Style and Functionality

Extending the backsplash above the kitchen cabinets creates a stunning focal point and protects the walls from splashes and stains. You can choose from a wide range of materials, colors, and patterns to complement your kitchen's design.

Types of Decorative Backsplash Materials:

• Tile: Ceramic, porcelain, and glass tiles are popular choices for backsplashes. They are durable, easy to clean, and available in a vast array of colors and patterns.
• Natural Stone: Natural stone backsplashes, such as marble and granite, add a luxurious and timeless touch to the kitchen. They are heat-resistant and durable, but they require proper sealing.
• Metal: Metal backsplashes, such as stainless steel and copper, are easy to clean and maintain. They add a modern and industrial touch to the kitchen.

4. Lighting: Enhance Functionality and Ambiance

Lighting is crucial for both functionality and ambiance in the kitchen. Above-cabinet lighting can provide task lighting for cooking and prep work, while also creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Types of Above-Cabinet Lighting:

• Under-Cabinet Lighting: Under-cabinet lighting provides direct illumination for cooking surfaces and countertops. It is typically installed beneath the cabinets, facing downwards.
• Puck Lighting: Puck lights are small, recessed lighting fixtures that can be installed individually or in groups. They provide focused illumination and can be used to highlight specific areas, such as a stovetop or sink.
• Pendant Lighting: Pendant lights are suspended from the ceiling and can be used to provide ambient or task lighting. They come in a wide range of styles and can add a touch of personality to the kitchen.

5. Plants: Add Life and Freshness

Adding plants above the kitchen cabinets brings a touch of nature indoors and can help to purify the air. Choose plants that are tolerant of humidity and low light, such as succulents, herbs, or snake plants.

Benefits of Plants:

• Air Purification: Plants help to remove toxins from the air, improving indoor air quality.
• Stress Reduction: The presence of plants can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Plants add a touch of greenery and freshness to the kitchen, creating a more inviting space.

6. Artwork: Express Your Personality

Displaying artwork above the kitchen cabinets is a great way to add a personal touch and express your style. Choose pieces that complement your kitchen's decor and reflect your taste.

Tips for Choosing Artwork:

• Consider the size: The artwork should be proportionate to the space above the cabinets. Too large a piece will overwhelm the area, while too small a piece will be lost.
• Choose the right subject matter: Avoid artwork with food or drink themes, as this can create a cluttered look. Instead, opt for abstract patterns, landscapes, or figurative pieces.
• Experiment with framing: The frame can enhance the artwork and make it stand out. Consider using a frame that complements the kitchen's decor or the artwork itself.

7. Moldings and Trim: Add Architectural Interest

Moldings and trim add architectural interest to the kitchen and can help to define the space. They can be used to create a focal point above the cabinets or to frame windows and doors.

Types of Moldings and Trim:

• Cornice Molding: Cornice molding is a decorative molding that is used to create a border between the wall and the ceiling. It adds a touch of elegance and can help to elongate the appearance of the kitchen.
• Baseboard Molding: Baseboard molding is used to cover the joint between the wall and the floor. It adds a finished look to the kitchen and can help to protect the walls from damage.
• Chair Rail Molding: Chair rail molding is a horizontal molding that is placed about a third of the way up the wall. It can be used to divide the wall into two sections or to add a decorative touch.

8. Decorative Corbels: Support and Adornment

Decorative corbels are architectural elements that are used to support shelves or countertops while also adding a decorative touch. They come in a variety of styles, from simple to ornate.

Types of Decorative Corbels:

• Scroll Corbels: Scroll corbels feature a curved or scrolled design. They add a touch of elegance and movement to the kitchen.
• Animal Corbels: Animal corbels depict animals, such as lions, eagles, or horses. They add a touch of whimsy and character to the kitchen.
• Floral Corbels: Floral corbels feature floral motifs, such as roses, lilies, or vines. They add a touch of femininity and nature to the kitchen.

Tips and Tricks for Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets

• Choose a focal point: Decide what element you want to draw attention to above the cabinets. This could be a piece of artwork, a decorative backsplash, or an open shelf.
• Mix and match: Don't be afraid to mix different materials, colors, and textures to create a unique and personal look.
• Use the space wisely: Make the most of the vertical space above the cabinets by adding shelves, artwork, or plants.
• Keep it clean: Regularly clean the area above the cabinets to prevent dust and grime from accumulating.
• Accessorize sparingly: Avoid cluttering the space above the cabinets with too many accessories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding: Don't overload the space above the cabinets with too many items. This will create a cluttered and chaotic look.
• Poor lighting: Make sure the area above the cabinets is well-lit. Dim lighting can make the space look dark and uninviting.
• Uneven spacing: Take the time to measure and space the items above the cabinets evenly. Uneven spacing can create a messy and unpolished look.
• Ignoring function: Remember that the area above the cabinets should be both functional and stylish. Choose items that are practical and easy to access.
• Forgetting the walls: Don't neglect the wall space above the cabinets. Use artwork, paint, or wallpaper to add a touch of personality.

How to Decorate Above Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Approach

1. Determine the focal point: Decide what element you want to highlight above the cabinets.
2. Choose your materials: Select the materials that you want to use for the backsplash, shelves, or other decorative elements.
3. Plan the layout: Measure the space above the cabinets and decide how you want to arrange the items.
4. Install the backsplash: If you are installing a backsplash, do it before adding any shelves or other decorative elements.
5. Hang the shelves: If you are adding shelves, hang them after the backsplash is installed.
6. Add the decorative elements: Place the artwork, plants, or other decorative elements above the cabinets.
7. Accessorize sparingly: Add a few well-chosen accessories to complete the look.

Pros and Cons of Decorating Above Kitchen Cabinets

Pros:

• Adds personality and style: Decorating above kitchen cabinets allows you to express your personal style and add a unique touch to the kitchen.
• Enhances functionality: Shelves, drawers, and hooks can provide additional storage space and make it easier to access frequently used items.
• Protects walls: A backsplash can protect the walls from splashes and stains, especially above the stove or sink.