Step 2: Decide on a Purpose
Determine what function this space will serve. Your decision could include:
- Hidden storage (for items you rarely use)
- Decorative display (to add charm or personality)
- Seasonal rotation zone (for holiday items or décor)
- Mini library (for cookbooks or vintage kitchen literature)
You can mix and match purposes, but having a plan helps avoid clutter.
Step 3: Choose the Right Storage Solutions
Depending on your goal, choose from these solutions:
✅ For Storage:
- Woven or decorative baskets: These look tidy and can hide miscellaneous items.
- Clear plastic bins: Useful if you want to see contents at a glance.
- Labeled boxes: Great for keeping seasonal or seldom-used items organized.
✅ For Display:
- Vases or planters (real or faux)
- Framed art or vintage signs
- Decorative plates or ceramics
- Cookbooks with visually appealing spines
Group in odd numbers and vary height and texture for visual interest.
Step 4: Measure and Arrange Carefully
Before hauling anything up, take these steps:
- Measure the height and depth of the cabinet top.
- Ensure baskets or décor fit the space and don’t touch the ceiling.
- Arrange items on the floor first to experiment with layouts.
When placing items:
- Put larger items in the back and smaller in the front.
- Group items in “zones” (e.g., baking, décor, cookbooks).
- Don’t overfill — negative space helps prevent visual clutter.
Step 5: Add Lighting (Optional but Impactful)
Lighting above your cabinets can turn them from storage zones into design features.
Options include:
- LED strip lights (easy to install, energy-efficient)
- Puck lights (small spotlights that highlight decorative elements)
- Battery-operated fairy lights (for cozy ambiance)
Mount the lights towards the back to avoid glare and create a soft glow.
Step 6: Maintain and Refresh
Like any other part of your kitchen, the cabinet tops need occasional attention.
- Dust and wipe every couple of months.
- Refresh décor or rotate seasonal items to keep it feeling updated.
- Review what’s stored to ensure it’s still useful.
Bonus Ideas for Styling Above Kitchen Cabinets
Here are some creative themes and styles to inspire your setup:
- Rustic Charm: Galvanized buckets, faux greenery, vintage signs.
- Modern Minimalist: Black and white frames, monochrome baskets.
- Farmhouse Style: White pitchers, antique jars, wooden crates.
- Eclectic & Boho: Colorful pottery, tribal masks, woven trays.
Final Thoughts
The space above your kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to be a dead zone. Whether you need more storage or want to add flair to your cooking space, using this area effectively can bring order and personality to your kitchen. With a bit of thoughtful design and planning, what was once overlooked can become an integral part of your home’s heart.
Would you like layout ideas or a visual example of how to style this space?
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