15 Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor Ideas for a Chic Loo

You know what I’m talking about, that awkward space between your cabinets and the ceiling.

For the longest time, mine collected nothing but dust and the occasional forgotten Christmas mug. But trust me, once I figured out what to do with it, it became one of my favorite decor spots in the whole kitchen.

You don’t need to be an interior designer or spend a fortune. You just need a little creativity and a dash of personality, and you’ll turn that empty area into something you actually enjoy looking at.

So, grab your coffee (or wine, no judgment here), and let’s explore some ideas that will make your kitchen feel more finished, more you, and a whole lot more charming.

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Why Decorating Above Your Kitchen Cabinets Actually Matters

It might feel like a minor detail, but that upper space is prime real estate in your kitchen. Leaving it bare makes your kitchen feel incomplete, and it’s honestly a missed opportunity to bring some warmth and style into the heart of your home.

Here’s why you should care:

It adds personality. That dead space becomes a reflection of your style.
It draws the eye upward. Especially helpful in smaller kitchens to create the illusion of height.
It’s a hidden storage gem. Functional decor can double as storage.
It makes the space feel intentional. No more “meh” zone between the cabinets and ceiling.

1. Basket Storage with a Twist

I’m obsessed with baskets, especially the woven kind. I placed a few large ones above my cabinets to hide seasonal kitchen items.

Pick baskets with lids so you can actually use them for storage.
Vary the sizes slightly for a more natural look.
Add a plant or framed photo between them to break it up visually.

2. Faux Greenery That Stays Fresh

Let’s be real, no one wants to climb up there to water plants. So, I went with high-quality faux greenery, and it completely transformed the vibe.

Choose trailing plants like ivy or eucalyptus.
Mix greenery with ceramic pots or rustic tins.
Stick to muted green tones to keep it looking realistic.

3. Vintage Finds That Tell a Story

I’ve slowly been collecting vintage kitchen tools and milk bottles from flea markets, and they look amazing grouped up top.

Go for weathered, old-school kitchenware.
Try vintage cookbooks, enamel pitchers, or metal tins.
Group items in odd numbers for balance.

4. Art Prints & Framed Quotes

If you’ve got a favorite food quote or a small print that makes you smile, this is the place for it.

Use lightweight frames for safety.
Layer frames in different heights for dimension.
Try chalkboard-style prints or black-and-white food photography.

5. Seasonal Swaps for Year-Round Style

This is one of my secrets. I switch up my above-cabinet decor with the seasons, it keeps things fresh without a full kitchen revamp.

Pumpkins and copper in fall
Garlands and lanterns in winter
Lemons and vases in summer
Pastels and greenery in spring

6. Oversized Letters or Signs

You’ve probably seen those giant “EAT” signs or cute rustic messages. I caved and got one, and it’s a showstopper.

Choose chunky letters in wood or metal.
Keep messages short and bold, think “BAKE” or “HOME.”
Mix in a small plant or candle for texture.

7. Layered Cutting Boards and Trays

Above my cabinets is where retired cutting boards go to retire beautifully.

Choose different shapes and wood tones.
Lean them casually against the wall.
Add a ceramic jug or glass bottle in front to soften the look.

8. Display Your Pretty Dishware

You know those special dishes you only use at Christmas? Give them a little spotlight.

Use plate stands or plate racks.
Stack dishes with linens in between to avoid chips.
Add a teacup stack or gravy boat for charm.

9. A Row of Matching Vases

Matching doesn’t have to mean boring. I went with glass vases in different heights, and they catch the light so nicely.

Stick to a color theme (all clear, all white, etc.).
Use fairy lights inside for extra glow.
Group in odd numbers, and add a faux flower here and there.

10. Cookbooks You Rarely Use (But Look Cute)

I collect cookbooks like trophies. Above the cabinets is their well-deserved throne.

Stack horizontally for a casual look.
Add a bookend or small decorative item beside.
Dust occasionally, this is their quiet retirement.

11. Antique Kitchen Scales

Found an old scale at a thrift shop and knew instantly where it was going.

Pair with vintage fruit crates or mason jars.
Place toward a corner for balance.
Use as a pedestal for a little ceramic hen or potted herb.

12. Ceramic or Porcelain Collections

I inherited some blue-and-white porcelain from my grandmother, now it lives above my cabinets and sparks joy daily.

Group pieces by style or color.
Place plates upright and bowls stacked.
Mix in some greenery to break up the white.

13. Lanterns or Candle Holders

One day, I popped a lantern up there for fun, and it never left.

Go for different sizes and finishes (rustic metal, black iron, etc.).
Add battery-operated candles for safety.
Create small clusters in groups of two or three.

14. Wicker Trays or Decorative Panels

Wicker trays look casual but add great texture. Bonus, they’re super lightweight.

Use round or rectangular shapes depending on your cabinet height.
Layer one in front of another slightly askew.
Combine with vintage pitchers or wooden utensils.

15. Rustic Farmhouse Crates

Farmhouse girl at heart here. I love stacking a few small crates with rolled napkins and faux herbs.

Paint them in neutral tones like cream or gray.
Add stenciled words like “Pantry” or “Spices.”
Stack slightly off-center for a relaxed feel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Decorating above your cabinets is fun, but it’s also easy to go overboard. Here are a few no-nos I’ve learned the hard way:

Don’t overcrowd. Less is more, leave breathing room.
Avoid themes that clash. If your kitchen’s modern, steer clear of all-out farmhouse.
Watch the dust factor. Avoid hard-to-clean fabrics or open baskets that just collect grime.
Stay away from breakables. Anything up high needs to be secure and lightweight.
Skip the fake food. Faux bread loaves or plastic grapes? Please no.

FAQ: Above Kitchen Cabinet Decor

What’s the best way to keep decor from falling?

Stick to lightweight items and use museum putty or adhesive strips to keep things in place. Also, avoid anything fragile unless it’s tucked in safely.

Should I decorate all the way across?

Not necessarily. Sometimes a few well-placed clusters look better than a full-length display. Leave space for the eye to rest, it creates visual interest.

Can I use the space for storage?

Absolutely! Just hide it in pretty baskets or decorative boxes. It’s the perfect place for items you don’t use every day.

Do I need to match my kitchen theme?

You don’t need a perfect match, but the decor should complement your kitchen’s vibe. If you’ve got sleek modern cabinets, maybe skip the vintage milk jug.

How often should I update the decor?

Totally up to you, but swapping things seasonally keeps your kitchen feeling fresh and festive.

Final Thoughts: Make It Yours

Decorating above your kitchen cabinets isn’t about perfection, it’s about personality. Pick pieces that make you smile, reflect your style, and make your kitchen feel more like home. You don’t need to follow every trend, just do what feels right for your space.

You’ve got this, friend. And hey, if all else fails, stick a cute basket up there and call it a day.