13 Clever Above Kitchen Cabinet Ideas to Add Extra Storage or Style It Beautifully
That awkward space above kitchen cabinets can be a real eyesore, especially if you love home décor. It’s often left empty, cluttered, or just plain forgotten.
But with a little creativity, this overlooked spot can become one of the most functional or stylish features in your kitchen.
In this blog post, I’m going to share some helpful above kitchen cabinet ideas to help you either increase storage or decorate that area in a beautiful, purposeful way.
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What to Put on the Top of Kitchen Cabinets
Let’s be very honest.
If you’re not going to clean it often, it’s better to leave the top of your kitchen cabinets empty.
This area collects a lot of dust and grease, and anything you put up there will look dirty if it’s not cleaned regularly.
A simple way to keep it neat is to place a layer of butter paper or newspaper on top. It will catch most of the dirt, and you can just replace the paper a few times a year.
But if you want to decorate or store things up there and are ready to keep it clean, make sure to add it to your daily or weekly kitchen cleaning.
Also, keep a small step ladder (like a telescope ladder or portable step ladder nearby. It will help you reach the top easily and clean it along with the rest of your kitchen.
It’s best to keep an extendable duster and a good degreaser hidden above the cabinet or somewhere around!
Above Kitchen Cabinet Storage Ideas
Need extra storage? The space above your kitchen cabinets can be a great spot to keep things you don’t use every day. With the right bins or baskets, it can look neat and stay organized.
1. Stretch the Cabinets to the Ceiling
If you’re renovating your kitchen, go for a design where the cabinets reach all the way to the ceiling. It’s one of the best ways to use that space.
With closed cabinets, you won’t have to worry about dust or grease, and you can store items you rarely use up on the top shelves.
2. Bespoke Shelves
If your kitchen cabinets don’t reach the ceiling, custom-made (bespoke) shelves can fill that space beautifully.
These shelves are tailored to fit perfectly above your cabinets, covering the top gap and giving it a built-in look.
You can use them to display your favorite decor pieces; like vases, framed art, or cookbooks or turn them into extra storage for baskets, jars, or lesser-used kitchen items.
3. Use Wicker Baskets
Wicker baskets are a clever way to create hidden storage above kitchen cabinets while adding a warm, natural texture to your space.
They’re ideal for storing items you don’t need daily, like holiday platters, spare linens, or pantry overflow.
This simple upgrade keeps your kitchen looking tidy and thoughtfully styled.
Be sure to invest in wicker baskets with lids so they don’t fill up with dust.
4. Display Books
If you love collecting cookbooks or have pretty books you’d like to show off, try using them as storage above kitchen cabinets.
This idea adds charm and character to your kitchen while keeping the books easily accessible.
You can stack them neatly or arrange them by color for a fun visual touch.
5. Add a Floating Shelf
A floating shelf above the kitchen cabinets is a great way to add another layer of storage. It creates extra space for jars, baskets, or decorative items while giving your kitchen a more styled look.
This setup works especially well in kitchens with high ceilings. Just keep in mind that open shelves can collect dust and kitchen grime over time.
Regular cleaning or using storage containers can help keep everything looking neat and manageable.
6. Install Cabinets Over Cabinets
One of the most efficient ways to use the space and add storage above your kitchen cabinets is by adding a second row of upper cabinets.
This “cabinet over cabinet” design blends seamlessly with your existing layout and gives you enclosed storage that looks neat and built-in.
It’s perfect for storing rarely used items, seasonal dishes, or extra pantry supplies. Plus, since everything stays hidden behind doors, there’s no dusting required; just more space that works hard for you.
Above Kitchen Cabinets Decor Ideas
The space above your kitchen cabinets isn’t just for storage; it’s also a perfect spot to add a little personality to your kitchen. With the right decor, you can turn that often-overlooked area into a stylish feature.
7. Add Wallpaper
A fun and easy way to decorate the space above your kitchen cabinets is by adding wallpaper.
It can bring color, pattern, and a fresh look to your kitchen without taking up any room. Choose a print that matches your kitchen style; floral, modern, or even something playful.
Wallpaper on top draws the eye up and makes the kitchen feel more complete and unique.
8. Place Plants
Adding greenery above your cabinets brings life and color to the kitchen. You can grow easy herbs like basil or rosemary, or choose a low‑care trailing plant such as a money plant.
If real plants feel like too much work, use good‑quality artificial ones but remember to dust or wipe them now and then so they always look fresh.
9. Display Art
The space above your kitchen cabinets is a great spot to show off some art.
You can lean framed prints, small paintings, or even vintage signs against the wall to add personality and charm.
It’s an easy way to bring color and style into the kitchen without hanging anything. Choose pieces that match your kitchen’s theme.
10. Lighting
Adding lights above your kitchen cabinets is a great way to make the space look modern and bright. It adds a warm glow in the evenings and highlights whatever you’ve placed on top.
LED strip lights or small spotlights work well and are easy to install.
Since they’re out of reach, you don’t have to clean them often, just enjoy the soft, stylish touch they bring to your kitchen.
11. Show Off Some Vintage Decor
If you love hunting for unique vintage finds, the space above your kitchen cabinets is the perfect spot to display them.
Think old tins, glass jars, antique kitchen scales, or classic pitchers. These pieces add charm, character, and a bit of nostalgia to your kitchen.
Group similar items together or mix and match for a collected look.
12. Bowls and Dishes
If you have some extra bowls, platters, or dishes lying around, the space above your kitchen cabinets can be a great spot to keep them.
Just place a few neatly to fill the space and add a practical touch. This works well for pieces you don’t use every day but still want to keep handy.
13. Mix and Match Decor
You don’t need a perfect theme to decorate above your kitchen cabinets.
Try mixing different pieces like small baskets, vases, jars, signs, or plants to create a look that feels warm and collected.
Playing with different heights, textures, and colors can make the space more interesting and attractive.
Decorating the space above your kitchen cabinets is a fun way to add charm, style, and even some extra storage to your kitchen.
Whether you’re displaying plants, art, vintage pieces, or everyday items, the key is to keep it looking neat and balanced.
Try to match your decor with the rest of your kitchen for a more put-together feel. And if you prefer a clutter-free look, closed storage like baskets or boxes can be a great option to keep everything tidy and hidden.
