Do you ever look at that empty space above your kitchen cabinets and wonder if it could be put to better use?
And if it can, how?
The most obvious would be to simply use that space as an additional shelf. Most homeowners would love some extra storage space in the kitchen, and you’re probably no different.
Alternatively, you can add a little creativity to your kitchen cabinet design and turn that area into something that looks as good as it is practical. While the tops of your cabinets may not be at natural eye level, decorating them will leave you covered in case any guests take a deep interest in your kitchen décor.
You can also combine the practical with the decorative and add something to your cabinet tops that achieves both. The choice, as always, is yours.
practical options
Space above kitchen cabinets is a great place to put larger, less frequently used items like large soup pots, slow cookers, blenders, and other appliances.
If kitchen storage space is tight, it can also be a good place to store longer-lasting ingredients that don’t require refrigeration. Adding baskets for items like onions, potatoes or garlic can be a real space saver in other areas of the kitchen.
If you plan to use the space above your kitchen cabinets solely for storage, you might consider installing a curtain over them. This would allow you to store just about anything in there without compromising the overall design of the cabinet.
decorative options
There are plenty of decorative options for space above cabinets that can complement your cabinet design. The most obvious are some pretty paintings or other artwork in colors that coordinate with the cabinetry and wallpaper.
Fine china, silverware, or ceramics can also be placed on top of cabinets for an elegant look, while other options can provide a more rustic feel. Vintage-style watering cans or farm-themed items can often be found at thrift stores or at craft fairs and garage sales.
Potted plants are another favorite for the above cabinet design. Fresh greenery will liven up your kitchen like nothing else can, while artificial plants provide more comfort and a longer lasting addition to your cabinet design.
Practical and decorative options.
If you can’t decide whether to be practical or decorative when using the space above your kitchen cabinets, it could be both.
Consider using the space above your cabinets to store breakable and fragile items that you need to keep safe. It may seem like a strange idea to keep breakable items up high, but this will keep them out of the normal hustle and bustle, as well as out of the reach of children.
Ornate or handcrafted baskets are another option that can enhance your cabinet design. You have many options, from basic wire frame baskets that allow you to see the contents to solid baskets, often made of attractive natural wood.
If you’re feeling really inventive, consider some homemade storage containers for kitchen items and anything else you need to store. You can attach whiteboard labels to the front and write or draw pictures of the content.
Utilizing the space above your cabinets is a great way to maximize space in your kitchen while complementing the design of the cabinet itself.
You could go purely practical and store items out of necessity. It could go decidedly decorative and make a personal design statement. Or you can combine the two and enhance the look of your kitchen while adding storage space too.