If you have never considered the space above the upper cabinets useful, the collection here will open your eyes to its functionality.
Since that space is usually harder to access, most of the time, it becomes a display of seasonal decorations, art pieces, plants, and many more. Let’s go through 15 Clever Storage and Decor Ideas for the Above Kitchen Cabinets: Maximizing Unused Space.
1. Open Shelves For Airy Feel
If there is a narrow space above the lower cabinets where installing cupboards is not a good idea, mount open shelves.
One, two, or three shelves, depending on the blank space in height, will be perfect for storing your beautiful porcelain collection, jars with herbs and pasta, or seasonal decoration displays.
2. Dowel With S-hooks And A Shelf
A dowel with hooks is a great way to utilize vertical space above or below upper cabinets. Of course, you can’t use it for heavy items but it works perfectly for storage of cutting boards, cups, towels or decorative items.
Choose the dowel and the hooks in a contrasting metal finish or in a bright color that will create interest.
3. Cupboards Without Doors
If you like the open shelving design but want to store more and heavier items, then go for upper cabinets without doors.
They function as the standard cupboards but enhance the airiness with their open design. The storage is visible in this option, hence everything must be well organized and neatly stored.
We recommend jars for loose ingredients and food supplies such as pasta, spices, and dry herbs. All the rest can be stored in identical baskets for an appealing overall look.
4. Floating Shelves Above The Sink
If the kitchen is small and occupied with cabinets for storage, you can dedicate a small vertical space for open shelves to display beautiful decorations.
In this kitchen decor idea, the shelves are floating type and are located above the sink which is a pretty functional and convenient spot.
5. Vintage Shelves Into A Niche
The location of this vertical space for open shelving has been formed like a niche with a vintage look.
The shiplap on the wall and the copper dowels added to the shelves complete the rustic look of the display for antiques.
6. A Combination Of Closed And Open Shelves
The upper cabinets above the sink are quipped with open shelf units that give the space character to the displayed items.
The vertical side has become a lovely bookshelf for the storage of culinary books. The special horizontal shelves for storage are the place for lovely and unique housewares sets.
7. Shelves As Extension Of The Cupboards
The designers of this kitchen have added upper cabinets that end at the ceiling and open shelves from the same wood texture as the cabinets for a continuous and harmonious look.
Wood is an important part of this kitchen’s design, which aims to add comfort and warmth to the otherwise modern kitchen.
8. Shelves Up To The Ceiling
This open-shelf unit has been so much needed in the overall kitchen layout to prevent an overwhelming look caused by the upper cabinets up to the ceiling.
The light wood color, size, and number of shelves create a functional and attractive display. Access to these shelves is easy, and you can take advantage of that by storing food that you cook most often. Or, the shelves can be the place for decorative accents, vases, and cookbooks.
9. Cabinets With Glass Doors
@Creekstone Designs Remodeling
If you have planned for open cabinets or shelves over the regular upper cabinets, you may consider equipping part of them with glass doors. That will create a united look between the two types of storage furniture.
In this kitchen design, the open cabinets are used for storage of a collection of porcelain bowls which is beautifully emphasized with built-in lights.
10. Display Art On Open Shelves
@UB Kitchens – Kitchen Design Cabinets
Art in the kitchen doesn’t sound like a typical interior hack, but check out this inspiring kitchen idea! Art can find its place in this busy room. The best place for art pieces is above the cabinets.
There, the art accents are protected from water splashes or dirt from cooking, also they can make a bold statement.
11. Corner Cupboards And A Shelf Over The Window
@Custom Kitchens by John Wilkins, Inc.
In this small kitchen space is precious, hence every vertical inch is well utilized.
The upper cabinets are tall up to the ceiling providing maximum storage space and also a visual illusion for a bigger room. The windowsill and a shelf over the window become displays of plants and art pieces to give the kitchen a homely feel.
12. Storage Over The Cabinets
The rustic atmosphere of this open-concept kitchen and the architectural peculiarity of the tall ceilings sets the perfect backdrop for unique wood cabinets. The two-color cabinetry reflects the traditional design of the real wood furniture in the past.
The top of the upper cabinets is used as a display of coastal decor pieces with a vintage look. The lake-house atmosphere is enhanced by blue rattan armchairs, lanterns and sea-themed paintings.
13. Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Cabinets and Decorations
@British Standard by Plain English
The traditional farmhouse cabinetry stands out against the laminate paneling on the walls. The white color of the cabinets reflects a contemporary trend and makes an appealing blend with the contemporary appliances.
The top of the upper cabinets and the open shelves with corbel supports are turned into dishware displays. Thus, porcelain cups, pitchers, bowls, etc. are not only a functional part of the tableware but also decoration.
14. Inclined Space For Storage Of Sculptures
The small and strangely shaped space above the upper cabinets in this kitchen idea is too specific to be used as a regular storage place. The homeowners have chosen to display a small collection of farmhouse sculptures in white and brown. This farmhouse accent reflects two of the most used natural materials- wood and clay.
This decor idea affects the overall contemporary decor, bringing a touch of warmth, farmhouse authenticity, and unique character.
15. Enhance The Kitchen Style With Decor Accents On The Top Of The Cabinets
This beach style kitchen can instantly make you feel better and more relaxed with the blue colored cabinets and vintage decorations.
The upper cabinets are staggered in height which creates interest. This tailor-made design is emphasized with beatiful farmhouse decorations that have antique value.
They are placed on top of the upper cabinets as if the cabinets were made for this purpose.
