How to Decorate Over Kitchen Cabinets to Maximize Space

C. Use Artwork

Adding artwork above your kitchen cabinets can elevate the style and personality of your kitchen. Artwork not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers an opportunity to showcase your taste and creativity. In this section, we will explore how to select artwork that complements your kitchen style, tips for hanging artwork securely, and ideas for creating a captivating gallery wall above the cabinets.

1. Selecting Artwork that Complements the Kitchen Style

When choosing artwork for the space above your kitchen cabinets, consider the following factors to ensure it harmonizes with your kitchen style:

• Theme and Color Palette: Select artwork that aligns with the overall theme and color scheme of your kitchen. Whether it’s modern, rustic, or eclectic, the artwork should complement the existing decor.
• Subject and Style: Choose pieces that resonate with your personal preferences and reflect your style. Consider artwork featuring food and culinary themes, abstract designs, or botanical illustrations, depending on your kitchen’s ambiance.
• Size and Proportion: Take into account the available space above your cabinets and choose artwork that fits well without overwhelming the area or appearing too small.

Note: Consider using water-resistant or laminated artwork to protect it from potential moisture or grease in the kitchen environment.

2. Hanging Artwork Securely

To ensure your artwork remains securely in place above your kitchen cabinets, follow these tips for hanging:

• Sturdy Hardware: Use appropriate hardware, such as heavy-duty hooks or brackets, to support the weight of the artwork.
• Proper Placement: Determine the desired position for the artwork and mark the placement before installing the hardware to avoid unnecessary holes.
• Leveling: Use a level to ensure the artwork is straight and aligned with the cabinets.
• Safety Precautions: If you live in an earthquake-prone area, consider using earthquake-resistant hooks or adhesive strips to secure the artwork.

Note: Consult a professional if you are unsure about the weight-bearing capacity of your cabinets or require assistance with hanging heavy or valuable artwork.

3. Creating a Gallery Wall Above the Cabinets

A gallery wall can be an engaging and visually captivating way to display multiple pieces of artwork above your kitchen cabinets. Consider the following ideas:

• Mix and Match: Combine different sizes, shapes, and types of artwork to create an eclectic and dynamic display.
• Theme or Color Cohesion: Arrange the artwork based on a specific theme or color palette to create a cohesive and harmonious gallery wall.
• Spacing and Balance: Maintain consistent spacing between the artwork pieces to ensure a balanced and visually pleasing arrangement.
• Layering and Overlapping: Experiment with layering or overlapping artwork to add depth and dimension to the gallery wall.

Note: Use adhesive picture-hanging strips or hooks for easy rearrangement and flexibility when creating a gallery wall.

D. Add Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial in the kitchen, not only for functionality but also for enhancing the overall ambiance and highlighting your decorative elements. In this section, we will explore the importance of proper lighting in the kitchen, how to install under-cabinet lighting, and the creative use of string lights or LED strips to illuminate the space above your kitchen cabinets.

1. Importance of Proper Lighting in the Kitchen

Good lighting in the kitchen is essential for several reasons:

• Task Lighting: Adequate lighting ensures sufficient illumination for food preparation, cooking, and other kitchen tasks, enhancing safety and efficiency.
• Ambient Lighting: Well-balanced ambient lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere and sets the mood for the kitchen.
• Highlighting Decor: Proper lighting showcases your decorative items, including artwork, plants, and other objects displayed above the cabinets, adding depth and visual interest to the space.
• Enhanced Visibility: Effective lighting reduces shadows and dark corners, improving visibility and making the kitchen space feel more inviting.

Note: Consider using energy-efficient LED lighting options to minimize energy consumption and increase the longevity of your light fixtures.

2. Installing Under-Cabinet Lighting

Under-cabinet lighting is an excellent way to add both functionality and aesthetic appeal to your kitchen decor. Here’s how you can install under-cabinet lighting:

1. Choose the Lighting Type: Select from various options such as LED strip lights, puck lights, or linear light fixtures based on your preferences and the desired lighting effect.
2. Plan the Placement: Determine the ideal location for the under-cabinet lighting. Measure the length of the cabinets and consider evenly spacing the lights.
3. Prepare the Installation: Clean the area where the lighting will be installed and ensure it is free from dust and debris. Gather the necessary tools and equipment.
4. Install the Lighting: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mount the lights securely beneath the cabinets. Use appropriate screws, adhesive strips, or mounting clips.
5. Connect the Wiring: If required, connect the lighting fixtures to a power source. Consult an electrician if you’re unfamiliar with electrical work.

Note: For a seamless and professional installation, it’s recommended to hire a licensed electrician.

3. Utilizing String Lights or LED Strips

String lights or LED strips can add a touch of whimsy and warmth to the space above your kitchen cabinets. Consider the following ideas:

• Flexible String Lights: Wrap string lights around decorative objects or drape them along the top of the cabinets to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
• LED Strips: Install LED strips along the edges or recesses above the cabinets to provide indirect lighting that accentuates the architectural features and decor.
• Colorful Options: Explore string lights or LED strips that offer various color options to match your kitchen’s theme or create a festive ambiance for special occasions.

Note: Ensure that the string lights or LED strips you choose are suitable for use in a kitchen environment and follow safety guidelines when handling electrical components.

E. Use Cookbooks

Cookbooks not only serve as a valuable resource for culinary inspiration but can also be utilized as decorative elements to enhance the charm and personality of your kitchen. In this section, we will explore how to display cookbooks as decorative pieces, tips for organizing them for easy access, and the incorporation of a cookbook stand or shelf.

1. Displaying Cookbooks as Decorative Elements

Showcasing your collection of cookbooks above the kitchen cabinets can add a touch of warmth and personalization to the space. Consider the following ideas for displaying cookbooks:

• Stacked Arrangement: Arrange a few selected cookbooks in an attractive stack, with the larger ones at the bottom and smaller ones on top. This creates a visually appealing display.
• Color Coordination: Arrange the cookbooks based on their cover colors to create a cohesive and eye-catching arrangement.
• Bookends or Decorative Objects: Use bookends or place decorative objects such as vases, figurines, or small plants alongside the cookbooks to add visual interest and stability.

Note: Ensure that the cookbooks are placed securely to prevent them from falling or getting damaged.

2. Organizing Cookbooks for Easy Access

Efficient organization of your cookbooks ensures easy access whenever you need to find a recipe. Consider the following tips:

• Categorize by Cuisine or Theme: Arrange the cookbooks based on their cuisine type or theme, such as baking, international cuisine, or healthy recipes.
• Alphabetical Order: Sort the cookbooks alphabetically by the author’s name or recipe names, making it easier to locate specific books.
• Frequently Used Books Within Reach: Place the cookbooks you frequently refer to within easy reach, ensuring convenience during cooking and meal planning.

Note: Consider using bookshelf dividers or labeled organizers to keep the cookbooks neatly arranged.

3. Incorporating a Cookbook Stand or Shelf

A dedicated cookbook stand or shelf can not only keep your cookbooks organized but also provide a designated space for them to be displayed prominently. Consider the following options:

• Cookbook Stand: Use a stylish cookbook stand to hold open the pages of your favorite recipes while you’re cooking, allowing for easy reference without cluttering the counter space.
• Wall-Mounted Shelf: Install a wall-mounted shelf above the kitchen cabinets to create a designated area for displaying your cookbooks. This keeps them accessible while maximizing vertical space.

Note: Ensure that the cookbook stand or shelf is securely installed to prevent accidents or damage to the cabinets.

F. Add Decorative Objects

Adding decorative objects above your kitchen cabinets is a wonderful way to infuse personality, style, and visual interest into the space. In this section, we will explore how to choose decorative objects that match your kitchen theme, tips for arranging them in an aesthetically pleasing manner, and the incorporation of seasonal or themed decor.

1. Choosing Decorative Objects That Match the Kitchen Theme

When selecting decorative objects for the space above your kitchen cabinets, consider choosing items that complement the overall theme and style of your kitchen. Here are some ideas:

• Ceramic or Glass Jars: Use decorative jars to display colorful spices, dried herbs, or kitchen essentials that add a pop of color and texture.
• Artwork or Wall Hangings: Hang artwork, framed prints, or wall hangings that reflect your personal taste and coordinate with the color scheme and design elements of your kitchen.
• Plants or Greenery: Incorporate potted plants, herbs, or artificial greenery to bring a touch of nature and freshness to the space.

Note: Ensure that the decorative objects are suitable for the kitchen environment and can withstand any potential exposure to heat, moisture, or grease.

2. Arranging Objects in an Aesthetically Pleasing Manner

The way you arrange the decorative objects can greatly impact the visual appeal of the space. Consider the following tips for arranging them in an aesthetically pleasing manner:

• Balance and Symmetry: Create a sense of balance by arranging objects of similar size or visual weight on both sides of the cabinets. This adds a pleasing symmetry to the display.
• Variety in Height: Vary the heights of the objects to add visual interest and prevent a monotonous look. Use taller objects towards the back and shorter ones towards the front.
• Grouping and Layering: Group similar objects together, such as a collection of vintage plates or a set of decorative vases. Layer objects by placing smaller items in front of larger ones to create depth.

Note: Regularly dust and clean the decorative objects to maintain their appearance and prevent the accumulation of dirt or grease.

3. Incorporating Seasonal or Themed Decor

To keep your kitchen decor fresh and exciting, consider incorporating seasonal or themed decorative elements above the cabinets. Here are some ideas:

• Holiday Decor: Display festive decor such as garlands, ornaments, or seasonal figurines to celebrate holidays and add a touch of joy to your kitchen.
• Themed Collections: Rotate decorative objects based on themes such as coastal, farmhouse, or vintage. This allows you to change the look and feel of your kitchen periodically.

Note: Store seasonal or themed decor items properly when not in use to keep them in good condition.