Most People Believe the Tops of Kitchen Cabinets Serve No Purpose — Here’s How to Use Them Effectively
In many kitchens, the space above the cabinets often becomes a forgotten zone — a dusty ledge that does little more than collect grime. But this unassuming space actually holds untapped potential for both functionality and aesthetics. With a little creativity and strategic planning, you can turn the tops of your kitchen cabinets into an organized, stylish, and practical part of your home.
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to transforming this overlooked area into something truly useful and beautiful.
Why Use the Space Above Kitchen Cabinets?
Before diving into the how, let’s talk about why you should care about this space. In smaller kitchens, every inch counts. The tops of cabinets provide a valuable opportunity for:
- Additional storage
- Aesthetic enhancement
- Seasonal decoration
- Showcasing personal style
Whether your goal is to declutter countertops, store infrequently used items, or simply make your kitchen feel more “finished,” this space can help.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Tops of Kitchen Cabinets Effectively
Step 1: Clean the Space Thoroughly
Most tops of cabinets haven’t been cleaned in a while — or ever. Start by:
- Using a step stool or ladder to safely reach the top.
- Vacuuming or sweeping up loose dust.
- Wiping with a cloth and a gentle degreaser to remove sticky buildup.
- Letting the area dry completely.
Pro Tip: Lay down wax paper, shelf liner, or even decorative wrapping paper to keep it cleaner in the future.
Step 2: Decide on a Purpose
Determine what function this space will serve. Your decision could include:
- Hidden storage (for items you rarely use)
- Decorative display (to add charm or personality)
- Seasonal rotation zone (for holiday items or décor)
- Mini library (for cookbooks or vintage kitchen literature)
You can mix and match purposes, but having a plan helps avoid clutter.
Step 3: Choose the Right Storage Solutions
Depending on your goal, choose from these solutions:
✅ For Storage:
- Woven or decorative baskets: These look tidy and can hide miscellaneous items.
- Clear plastic bins: Useful if you want to see contents at a glance.
- Labeled boxes: Great for keeping seasonal or seldom-used items organized.
✅ For Display:
- Vases or planters (real or faux)
- Framed art or vintage signs
- Decorative plates or ceramics
- Cookbooks with visually appealing spines
Group in odd numbers and vary height and texture for visual interest.
Step 4: Measure and Arrange Carefully
Before hauling anything up, take these steps:
- Measure the height and depth of the cabinet top.
- Ensure baskets or décor fit the space and don’t touch the ceiling.
- Arrange items on the floor first to experiment with layouts.
When placing items:
- Put larger items in the back and smaller in the front.
- Group items in “zones” (e.g., baking, décor, cookbooks).
- Don’t overfill — negative space helps prevent visual clutter.
Step 5: Add Lighting (Optional but Impactful)
Lighting above your cabinets can turn them from storage zones into design features.
Options include:
- LED strip lights (easy to install, energy-efficient)
- Puck lights (small spotlights that highlight decorative elements)
- Battery-operated fairy lights (for cozy ambiance)
Mount the lights towards the back to avoid glare and create a soft glow.
Step 6: Maintain and Refresh
Like any other part of your kitchen, the cabinet tops need occasional attention.
- Dust and wipe every couple of months.
- Refresh décor or rotate seasonal items to keep it feeling updated.
- Review what’s stored to ensure it’s still useful.
Bonus Ideas for Styling Above Kitchen Cabinets
Here are some creative themes and styles to inspire your setup:
- Rustic Charm: Galvanized buckets, faux greenery, vintage signs.
- Modern Minimalist: Black and white frames, monochrome baskets.
- Farmhouse Style: White pitchers, antique jars, wooden crates.
- Eclectic & Boho: Colorful pottery, tribal masks, woven trays.
Final Thoughts
The space above your kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to be a dead zone. Whether you need more storage or want to add flair to your cooking space, using this area effectively can bring order and personality to your kitchen. With a bit of thoughtful design and planning, what was once overlooked can become an integral part of your home’s heart.
Would you like layout ideas or a visual example of how to style this space?