Most folks think the tops of kitchen cabinets are pointless. Here’s how to properly use them

Have you ever gazed upon the empty expanse above your kitchen cabinets and thought, “What a waste of space?” Well, fret no more! That seemingly useless area holds a treasure trove of potential, just waiting to be unearthed with a dash of creativity and some smart organization. Let’s explore ingenious ways to transform this forgotten zone into a functional and stylish haven.

1. Unleash the Power of Storage: Tuck Away Treasures Old and New

The tops of your cabinets are prime real estate for infrequently used items that clutter your precious countertop space. Think seasonal platters, seldom-needed appliances like the waffle iron, or those holiday serving platters that only emerge once a year. Invest in attractive baskets or bins to keep these essentials out of sight but within easy reach. For the environmentally conscious, consider woven baskets made from natural materials like seagrass or jute.

2. From Kitchen Staples to Heirlooms: Create a Curated Display

Do you have a passion for vintage kitchenware, or perhaps a collection of mismatched teacups? The space above your cabinets provides the perfect platform to showcase these prized possessions. Think of it as a mini art gallery for your culinary treasures. Arranging items with varying heights and textures adds visual interest. Pro tip: Employ risers or decorative boxes to create different levels for a dynamic display. However, remember that kitchens are inherently prone to grease and dust. Regularly wipe down your collectibles to maintain their beauty and prevent grime build-up. Antistatic dusting cloths can be helpful for this purpose.

3. Breathe Life into Your Kitchen: Introduce the Element of Greenery

A touch of greenery can work wonders in any space, and the kitchen is no exception. If your cabinets don’t reach the ceiling, this niche can be the ideal habitat for low-maintenance plants that flourish indoors. Species like snake plants, spider plants, or air plants are all excellent choices for their resilience and minimal need for attention. These pops of color will add a touch of life and vibrancy to your kitchen. For those seeking a touch of luxury, consider a hanging planter with a trailing philodendron or pothos cascading down from the cabinet tops.

4. Illuminate Your Kitchen: Unveiling the Power of Extra Lighting

Strategic lighting can significantly alter the ambience of your kitchen. Installing LED strips or small lamps above the cabinets can bathe the space in a warm, inviting glow, while simultaneously highlighting your carefully curated displays. This indirect lighting can also serve as a handy nightlight for late-night kitchen expeditions. Consider dimmable options to create the perfect mood for any occasion.

5. Celebrate the Seasons: Embrace the Spirit of Festivity

The space above your cabinets can transform into a festive haven throughout the year. String up twinkling fairy lights or drape colorful garlands during the holidays. For a touch of autumn flair, incorporate decorative gourds or miniature hay bales. These seasonal vignettes will keep your kitchen décor feeling fresh and add a touch of merriment to your celebrations.

6. Stock Up on Essentials: Creating a Haven for Bulk Items

For those who love to shop in bulk, the constant battle for storage space is a familiar foe. The area above your cabinets can be a lifesaver, providing a designated spot for those extra bags of rice, packs of paper towels, or bulky boxes of cereal. Invest in stackable containers or under-cabinet organizers to maintain a clutter-free aesthetic.

7. A Toast to Convenience: Fashioning a Wine Rack

Wine connoisseurs with limited storage space can rejoice! The tops of the cabinets can provide a handy spot to store your favorite bottles. While not ideal for long-term aging of expensive vintages, this space is perfectly suitable for everyday wines you plan to enjoy in the near future. For a touch of sophistication, display your bottles in a decorative wine rack mounted on the wall above the cabinets.

8. A Culinary Library at Your Fingertips: Curate Your Cookbook Collection

For passionate home chefs, displaying your cookbooks atop the cabinets is a marriage of form and function. Not only will your collection be readily accessible for inspiration, but it can also add a touch of personality to your kitchen décor. Lean larger, hardcover books against the wall for stability, and prop smaller paperbacks on decorative bookends for visual interest.

9. Unleash the Hidden Melody: Introducing a Discreet Sound System

Audiophiles, rejoice! The space above your cabinets can be a discreet haven for a small sound system or hidden speakers. This allows you to fill the kitchen with music while keeping your tech out of sight. Consider weatherproof