What should I put in the space above my kitchen cabinets? You can fill the space above your kitchen cabinets with decorative items, storage solutions, or even create a built-in look with a kitchen cabinet bulkhead filler. Filling in the gap between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling enhances your kitchen’s aesthetic and offers practical benefits.
The area above kitchen cabinets is often an overlooked space. It can become a dust collector or, with a little thought and effort, a stylish and functional part of your kitchen. This guide explores various ways to fill in space above kitchen cabinets, offering a range of ideas from simple DIY projects to professional installations. We’ll cover how to maximize space above cabinets and provide creative decorating above kitchen cabinets tips.
Why Bother with the Space Above Cabinets?
The vertical space above standard-height kitchen cabinets is a prime candidate for improvement. Leaving it empty can make a kitchen feel unfinished or even dated. Addressing this area can:
- Enhance Aesthetics: It creates a more cohesive and polished look, bridging the gap between cabinets and ceiling.
- Increase Storage: This is a valuable opportunity to add above cabinet storage ideas for seldom-used items or decorative pieces.
- Improve Cleanliness: Closed-off spaces are easier to clean than open shelves collecting dust.
- Boost Home Value: A well-designed kitchen with thoughtful details can increase your home’s appeal and market value.
Filling the Gap: Practical and Stylish Solutions
There are numerous ways to fill the gap between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling. The best choice depends on your budget, DIY skills, and desired look.
1. The Classic Cover-Up: Soffits and Bulkheads
A soffit above kitchen cabinets or a kitchen cabinet bulkhead filler is a common and effective way to close this gap.
What is a Soffit or Bulkhead?
A soffit is a finished structure that extends from the front of the cabinet to the ceiling. It can be made from drywall, wood, or other materials, and it seamlessly integrates with the cabinetry, creating a built-in appearance. A bulkhead is similar, often a more substantial structural element that can house utilities or ventilation.
Benefits of Soffits/Bulkheads:
- Clean, Built-in Look: This is the most seamless solution, making cabinets appear taller and the kitchen more custom.
- Hides Imperfections: They can conceal uneven ceilings or pipes.
- Easy to Clean: The flat surface is simple to wipe down.
DIY vs. Professional Installation:
- DIY: For those comfortable with basic carpentry and drywall, installing a simple wood frame and covering it with drywall or plywood can be a manageable project. This is a great option for a DIY space above cabinets.
- Professional: For a truly integrated look, hiring a carpenter or cabinet maker ensures a perfect match with your existing cabinets and a high-quality finish.
2. Maximizing Storage: Shelving and Cabinet Additions
If your priority is storage, then installing shelves above cabinets or adding extra cabinet units is an excellent approach.
Open Shelving:
- What to put above kitchen cabinets on open shelves? Display decorative items like pottery, cookbooks, or plants.
- Pros: Adds visual interest, makes items accessible, can be a DIY project.
- Cons: Items are exposed to dust, requires regular cleaning.
- Tips: Use matching or complementary materials to your cabinets. Install sturdy shelving that can hold the weight of your items.
Closed Cabinetry:
- Pros: Provides concealed storage, keeps items dust-free, creates a uniform look.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, may require professional installation, makes items less accessible.
- Considerations: Ensure the new cabinets match your existing ones in style and finish for a cohesive design.
Floating Shelves:
- Description: These shelves attach to the wall with hidden brackets, giving a modern, minimalist look.
- What to put above kitchen cabinets on floating shelves? Lightweight decorative items, small plants, or a few well-chosen kitchen gadgets.
- DIY Potential: Many kits are available for easy installation.
3. Decorative Touches: Elevating Your Kitchen’s Style
Beyond practical storage, the space above cabinets can be a canvas for decorating above kitchen cabinets.
Displaying Collections:
- Ideas: Showcase antique china, decorative plates, baskets, or artwork.
- Key: Keep it curated and avoid clutter. Group items by color, size, or theme.
Lighting:
- Uplighting: Install small LED strip lights along the top edge of the cabinets or beneath the soffit. This casts a warm glow on the ceiling, creating ambiance and highlighting architectural features.
- Spotlights: Small, adjustable spotlights can highlight specific decorative items placed on shelves.
Greenery:
- Artificial Plants: Durable and low-maintenance, artificial plants can add a touch of life. Choose realistic-looking options.
- Real Plants: If you have good natural light and are diligent with watering, a few carefully chosen plants can bring a refreshing element. Consider trailing plants that can cascade down.
Artwork and Mirrors:
- Artwork: Small framed pictures or canvases can add color and personality.
- Mirrors: A strategically placed mirror can reflect light and make the kitchen feel larger and brighter.
4. Creative Fillers and Accents
- Wainscoting or Beadboard: Extending this style to the ceiling can create a charming, cottage-like feel.
- Wallpaper or Tile: Applying a decorative wallpaper or ahesive tile to the front of a soffit or bulkhead can add a unique design element.
Choosing the Right Solution: Factors to Consider
When deciding how to fill in the space above kitchen cabinets, think about these factors:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Budget | From DIY solutions to custom built-ins, costs vary significantly. |
| Aesthetic Goal | Do you want a seamless, built-in look, or are you aiming for decorative display? |
| Storage Needs | Do you need more practical storage, or is the primary goal visual appeal? |
| DIY Skill Level | Are you comfortable with basic home improvement tasks, or will you need to hire professionals? |
| Kitchen Style | The solution should complement your existing kitchen design (modern, farmhouse, traditional, etc.). |
| Maintenance | Consider how easy the chosen solution will be to clean and maintain. |
Popular Above Cabinet Storage Ideas and Decorating Tips
Let’s delve deeper into specific above cabinet storage ideas and decorating above kitchen cabinets strategies.
For the Minimalist: Sleek and Simple
- Floating Shelves with Minimal Decor: Place one or two curated items, like a sleek vase or a small sculpture.
- Integrated Lighting: Install LED strip lights for a subtle glow. This is a sophisticated way to fill the gap kitchen cabinets have without adding clutter.
- Paint the Bulkhead: If you opt for a bulkhead, painting it the same color as your cabinets or ceiling can create a seamless, modern look.
For the Traditionalist: Classic Charm
- Decorative Plates and Platters: Arrange a collection of decorative plates or platters. Use plate stands for stability and visual appeal.
- Baskets: Wicker or woven baskets can hold cookbooks, linens, or even faux plants, adding texture and warmth.
- Antique Finds: Display cherished antique items that complement your kitchen’s style.
- Crown Molding: Installing crown molding along the top of your cabinets can create a finished, architectural detail that elevates the entire kitchen. This is a fantastic way to fill the gap kitchen cabinets often leave.
For the Maximalist: Bold and Beautiful
- Gallery Wall: If you have a large space, consider a small gallery of framed art or photographs.
- Mixed Collections: Combine decorative items, baskets, and even small potted plants for a dynamic display.
- Statement Lighting: A small chandelier or a pair of pendant lights could be incorporated if the space allows and complements the kitchen’s overall design.
For the Practical: Maximizing Space
- Glass-Front Cabinets: If your upper cabinets don’t reach the ceiling, consider adding glass-front cabinet doors to the upper section. This creates the illusion of height and allows for display while protecting items.
- Built-in Shelving Unit: A custom-built shelving unit that matches your cabinets provides ample above cabinet storage ideas. You can use this for frequently accessed items or decorative pieces.
- Open Cubbies: Install open cubbies that mirror the style of your kitchen for easy access storage.
DIY Space Above Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Approach
Here’s a general guide for a common DIY space above cabinets project: adding a simple wood frame and drywall.
Materials You Might Need:
- Lumber: 1×3 or 1×4 lumber for framing.
- Screws: Drywall screws and wood screws.
- Drywall: Pre-mixed joint compound, drywall tape, drywall screws.
- Paint: Primer and paint matching your cabinets or walls.
- Tools: Measuring tape, level, saw (circular or miter), drill, putty knife, sanding block, safety glasses, dust mask.
Steps to Consider:
- Measure Carefully: Accurately measure the width, height, and depth of the space you need to fill.
- Build a Frame: Construct a simple wooden frame using lumber. Attach it securely to the wall and the top of your cabinets. Ensure it’s level.
- Cut and Attach Drywall: Measure and cut drywall pieces to fit the frame. Attach the drywall to the frame using drywall screws.
- Tape and Mud: Apply joint compound (mud) over the seams and screw heads. Use drywall tape on the seams for added strength. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing each to dry and sanding lightly in between.
- Sand Smooth: Once the mud is completely dry, sand the entire surface until it’s smooth and flush with the cabinet top.
- Prime and Paint: Apply a coat of primer, followed by two coats of your chosen paint color.
Important Note: If your kitchen has soffits that need to be maintained for ventilation or wiring, consult a professional before attempting any DIY modifications.
Installing Shelves Above Cabinets: A Practical Guide
Installing shelves above cabinets is a popular way to add both storage and style.
Types of Shelves:
- Floating Shelves: Modern and clean, they appear to hover.
- Bracket Shelves: Traditional shelves with visible brackets, offering strong support.
- Corbel Shelves: Shelves supported by decorative brackets (corbels) that add a rustic or classic touch.
Installation Steps:
- Choose Your Shelf and Location: Decide on the style and placement. Use a stud finder to locate wall studs for secure mounting.
- Mark Placement: Hold the shelf or bracket against the wall at your desired height. Use a level to ensure it’s straight. Mark the screw hole locations.
- Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes at your marked locations. If you’re not drilling into studs, use appropriate wall anchors.
- Attach Brackets (if applicable): Screw the brackets securely to the wall.
- Mount the Shelf: Place the shelf onto the brackets or attach it to the wall according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Test Stability: Gently test the shelf’s stability before placing items on it.
Cabinet Top Storage Solutions: Beyond the Basics
When thinking about cabinet top storage solutions, consider these creative options:
- Decorative Boxes and Bins: Use attractive boxes or bins to store smaller items that you want to keep out of sight but easily accessible.
- Roll-Out Trays: For upper cabinet additions, roll-out trays make accessing items at the back much easier.
- Built-in Drawers: If you’re installing new cabinetry, consider adding shallow drawers at the very top for stashing seldom-used kitchen tools or cleaning supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is it necessary to fill the space above kitchen cabinets?
A1: While not strictly necessary, filling this space often improves the kitchen’s aesthetics, making it look more finished and custom. It also provides an opportunity for added storage or decorative display, and it can make cleaning easier by reducing dust-collecting surfaces.
Q2: Can I put plants above my kitchen cabinets?
A2: Yes, you can put plants above your kitchen cabinets. Consider using artificial plants for a maintenance-free option or real plants if you have adequate light and are prepared to water them. Ensure the plants are in stable pots to prevent tipping.
Q3: What are the best materials for a kitchen cabinet bulkhead filler?
A3: Common materials include drywall, plywood, and MDF. For a more decorative finish, you could also use beadboard or even extend existing cabinetry materials. The choice often depends on the desired look and your DIY capabilities.
Q4: How do I clean the space above my kitchen cabinets?
A4: If the space is open, regular dusting is essential. For a filled-in space like a soffit or enclosed cabinet, cleaning is generally easier – just wipe down the surface. If you have open shelving, dust items and the shelves themselves regularly.
Q5: Should the filler match my cabinets exactly?
A5: For a seamless, built-in look, matching the cabinets is ideal. However, you can also choose a contrasting color or material for a bolder design statement, or match the ceiling color to create a sense of height.
Q6: What if I have recessed lighting or vents in the soffit above my cabinets?
A6: If there are existing utilities, like lighting or ventilation, in the soffit, you will need to work around them or consult a professional to relocate them. You can integrate lighting into a new bulkhead or soffit design, but always ensure safety and proper airflow.
By thoughtfully addressing the space above your kitchen cabinets, you can transform a forgotten area into a stylish and functional asset, truly maximizing space and enhancing your kitchen’s overall appeal.