Does crown molding go on top of cabinets?

Author: Michaela Kub  |  Last update: Sunday, September 7, 2025

Traditional crown moulding is usually applied on the top of cabinets or on the ceiling right above them.

Do you put crown molding above kitchen cabinets?

Crown molding only gets applied to the cabinet face frame with partial overlay cabinets where the face frame is actually exposed. With full overlay cabinets (or frameless without a face frame) where the doors cover the face frame, you have to use blocking or a starter strip to apply molding.

Where should you not put crown molding?

You should not install crown molding on cathedral or vaulted ceilings or in rooms connecting to another room with a varying ceiling height.

Is crown molding on cabinets in style?

Crown molding for cabinetry remains a popular choice for adding style and visual interest to kitchen design. With its versatile profile, crown molding seamlessly enhances the transition between the ceiling and upper cabinets, creating a cohesive and polished appearance.

What kind of molding goes on top of cabinets?

The molding on top of kitchen cabinets is called crown molding. It is available in various styles and sizes to fit any design. This molding is often paired with starter/riser molding.

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Are crown moldings outdated?

So, is crown moulding outdated? Not. It's a style decision that has stood the test of time, bringing a dash of class and ageless elegance to homes and places. If you're looking to enhance your interior design, consider crown moulding from Intco Decor – where classic meets contemporary, and elegance knows no bounds.

What is the trim piece above cabinet?

Crown molding is decorative trim that is added to the top of your cabinets. The benefit of installing crown molding is that it draws the eye upward, showcasing the elegance of your cabinets. Crown molding can either bond with the ceiling or allow for space above the cabinet.

Is it in style to put things on top of kitchen cabinets?

Some people consider decorating the tops of kitchen cabinets outdated, while others consider it a timeless option. Displaying essential kitchen items, incorporating natural storage baskets, or carrying your backsplash or wallpaper into the space above cabinets can keep them looking current.

Do modern homes have crown molding?

Crown molding is both timeless and contemporary, and there are ways to make it fit into your home seamlessly. Here are a few of the top trends when it comes to modern crown molding. Baseboard Styles. Crown molding looks great on walls and door frames, but don't forget your baseboards, too.

What color should kitchen crown molding be?

The key to nailing this look is to select a crown molding color that complements the overall palette of your kitchen. Rich, deep hues like charcoal, black, or even a deep navy can make a striking statement when paired with crisp, white or light-toned cabinetry.

Is crown moulding out of style in 2024?

In 2024, we will see more wainscoting, decorative trim molds, baseboards and crown molding with details. Plain ceilings will be very out. Whether it's coffered or wallpapered, or detailed in some other way, statement ceilings will be huge in 2024.”

What rooms should not have crown molding?

Crown molding should never be installed in rooms with a ceiling height of less than 8 feet. A low ceiling accentuated with trim will make the room feel smaller than it is.

What are the cons of crown molding?

Because crown molding sticks out past the cabinet or shelving sections (and you really don't want molding to stick out past the adjacent wall) – the width of cabinets or shelves need to be narrower than if you don't use crown molding.

Where is the best place to put crown molding?

Most experts recommend putting crown moulding in the centralized rooms of the house (like the kitchen, living room, family room, and dining room), however, the bedroom is also a great place to utilize it. It's a great way to increase the sophistication of your bedroom's design without adding clutter.

How tall is crown molding on top of cabinets?

Generally speaking, the taller the cabinet, the larger the crown. A 36" upper looks proportional with crown in the 3-4" range. A 42" - 48" cabinet with crown in the 4-5" range and 54" and up 5-7" range or stacked.

Should kitchen cabinet crown molding touch the ceiling?

1) Never leave crown moldings closer than 9 inches from a ceiling. Once you get within a foot of the ceiling you should have the cabinetry and molding meet the ceiling. Don't create spaces that look odd and that can't be cleaned. Molding too close to ceiling without reaching it.

Is crown molding on cabinets outdated?

As to whether kitchen cabinet crown molding will eventually go out of style, designers can't see that happening anytime soon. So, if this is a look you love, you can go for it knowing that it won't look dated in a few years' time.

When should you not use crown molding?

When Shouldn't You Use Crown Molding? Crown molding isn't advisable in any room with vaulted ceilings. Also called high ceilings, vaulted ceilings feature an arched design that creates more space above the room.

Does crown molding add value to a house?

You won't get an extra dime in appraised value for your home. That means that no matter how much you put into this feature, you won't get a single dime more when it comes to a buyer who is using a mortgage loan to buy your home. That doesn't mean to say that crown molding and trim doesn't add appeal or perceived value.

What not to put above kitchen cabinets?

Don't draw too much attention. “You don't necessarily want to draw eyes up there,” says Joo. When dealing with the gap, she cautions against bold design choices that might accentuate the gap as a focal point in your kitchen. Things like decorative lights or an accented wall color can pull too much focus.

Is greenery on top of cabinets outdated?

Greenery above kitchen cabinets will never be outdated! Placing plants high above the cabinets creates a calming effect.

How to decorate above cabinets in 2024?

Another beautiful way to decorate above kitchen cabinets is to try wrapping the gap with wallpaper; the colors and patterns will add dimension to the space. Incorporating wallpaper will give that space above the cabinets to the ceiling a special visual detail and highlight.

What type of molding goes on top of cabinets?

A decorative trim that sits at the top of the cabinet and provides a smooth transition from the cabinet to the ceiling is called crown molding. It comes in many shapes and sizes and adds detail that's pleasing to the eye and indicative of the homeowner's style.

What does scribe molding look like?

Scribe molding is a thin strip of wood that covers gaps or inconsistencies where the cabinet meets the ceiling or wall. The piece of wood is typically straight on the end that is placed against the wall, but the other end is curved to fit the cabinet.

What is the decorative top of a cabinet called?

Crown Moulding. Goes on top of the cabinet. May or may not connect cabinet with the ceiling.

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