How to utilize the space above kitchen cabinets?

Author: Germaine Abshire  |  Last update: Monday, September 15, 2025

11 Brilliant Ways to Use the Space Above Your Kitchen Cabinets
  1. Display serving pieces. This is a classic move, and for good reason. ...
  2. Use canisters to conceal clutter. ...
  3. Bust out the baskets. ...
  4. Show off a collection. ...
  5. Display cookbooks. ...
  6. Store your wine and spirits. ...
  7. Grow something. ...
  8. Add another shelf.

What to do with the 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Some people consider decorating the tops of kitchen cabinets outdated, while others consider it a timeless option.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.

What to do with the space between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling?

To fill in the gap between the new cabinets and the ceiling, I screwed in 2x4s on top of each cabinet. Next, I had my handyman install a 4'' crown moulding above it. Crown molding makes a big difference to any space and can give the charm of older homes that is so desirable.

What is the dead space above kitchen cabinets called?

The space between kitchen cabinets and the ceiling is called “Soffit”. A kitchen soffit is specifically a boxy shape designed to cover up pipes, wiring, and other mechanical or to fill the gap between the top cabinets and the ceiling.

Is greenery on top of cabinets outdated?

Greenery above kitchen cabinets will never be outdated!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 Update Kitchen Cabinets on a Budget | Enclose Space Above Kitchen Cabinets

How to use space above cabinets?

11 Brilliant Ways to Use the Space Above Your Kitchen Cabinets
  1. Display serving pieces. This is a classic move, and for good reason. ...
  2. Use canisters to conceal clutter. ...
  3. Bust out the baskets. ...
  4. Show off a collection. ...
  5. Display cookbooks. ...
  6. Store your wine and spirits. ...
  7. Grow something. ...
  8. Add another shelf.

What makes kitchen cabinets look dated?

Experts agree that the primary thing making your cabinets look dated is their color — but those same experts are divided on what, exactly, that color is. Erica Lugbill of Chicago-based interior design firm Lugbill Designs says all-white cabinets are a dead giveaway that your kitchen is stuck in the stone ages.

Should I leave a gap above kitchen cabinets?

In the past, upper cabinets were generally either 32” or 36” tall, and so leaving a gap between them and the ceiling was standard. Today, many people prefer cabinets that reach the ceiling. It can give a cleaner, more streamlined look, and it increases a cabinet's storage capacity.

What to do with cabinets that don't go to the ceiling?

MY KITCHEN CABINETS

We didn't want our cabinets to go clear up to 9', so our custom cabinet maker added a soffit that matched the cabinets. It all is one continuous piece from the cabinets up to the crown molding. This is your most sophisticated option if you do not want your cabinets to go to the ceiling.

What to do with soffit above kitchen cabinets?

Alternatives of Removing Kitchen Soffits
  1. Extended Cabinets. If your cabinets do not match the length of the soffit, the soffit becomes more obvious. ...
  2. Integrate Additional Cabinets for Extra Storage. ...
  3. Install Crown Molding. ...
  4. Convert Kitchen Soffit into Pillar or Beam. ...
  5. Tile, Paint, or Use Wallpaper on Soffit. ...
  6. Install Lighting.

What to put in a cabinet above a stove?

While you may want everyday paper goods within easier reach, the cabinet above your stove is perfect for storing surplus items. Tuck away extra tablecloths, napkins, plates, cups, and paper towels in this cabinet, and retrieve them when it's time to restock your main supply.

How do you hide the gap between kitchen cabinets and walls?

Caulk can be used if the gap is not too large. As a result, the best approach to fill wide gaps between the side of a cabinet and the wall is with cabinet filler strips.

What brands of kitchen cabinets does Lowes carry?

Lowe's offers a variety of custom cabinets and semi-custom cabinets from several different manufacturers to meet your style and construction preferences and exceed your every expectation. Shop KraftMaid cabinets, Shenandoah cabinets, Diamond cabinets and Schuler Cabinetry cabinets.

What can I do with space between upper cabinets and ceiling?

10 Ways to Use the Space Between Your Cabinets and Ceiling
  1. Add a second row of cabinets. ...
  2. Put in a window. ...
  3. Use paint or wallpaper to add interest. ...
  4. Enclose the space or fill it in with trim. ...
  5. Use top-hinged cabinets. ...
  6. Treat it as a bookshelf. ...
  7. Add plants. ...
  8. Display your collection or decorative items.

What is the thing above kitchen cabinets called?

Kitchen soffits are usually installed above your cabinets, closing the gaps between the cabinets and ceiling. While kitchen soffits were very popular in older homes, the style has fallen out of favor for many homeowners and interior designers.

What do you put on upper cabinets?

Upper kitchen cabinets are most often used for storing dishes, glasses and dinnerware, but they can also be used to store spices, mixing bowls and small appliances, or even as a small pantry.

Are soffits outdated?

Conclusion: Are Soffits Outdated? The answer to whether soffits are outdated is not straightforward. It depends on your kitchen's size, ceiling height, and your personal preferences. In many modern kitchens, eliminating the soffit can create a more open and contemporary feel.

Why do kitchen cabinets not go to the ceiling?

It's important for homeowners to easily reach items in their kitchen cabinets, regardless of their height. The average folk's height plays a role in the standard height of kitchen cabinets. If the cabinets were to touch the ceiling, most people would need a step stool or ladder to access top-shelf items.

How much does it cost to extend cabinets to the ceiling?

Cost to Add Kitchen Cabinets to the Ceiling

You can expect the cost of kitchen cabinets to run between $50 and $450 per linear foot for labor and installation.

Is decorating above kitchen cabinets outdated?

Is decorating above kitchen cabinets outdated? The short answer is no. There are so many beautiful ways to decorative above kitchen cabinets that will inject modernity, textural interest and decorative style to your kitchen. There are many interesting kitchen styling techniques and designs to chose from.

What trim between cabinets and ceiling?

Crown molding is a popular choice as it offers a timeless and elegant look, seamlessly bridging the gap between cabinets and ceiling. Styles of crown molding include cove molding, dentil molding, or even a simple scribe molding which can work well depending on the design theme you're aiming for.

Do cabinets to the ceiling make a room look bigger?

Some people are completely focused on having as much storage as possible in the kitchen and selecting 42" upper cabinets will definitely give you more space. It also helps make the ceiling appear larger by having the cabinets touch the ceiling. But, be warned, the extra space does come with a few caveats.

What is outdated in kitchens?

Outdated Cabinetry

Granite countertops typically pair with natural wood cabinets, but pine or hickory cabinetry can date your kitchen's style back a few decades. Additionally, cabinetry with gold or brass fixtures shows that the kitchen hasn't had an update for a while.

What countertops are dated?

6 outdated kitchen countertop trends to leave behind in 2025
  • High-maintenance countertop materials.
  • Natural stone in busier households.
  • Heavy profile countertops.
  • Granite.
  • Tile.
  • Laminate.

What kitchen cabinet color is outdated?

To make sure that your cabinets will age well, designers recommend avoiding yellowy whites, sage greens, bright colors, or even grays—all of which they say are either outdated or on their way out.

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