Sync Up Your Kitchen for Successful Decorating with These Smart Tips

The tops of kitchen cabinets offer prime decorative real estate in your home. But this often overlooked space has so much potential to become an eye-catching feature that reflects your personal flair. With some simple and budget-friendly updates, you can transform those plain cabinet tops into an inviting, customized element that really makes your kitchen shine.

Read on for inspiring tips that will have you seeing your kitchen in a whole new light.

First, Assess Your Existing Kitchen Cabinet Tops

Before decorating, take some time to evaluate your current kitchen cabinet tops. This will help you identify any changes needed to make the space functional and optimized for your storage needs and style.

Take Measurements

Grab a tape measure and jot down the length and depth of your cabinet runs. Note the vertical distance from your countertops to the bottom of the upper cabinets. Knowing these dimensions will assist in planning décor projects like installing new shelving or selecting pendant lighting.

Evaluate Functionality

Consider what you currently use your cabinets for and what you need them to store. Are your dishes crammed together on solid shelves? Do you have to rummage to find cooking equipment? Assess if any adjustments like drawer organizers or pull-out shelves could make the space work better.

Determine Your Decor Style

Pinpoint the aesthetic you want for your kitchen before selecting décor. Do you lean towards a sleek, modern look with clean lines? Or love the homeyness of rustic farmhouse style? Make note of colors, textures, and materials that appeal to you. Your cabinet top décor should blend seamlessly with your tastes.

Refresh With New Paint or Backsplash

An easy way to update your kitchen’s look is by giving your existing cabinets a makeover. A fresh coat of paint or new backsplash can make worn cabinets look like new again.

Paint Cabinets

Painting drab cabinets can brighten up a small kitchen space. Opt for a crisp white paint to make the room appear lighter and airier. For drama, try navy blue cabinets paired with white dishes and décor. Use paint to create an elegant, cohesive look.

Add a Backsplash

Installing a backsplash is an easy upgrade that protects your walls from splashes while also adding visual appeal. Choose a backsplash material that coordinates with your countertops to tie the whole space together. Subway tile and marble mosaic backsplashes work in both traditional and contemporary kitchens.

Consider Mural Wallpaper

Removable wallpaper is a budget-friendly alternative to pricey tile backsplashes. Choose a mural print with colors that complement your cabinets or opt for a scenic image as an accent wall. Use wallpaper to showcase your unique interests and style.

Display Dishware for an Organized Look

Your kitchen cabinet tops provide the ideal space to neatly display beautiful dishware and keep items organized. Embrace the opportunity to show off your best plates, mugs, and glassware.

Install Glass-Front Cabinets

Glass-front wall cabinets keep your cherished dinnerware dust-free but still visible. For drama, install LED strip lighting to illuminate the interiors. Displaying dishes or collectibles draws the eye upward.

Add Open Shelving

Mixing open and closed cabinets creates a blended look ideal for organized display. Include built-in ledges to neatly corral plates, bowls, or cookware. Open shelves show off your kitchenware and memorabilia.

Embrace Plate Racks

Vertical plate racks maximize your storage capacity, keeping stacks of plates, bowls, or pans contained neatly in a compact space. Choose classic metal racks for an industrial edge or carved wood racks for rustic charm. Plate racks keep dishware accessible but tidy.

Incorporate Lighting for Ambiance

The right lighting can make all the difference in your kitchen. Illuminate cabinet tops to create ambiance and highlight your new décor.

Opt for Pendant Lights

Hanging pendant lights over a kitchen sink or island provide both task lighting and style. Stagger two matching pendant lights at slightly different heights for visual interest. Opt for metal, glass, or fabric shades to complement your look.

Add LED Strip Lights

Affordable LED strip lights can be taped to the underside of cabinets to cast a soft, ambient glow. Use a remote to control color and dimming. LEDs illuminate displayed objects without heat damage risk.

String Festive Light Strands

Bring a whimsical feel to your kitchen by adorning cabinet tops with strands of fairy lights. For covered outdoor kitchens, durable string lights with plastic bulbs can handle the weather. Light strands sparkle against rich wood.

Display Greenery for a Natural Accent

Incorporating plants is an easy way to bring life and vibrancy into your kitchen. Position greenery atop cabinets to reap the benefits without sacrificing counter space.

Place Potted Succulents or Air Plants

Low-maintenance succulents and air plants thrive without direct sunlight, making them perfect for display away from windows. Cluster an assortment of miniature plants in colorful pots for an eclectic vignette. Greenery livens up any space.

Drape Vines or Ivy

Artificial vines, ivy, or garlands offer the look of living plants without the maintenance. Drape them along the tops of your cabinets for a natural feel. Alternate artificial vines and string lights for bohemian flair.

Grow Self-Watering Planters

Self-contained planters with built-in water reservoirs reduce gardening demands. Display herb gardens atop cabinets to snip fresh garnishes while cooking. Even busy cooks can grow plants with self-watering planters.

Style with Meaningful Decor

Look in your collections for cherished items to display. Personal touches make kitchens feel special and lived-in. Curate cabinet tops to reflect your interests and memories.

Show Off Heirloom Dishware

Turn passed-down china and vintage dishware into decor by displaying with pride. Add acrylic risers to lend dimension to stacked plates. Sentimental pieces deserve admiration.

Hang Artwork or Inspiring Quotes

Choose favorite pictures, paintings, or framed photos to add personalized pops of color. Decals with encouraging quotes or phrases lend your space positive energy. Surround yourself with words and images that inspire you.

Install Spice Racks

Keep frequently used spices organized and at your fingertips by mounting racks inside or on top of cabinets. Hanging racks save storage space. Quickly locate oregano, cinnamon, or cayenne without rummaging.

With a little creativity and these cabinet top décor tips, you can easily transform the often overlooked tops of your kitchen cabinets into an inspiring space that reflects your personal style. Choose accents and displays that spark joy while cooking and entertaining. Give your cabinets renewed purpose by decorating in a way that fits your lifestyle and brings out your kitchen’s unique charm.