What Can I Do With Empty Space Above My Cabinets?
Empty space above cabinets can be a common sight in many kitchens and homes. While it may not seem like much, this unused space can actually be a valuable asset, offering ample opportunities to enhance your décor, maximize storage, and add a touch of personality to your living areas. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into a range of creative and practical ways to utilize this often-overlooked area, transforming it from an empty void into a functional and aesthetically pleasing element of your home.
Decorative Enhancements
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Crown Molding: Adding crown molding to the top of your cabinets is a classic way to dress up the space and create a more finished look. Choose a molding that complements the style of your kitchen or room and paint it in a complementary color to create a cohesive design.
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Wall Art: Hang artwork or decorative pieces above your cabinets to add visual interest and personality. Choose pieces that reflect your style and coordinate with the existing décor.
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Floating Shelves: Install floating shelves above your cabinets to display books, plants, or other decorative items. This adds a touch of elegance and creates extra storage space.
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Wallpaper: Apply wallpaper to the back of the space above the cabinets to add a splash of color and pattern. Choose a design that complements the rest of the room and brings visual harmony.
Functional Storage
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Extra Storage Shelves: Install additional shelves above the cabinets to store items that you don’t use regularly, such as seasonal decorations, kitchen appliances, or cleaning supplies.
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Hidden Storage: Create hidden storage by adding a false panel that covers the empty space. This can be used to store bulky items or anything you want to keep out of sight.
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Pull-Out Drawers: Install pull-out drawers above the cabinets to store frequently used items within easy reach. This is particularly convenient for storing spices, cooking utensils, or small appliances.
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Lazy Susan: Add a lazy Susan to the corner space above your cabinets to create a rotating storage unit. This is an efficient way to store items without having to reach into the back corners.
Ambient Lighting
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Accent Lighting: Install accent lighting above the cabinets to illuminate the space and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Choose from recessed lights, under-cabinet lights, or puck lights.
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Indirect Lighting: Create indirect lighting by installing LED strips behind the cabinets. This provides a soft, ambient glow that bounces off the ceiling and creates a subtle, welcoming effect.
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Skylights: If your kitchen or room has access to natural light, consider installing skylights above the cabinets to bring in additional illumination.
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Pendant Lights: Hang pendant lights from the ceiling above the cabinets to add task lighting and create a focal point in the space.
Practical Considerations
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Measure First: Before making any purchases or modifications, carefully measure the space above your cabinets to ensure that the chosen solution fits properly.
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Consider Accessibility: Make sure that any storage or display items you install above the cabinets are easily accessible. Avoid placing heavy or fragile objects in areas where they could be difficult to reach.
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Keep it Clean: Regularly clean the space above your cabinets to prevent dust and debris from accumulating. Use a step stool or ladder as needed to safely access the area.
FAQs
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Q: Can I install open shelves above my cabinets if I have a small kitchen?
A: Yes, open shelves can actually help create the illusion of more space in a small kitchen. Choose narrow shelves and keep them uncluttered to maintain a sense of openness. -
Q: What is the best way to light the space above my cabinets if I don’t have access to natural light?
A: Consider using a combination of recessed lights and accent lighting to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. -
Q: Can I use the space above my cabinets to store heavy items?
A: It is not recommended to store excessively heavy items above cabinets. This could put unnecessary strain on the cabinets and increase the risk of accidents. -
Q: Can I paint the back of the space above my cabinets a different color?
A: Yes, painting the back of the space a different color can add a unique touch and create a statement wall. Choose a color that complements the existing décor or adds a pop of contrast. -
Q: Can I install a backsplash above my cabinets?
A: Yes, you can install a backsplash above your cabinets to protect the wall from splashes and stains. Choose a backsplash material that is easy to clean and complements the style of your kitchen.
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