Fill That Empty Space Above Your Cabinets

While some of the more modern kitchens feature open shelving or cabinets that stretch all the way to the ceiling, the majority of homes in the U.S. have an awkward space between the top of the kitchen cabinets and the ceiling. If you're like many homeowners, you might be wondering what to do with it. Do you just ignore it? Do you use it as a storage area for large and awkwardly shaped kitchen items? Or is there some kind of decorating magic that can make this space look great?

You'll be glad to know there are some simple things you can do to make the area above your cabinets both functional and attractive. Here are a few suggestions to help spark your creativity.

Stylish Storage

The most functional option is to use this space for storage. However, you'll need to take the time to do it right. Don't just toss everything that doesn't fit in your cabinets up there, or it will look like a cluttered mess. Instead, style this area as if it were a retail space. This means adding decorative baskets, jars, vases, or stacking bins. Doing so will allow you to create a useful storage area while still making the space look great.

Decorate with Plants

It's always nice to have some greenery in your kitchen, so adding a few plants to this space is a great idea. You'll just need to be intentional about the plants you choose. Since this area probably doesn't get a lot of direct light, look for shade-loving plants. Consider something like Pathos or Devil's Ivy. Both tolerate low light, trail downwards, and are very tolerant of neglect. If you don't have a green thumb, artificial plants can also work. However, it's important to choose the most natural-looking ones you can find. Opting for faux plants that are cheap or obviously fake will detract from your decor instead of improving it.

Display Your Favorite Cookbooks

A kitchen "library" is another great option for this space. Try displaying your most colorful cookbooks and coffee table books. Add some decorative pieces alongside them to finish off the look. If you choose this option, remember that getting them down will likely be a challenge — so only choose books that you don't use very often. Also, beware of putting them too close to the stove.

Vintage Decor

Sure, you could use the space above your cabinets to hold your Kitchen-Aid and your waffle maker. However, it would look much nicer if you used it to display quirky vintage items. You can create a unique look by using the space to show off items you've collected during travels, interesting items you've received from family or friends, or fun thrift-store finds.

Stash Your Bottles

Don't have space in your home for a stand-alone bar? Use the area above your cabinets to stash liquor bottles, wine, mixers, and bar tools. If you arrange them neatly, they can look just as good as purchased decor. If you decide to take this route, make sure you have a step ladder handy. The last thing you want is to have to climb up on your counters next time you want to make a cocktail.

It's Time to Get Creative!

When decorating the space above the cabinets, the most important thing is to embrace your own unique style. Now that you have some fabulous and functional ideas, use them as a springboard to create your own unique display.

• Simple Daily Habits to Maintain a Cleaner Home
• Don't Let Winter Win: How to Freeze-Proof Your Garage
• How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
• Winterproofing Windows and Doors: A Guide to Keeping the Cold Out
• How to Future-Proof Your Home for Changing Needs
• Home Happiness 101: Small Upgrades That Can Make Every Day Feel Better
• Fall Cleaning Tips For Decluttering Before the Holidays
• How to Create a Cozy Fall Retreat in Your Backyard
• Why Fall is Prime Time for Window Replacement
• Tips for Transitioning Your Closet From Summer to Fall

• Why September Is the Best Month to Paint Your Home's Exterior
• End-of-Summer Pool Closing Tips

• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• How to Research Crime and Safety
• What Buyers Need to Know About Home Warranties
• Browsing for Homes Online? Follow These Shopping Tips
• How to Look Past Bad Staging
• What Happens If Interest Rates Change After You Buy?
• How to Compare Two Homes You Love
• Post-Holiday Finances: How to Reset Your Budget for Home Buying
• New Year, New Home: How to Set Smart Home-Buying Goals for the Year Ahead

• Looking Beyond Closets: How to Evaluate a Home's Storage Potential
• Time-Off Tips: Using Your Holiday Break for Real Estate Decision-Making

• What Buyers Notice First in Listing Photos
• How Spring Sellers Can Enter The Market With Confidence
• Tax Considerations Home Sellers Should Know About
• The One-Room-at-a-Time Spring Prep Strategy
• What's the Difference Between Listing a Home and Marketing It?
• How to Respond to Buyer Feedback Without Panicking
• Transparency Builds Trust: Why Honesty Sells Homes Faster
• Winter Selling Myths That Shouldn't Keep You From Listing
• The Value of Local Market Knowledge When Selling Your Home
• Selling in Snowy Conditions: Safety, Access, and Presentation Tips

• Making Your Home Smell Like Home: Winter Scents That Attract Buyers
• Handling Relocation Buyers During the Holidays