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When decorating your kitchen, you will want to find ways to utilize and decorate the area above the kitchen cabinets. Above cabinet decorating ideas can include using the area for additional storage, or simply using decorative items to add charm and visual interest. The area above the cabinets might be open, offering a shelf-like space that can be used, or it could be closed in by a soffit. Either way, there are techniques you can use to decorate this area and give your kitchen more visual appeal.
Measure First Then Plan
The space above the kitchen cabinets is naturally limited, so anything you use to decorate this space is going to have to fit. So that you know what you have to work with, measure the area in regards to height, width, and depth. Keeping items in the proper proportion is also an important consideration when decorating this space. For example, displaying a large pot or vase beside a very small knick knack wouldn't be as visually appealing as creating a separate display of smaller knick knacks, or using the smaller items as part of an overall display. The height and depth measurements are the most important ones when planning your use for this space. Don't let items hang out over the edge of the cabinets, as this can create an unsafe situation. If an item is too tall to fit, such as might be the case with a large serving platter, you might be able to tilt the item back against the wall to make it fit, as long as the front edge of the cabinet top has a guard or ledge to keep it from slipping and falling.
Choosing a Theme
When considering above cabinet decorating ideas, you can often create the most attractive visual display by selecting an overall theme. This theme could be determined by the overall theme of your kitchen, such as a fruit-inspired or barnyard look. Or, you could use this area for a particular type of accessory, such as a collection of baskets, tins, glassware, or bowls.
Plan for Overall Proportion
It's important to remember when decorating the above cabinet area that everything will be viewed from a lower perspective. It's usually best to utilize a few larger items to create some overall focal points. Then, smaller items can be arranged in groupings to add an artful and decorative touch. This often looks much better than arranging all large or all small items. You can also attach flat items such as trays, shallow bowls, signs, photographs or paintings to the wall behind the area. By doing so, you can create a decorative backdrop for the other items without worrying about them tilting or falling over.
Adding Plants
Plants can be a great above cabinet decorating idea. It can also be helpful to select plants that don't require a great deal of water to make it easier to care for the plants. Be sure you have a good watering can and a sturdy step stool that you can use. If the area is too high for easy access, choosing realistic silk plants and flowers can also be a viable option.
Home design expert, Alyssa Davis of Metal-Wall-Art.com, is particularly skilled in designing with large metal art and silver metal wall decor.
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