Decorating Above Cabinets in Industrial Kitchens
Kitchens with that raw, industrial vibe—think exposed brick, metal beams, and concrete floors—scream personality, but those awkward spaces above cabinets? They’re like the Wild West of home decor: untamed, dusty, and begging for a makeover. You stare up there, scratching your head, wondering how to turn that no-man’s-land into a showstopper without cluttering the sleek, utilitarian aesthetic. I’ve been there, trust me—my own kitchen, a converted loft with pipes running like veins across the ceiling, had me stumped until I cracked the code. Here’s how you transform that neglected space above cabinets in industrial kitchens into a curated masterpiece, blending wall decor, plants, storage, and more with a hefty dose of wit and style.
🌿 Greenery That Packs a Punch
Industrial kitchens thrive on contrast—hard metals softened by organic touches. Plants and flowers above cabinets bring life to the starkness. Picture trailing pothos cascading like a green waterfall, their vines draping over the edge, or a row of succulents in weathered terracotta pots, soaking up the sunlight. I once plopped a fiddle-leaf fig up there, its broad leaves practically winking at my stainless steel appliances. Pro tip: mix in faux plants if your kitchen’s light is more dungeon than greenhouse. Arrange them in eclectic planters—think rusted metal buckets or concrete pots—to nod to the industrial vibe.
🌱 Idea: Cluster small pots with herbs like basil or rosemary for a functional, fragrant display.
🌸 Tip: Add dried eucalyptus in vases for low-maintenance pops of color.
⚠️ Caution: Avoid overwatering; nobody wants a soggy cabinet top.
“Plants and flowers above cabinets bring life to the starkness, softening the industrial edge like a poet in a factory.”
🖼️ Wall Decor That Tells a Story
Who says wall decor stops at eye level? The space above cabinets is prime real estate for bold statements. Industrial kitchens love gritty, textured pieces—think reclaimed wood signs, vintage metal advertisements, or abstract art with rusted frames. I hung a massive black-and-white photo of an old factory above my cabinets, and it’s like the kitchen gained a soul overnight. Mirrors work wonders too, reflecting light and making your space feel bigger. Go for distressed or blackened steel frames to keep it edgy.
🖌️ Idea: Lean a series of small, mismatched mirrors for a quirky, reflective gallery.
📜 Tip: Add a chalkboard noticeboard for jotting recipes or doodling, blending function with flair.
🔩 Pro Move: Source flea market finds for authentic, weathered vibes.
🗳️ Storage Boxes & Baskets with Swagger
Storage above cabinets isn’t just practical—it’s a chance to flex your style. Woven baskets, wire crates, or wooden crates stained dark scream industrial chic. I tossed some black wire baskets up there to stash extra linens, and suddenly, my kitchen looked like it belonged in a design magazine. Choose pieces with texture—think jute, burlap, or hammered metal—to contrast the smooth cabinetry. Stack them unevenly for that effortless, lived-in look.
📦 Idea: Use baskets to hide less-pretty kitchen gadgets, like that ancient blender you swear you’ll use someday.
🧺 Tip: Mix in labeled boxes for a speakeasy-inspired vibe—think “Whiskey” or “Spices.”
⚙️ Caution: Secure heavier items; industrial doesn’t mean earthquake-proof.
🕯️ Candle Holders & Candles for Ambiance
Nothing says cozy like flickering candlelight bouncing off industrial surfaces. Place chunky candle holders—think iron, brass, or concrete—above cabinets for instant warmth. I lined up a trio of black iron holders with white pillar candles, and it’s like my kitchen moonlights as a moody jazz bar. Group them in odd numbers for visual interest, and mix heights for drama. Battery-operated candles work if you’re paranoid about open flames near your exposed beams.
🕯️ Idea: Pair candles with metallic trays to catch drips and add a reflective sheen.
🔥 Tip: Scented candles like cedar or leather enhance the rugged aesthetic.
🌟 Pro Move: Add fairy lights around holders for a twinkling, urban loft feel.
🏺 Vases & Bowls as Sculptural Stars
Vases and bowls aren’t just for flowers—they’re sculptural heavyweights in the industrial kitchen. Oversized ceramic vases in matte black or speckled gray add heft without fuss. I scored a chipped, vintage bowl at a thrift store, filled it with pinecones, and plopped it above my cabinets; it’s now the talk of every dinner party. Opt for irregular shapes or hand-thrown pieces to keep things artisanal, and don’t be afraid to leave them empty for minimalist swagger.
🏺 Idea: Cluster vases in varying heights for a skyline-inspired silhouette.
🍶 Tip: Add metallic bowls for a nod to industrial machinery.
🎨 Pro Move: Paint a vase with chalkboard paint for a customizable, ever-changing piece.
📌 Noticeboards for Functional Flair
Noticeboards above cabinets? Hear me out. A corkboard or magnetic board in a sleek metal frame adds utility and style. Pin up polaroids, recipes, or that postcard from your last vacation—it’s like a mood board for your kitchen’s personality. I stuck a small magnetic board up there, and it’s now a rotating gallery of my kid’s terrible but adorable drawings. Choose boards with industrial materials like steel or reclaimed wood to stay on theme.
📋 Idea: Use a pegboard for hanging small baskets or tools, doubling as decor and storage.
🧷 Tip: Paint the frame in matte black for seamless integration.
🔧 Caution: Keep it sparse; a cluttered board ruins the vibe.
🪞 Mirrors to Amplify Space
Mirrors aren’t just for checking your reflection—they’re secret weapons for making industrial kitchens feel airy. A large, arched mirror with a blackened frame propped above cabinets reflects your pendant lights and brick walls, doubling the drama. I leaned a round, rusted mirror against the wall up there, and it’s like my kitchen grew an extra 50 square feet. Mix in smaller mirrors for a eclectic, collected look, but keep frames cohesive—too much variety screams chaos.
🪞 Idea: Angle mirrors to reflect a statement chandelier or exposed ductwork.
🔍 Tip: Antique mirrors with patina add character without trying too hard.
✨ Pro Move: Pair with string lights for a dreamy, urban glow.
🌸 Flower Pots & Planters for Earthy Vibes
Flower pots and planters bring the outdoors in, grounding the industrial edge with earthy charm. Think glazed ceramic pots in muted greens or blues, or go full grit with concrete planters. I lined up a row of tiny cacti in geometric pots, and they’re like little sentinels guarding my kitchen’s aesthetic. Mix in seasonal blooms for color pops, but keep it sparse—industrial kitchens don’t do fussy.
🌼 Idea: Use tiered stands for planters to add height and depth.
🌿 Tip: Incorporate moss or pebbles around pots for a natural, rugged look.
🪴 Pro Move: Repurpose old metal cans as planters for a recycled, steampunk twist.
Decorating above cabinets in industrial kitchens is like staging a play—every piece needs to sing, but the ensemble must harmonize. Mix plants, mirrors, candles, and storage with an eye for texture and scale, and you’ll turn that forgotten space into the kitchen’s crowning glory. As designer Nate Berkus once said, “Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love.” So, raid that flea market, repurpose that rusty tin, and let your kitchen’s story shine.