Every home has certain spots that tend to get a little neglected, either left to gather dust and cobwebs or used as somewhere to pile up all those bits and bobs that have never really been given a proper home – in my case, this is the space between my wall units and the ceiling. In fact, this area falls into both the dust-gathering and clutter-filled categories and definitely wasn't part of my original kitchen design.
While the two wall units are not too bad in terms of clutter, it is the tall larder unit that really needs to be addressed. We have a sloping ceiling in the kitchen and so stopped a couple of feet shy of the full ceiling height. The space here is too high to reach without the help of a little stool, meaning that anything that gets shoved up there usually stays there for some time – empty jam jars, seldom-used cake tins, random gadgets that seemed like a good idea at the time (vintage cream maker anyone?)
Lately this high level jumble has really begun to bug me, ruining what is otherwise a pretty tidy and ordered space, so I reached out to the experts to ask them for their favourite ways of using this space. Here's the 10 I'm thinking of implementing.
Article continues below1. Take it all the way to the ceiling
Most of the designers I spoke to were keen to stress that their preference is for kitchen units that reach all the way to the ceiling and, as we are remodelling our kitchen in the not-too-distant future, this is something I am definitely considering.
"One of the things we focus on when designing a kitchen is ensuring the space is used to its full potential," picks up Emily Newmarch, design consultant at Kitchens by Holloways. "Often the area above wall units becomes either wasted space or somewhere that collects clutter and dust, so our preference is usually to design cabinetry that runs all the way to the ceiling wherever possible.
"By extending units to the full height of the room, you not only maximise storage but also create a much cleaner and more architectural look," continues Emily. "It avoids that awkward gap above cabinetry and allows the kitchen to feel more considered and cohesive. The upper sections of tall cabinetry can be used for less frequently accessed items such as larger cookware or seasonal appliances, keeping the everyday working areas below clear and organised."
Emily is a design consultant at Kitchens by Holloways, a design and build company who create bespoke kitchens and thoughtfully planned interiors. Known for their holistic approach, the team considers not just the kitchen but the overall layout – whether it's a single room, an open-plan space or an entire home – to deliver beautiful, functional designs that enhance everyday living.
2. Use it as a carefully-curated display ledge
It is important to remember that your kitchen ideas don't have to solely focus on practical solutions – there should always be room for some decorative flourishes and this is where that seemingly awkward above-unit space can come in handy.
"If the gap above cabinetry is intentional, it can work beautifully as a display ledge," says Alex Main, director of Main, although he goes to explain the importance of doing this in a thoughtful way.
"Rather than filling it with everyday clutter, the key is to keep styling minimal and cohesive," says Alex. "Larger decorative objects, ceramics, or a few sculptural pieces tend to work best as they read clearly from a distance and avoid the space feeling busy."
Alex Main is director at Main, a family-run company that has been creating highly individual bespoke kitchens that are full of personality and unique style since the 1970s. The family business has built up its knowledge from the vast experience gained from trading within the national and international markets.
3. Light it with a soft glow
Whether you choose to use it for storage or as a display space, including that above-unit area in your kitchen lighting design will ensure it adds to the space aesthetically, avoiding it sitting there looking sad and forgotten-about.
"For those with small kitchens, using lighting above kitchen cabinets can enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the space," reveals Massimo Buster Minale, founder and creative director of Buster + Punch. "One effective technique is up-lighting, where lights are installed above kitchen units to create a warm, soft glow. This not only makes the kitchen feel more inviting but also helps it appear larger. Up-lighting is particularly effective in kitchens with gaps between the ceiling and the units, as it illuminates these voids and prevents the area from looking dark and neglected. When paired with a dimmer, you can easily adjust both the light intensity and ambience to suit your needs."
"Discreet LED strip lighting above cabinets can also create a soft glow that highlights displayed objects and adds warmth and depth to the kitchen in the evening," points out Alex Main.
Massimo Buster Minale is an architect, industrial designer and the founder and creative director of Buster + Punch. Established over a decade ago, his London-born label has grown into a leading global name in interior detailing, acclaimed for its use of solid metal to turn everyday fittings into bold design statements with an unmistakable attitude.
4. Use it for beautiful storage solutions
This is an idea that particularly appeals to me. Despite having plenty of cabinetry, I am always after more kitchen storage ideas. There just never seems to be enough and the space above my units – and fridge for that matter – could be used so much better in this way.
“Above kitchen cabinets and the fridge can be used for storage in all kinds of kitchens, but is particularly useful in small spaces," says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr. "Items that you don’t use often, such as special occasion crockery and baking supplies can easily be stored out of the way above kitchen cabinets.
"You can use baskets or boxes that match the decor of your kitchen to keep everything neat and tidy, avoiding clutter.”
Al Bruce is the founder of Olive & Barr, a British kitchen brand known for creating thoughtfully designed kitchens that balance timeless style with practical, everyday living.
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This sturdy basket is made from seagrass which is particularly durable. Perfect for all kinds of bits and pieces, it can also be folded away when not needed. Group baskets together and conceal all that clutter stylishly.
Perfect for stowing away items that don't get used very often thanks to the lid which will keep them free from dust and cobwebs until you need them next. It is also roomy enough for even small appliances.
Available in a range of stylish colours, this handmade storage hamper features a protective lid as well as a lining that not only adds a little country-chic but also a level of protection to its contents.
5. Get creative with your organisation methods
My go-to for storing anything that won't fit in a cupboard or drawer in our house always seems to be a good old wicker basket – but Becca Stern, co-founder and creative director of Mustard Made, is keen to point out that there are lots of other, slightly more inventive methods to consider too.
“I'm sure we've all been guilty of a little clutter blindness at some point," picks up Becca. "De-cluttering your entire home in one day can definitely feel overwhelming, but small thoughtful changes can make the world of difference, starting with investing in storage that adapts as your life changes.
"Think adjustable kitchen shelving ideas, hooks and extra hanging options as well as baskets – smart add-ons that help you maximise every centimetre of space and keep areas like the space above kitchen units looking organised rather than cluttered.”
Becca is creative director and co-founder of Mustard Made, along with sister Jess. Mustard Made specialises in metal lockers in all kinds of styles and colours and is the result of the sisters' meticulous research into creating perfect products.
6. Build on top of the existing units
With the help of an experienced kitchen designer, there is nothing to stop you adding another level on top of your existing wall units – although it does need to be designed to tie in seamlessly with their design and thought will need to be given to supporting the extra weight this could add – this is often best done as part of a kitchen renovation project.
“In many cases, extending kitchen cabinetry all the way to the ceiling is the simplest way to avoid awkward dead space," advises Alex Main. "This approach creates a more seamless, architectural look while preventing the top of cabinets from becoming a dust trap. It can also maximise storage, particularly in small kitchens where every inch counts.
"The success of this space often comes down to proportion," continues Alex. "When planning a kitchen, designers will usually consider ceiling height, cabinet scale and sightlines to ensure the gap above units feels intentional. In some homes, a small margin works well, while in others a deeper display ledge can add character.”
7. Use wallpaper to turn the space into a feature
Using kitchen wallpaper ideas is not just a brilliant way to add character and visual movement into the space, but it can also help avoid the area above units looking like an afterthought.
By using wallpaper for those sections of wall not being used for cabinetry, they become a feature in their own right as opposed to blank, unloved spots with nothing in the way of visual interest.
If you were wondering the wisdom of using wallpaper in a kitchen, you'll be pleased to learn that there are plenty of designs out there that are produced specifically to withstand temperature fluctuations and high humidity levels.
8. Use ceiling glazing to light it up
It isn't just artificial lighting that can be used to brighten up the area above wall units – ceiling glazing and rooflights can also work wonders here.
Creating a kitchen extension, either rear or side, often presents the ideal opportunity for incorporating some overhead glazing, whether that is in the form of a bank of rooflights, a single glazed strip or a stand-out roof lantern.
Locate your ceiling glazing of choice over your wall units and not only will it bring light streaming in but it will also make it easier to see what you are keeping there and turn it into an interesting feature.
9. Adorn it with greenery
We all know how important bringing a touch of nature into our homes can be when it comes to creating a sense of wellbeing, so take every opportunity you can to incorporate a little greenery into the kitchen if you want it to be a beneficial place to spend time in – and, lets face it, this tends to be the room we all seem to inhabit the most.
Adorning the top of your wall units with plants not only adds a pop of colour and interest, but it can also help with more serious issues such as mould and condensation.
Take a look at bathroom plants that absorb moisture as many of the same species will also work well in the kitchen – just ensure you take into account how much light they need to thrive too.
10. Provide a way of accessing the space easily
And, finally, to avoid having to teeter on your worktops or drag a chair away from your dining table each time you want to access anything you have chosen to store up on top of your kitchen cabinets, be sure to think through how you will get up there.
One of the best ways of providing a way up to the top of your units – that also happens to look rather chic – is by using a library ladder set on a sliding rail, just, as the name suggests, you might find in a well-stocked library.
Some of these ladders are available to fit on a DIY basis, while others can be designed by kitchen specialists to tie in visually with your units.
FAQs
Should you always take kitchen cabinets up to ceilings?
While the idea of using every single inch of wall space for cabinets might seem like a good one, particularly for those after small kitchen ideas looking for ways in increase their storage capacity, this is not always the best approach.
“In taller rooms, I'd avoid cabinetry that runs all the way up to the ceiling," warns Al Bruce. "Allowing the kitchen to sit comfortably within the architecture, rather than dominating it, creates a more balanced, considered look. The kitchen should feel like it belongs in the room, not like it’s trying to become part of the structure itself.”
Besides, as Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL, points out, there are other ways to meet your storage requirements.
"Use your imagination and make really clever use of alcoves, sides of chimney breasts and hallways by creating simple, organised storage," says Helen. "An unused space in your home can easily become an invaluable place to neatly store your things."
Helen was promoted to the position of Creative Director at DeVOL in 2011 after showing an innate ability to forecast trends and give deVOL a style direction. She is also responsible for styling, sourcing and buying all the antiques and gifts on display at the DeVOL showroom.
If you love the idea of a completely streamlined design and are keen to avoid even a hint of clutter, check out some concealed kitchen storage ideas – perfect for the minimalists out there.
