The space above kitchen cabinets is one of those decorating spots that people either completely ignore… or fill with random baskets they bought in 2018 and forgot about. 😅
Summer is the perfect time to refresh that area and make your kitchen feel lighter, brighter, and more seasonal without doing a full renovation.
The trick? Keep it simple. The best summer decor above kitchen cabinets feels intentional—not cluttered.
Here are 12 easy summer decor ideas for above kitchen cabinets that instantly make your kitchen feel fresh and inviting.
1. Layer Faux Greenery
Nothing says summer quite like fresh greenery.
Place:
- Eucalyptus garlands
- Olive branches
- Faux ivy
- Fern stems
Styling tip: Let some greenery gently drape over the cabinet edge for a softer look.
Why it works: Adds life and color without overwhelming the space.
2. Display Woven Baskets
Summer and natural textures go hand in hand.
Use:
- Rattan baskets
- Seagrass baskets
- Woven trays
Why it hits: Adds warmth and texture while hiding visual emptiness.
3. Add White Ceramic Vases
Simple and timeless.
Group a few white ceramic vases of different heights together.
Why it works: Brightens the kitchen and keeps the styling clean.
4. Style Coastal-Inspired Decor
Bring subtle vacation vibes home.
Try:
- Driftwood pieces
- Glass bottles
- Coastal-inspired accents
- Neutral shells
Why it hits: Feels relaxed without becoming overly beach-themed.
5. Use Oversized Lanterns
Lanterns create height and visual interest.
Choose:
- White lanterns
- Wooden lanterns
- Natural woven lanterns
Why it works: Fills vertical space beautifully.
6. Create a Lemon-Themed Display 🍋
Summer kitchens love lemons.
Add:
- Faux lemons
- Lemon artwork
- Lemon-themed bowls
Hot tip: Keep it subtle so it feels chic rather than themed.
Why it hits: Bright, cheerful, and instantly seasonal.
7. Display Vintage Cutting Boards
Functional decor always wins.
Lean:
- Wooden cutting boards
- Bread boards
- Rustic serving boards
Why it works: Adds warmth and character.
8. Add Summer Artwork
Swap seasonal pieces for something lighter.
Ideas:
- Botanical prints
- Citrus artwork
- Coastal landscapes
- Herb illustrations
Why it hits: Gives the space a seasonal refresh.
9. Style Neutral Pitchers & Jugs
Large ceramic pitchers create beautiful visual balance.
Choose:
- White
- Cream
- Soft beige
Why it works: Looks collected and timeless.
10. Use Glass Jars for a Light Look
Clear glass reflects light beautifully.
Fill jars with:
- Dried lemons
- Shells
- Decorative beads
- Dried flowers
Why it hits: Keeps the display airy and bright.
11. Add Soft Summer Florals
Keep the colors muted.
Try:
- White hydrangeas
- Baby’s breath
- Lavender
- Eucalyptus stems
Why it works: Softens the overall look.
12. Keep It Minimal
Sometimes the best summer decor is less decor.
Choose:
- One large basket
- A few vases
- Some greenery
Then stop.
Why it hits: Summer styling should feel light and breathable, not crowded.
Summer Decor Colors That Work Best
For a fresh seasonal look, stick with:
- White
- Cream
- Beige
- Soft sage green
- Natural wood tones
- Light blue accents
These colors help kitchens feel brighter and more spacious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too Many Small Items
Small decor pieces often create visual clutter.
Instead, use fewer, larger items.
Overly Themed Decor
A few lemons? Cute.
Thirty lemon signs? Maybe not. 😅
Ignoring Height Variation
Use pieces with different heights to create visual interest.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Light & Fresh
The best summer decor above kitchen cabinets isn’t complicated.
Focus on:
- Greenery
- Natural textures
- Neutral colors
- A few seasonal touches
Because summer decorating should make your kitchen feel brighter—not busier.