TL;DR
A Good Housekeeping report outlines 11 ways to use the often-unused space above kitchen cabinets, including baskets for infrequently used items, decorative displays, plants and built-in cubbies. The suggestions are design ideas, not tested claims about storage performance; suitability depends on the kitchen layout and how accessible or cleanable the space is.
Good Housekeeping has published 11 ideas for using the often awkward gap above kitchen cabinets, suggesting options that range from wicker baskets and backup pantry goods to artwork, plants and built-in cubbies. The list offers homeowners ways to put the high, frequently unused area to work, while noting that some displays—such as cookbooks—are better suited to decoration than regular access.
Several suggestions focus on concealed storage. The report recommends placing wicker baskets above cabinets to hold infrequently used items, such as small appliances, seasonal dish towels or backup ingredients. It also describes storing unopened spices or pasta in baskets or in cubbies made with dividers. These approaches keep items out of sight, though the source does not assess the weight limits or dimensions of individual cabinets.
For pantry overflow, the article suggests putting reserve ingredients and food containers in the high space. Examples include coffee, seltzer, flour, sugar and grains that are not used every day. The report presents decorative jars and baskets as ways to make storage look intentional. It does not provide food-storage guidance about sealing, temperature, humidity or shelf life, so pantry goods should be stored according to their labels and kept in suitable containers.
Other ideas treat the area as a display zone: lean artwork against the wall, arrange vases or sculptures, or show cookbooks on open shelving. Good Housekeeping cautions that cookbooks placed high up may be difficult to retrieve routinely. Its remaining suggestions include growing houseplants where the light is suitable, layering small decorative objects, using natural textures such as wicker and rattan, and adding a statement light fixture to draw attention upward.
Storage Without Losing Counter Space
The ideas address a common kitchen trade-off: keeping worktops clear while finding room for backup supplies and household items. Using the space above cabinets may free lower cupboards for things used more often, while decorative arrangements can make an otherwise bare gap feel connected to the room.
The high location also comes with practical limits. Items stored there may be difficult to reach, and exposed objects can collect dust or cooking residue. The article’s suggestions are most useful when matched to the room: store only light, rarely needed items where access is awkward, and reserve display space for pieces that can be safely supported and cleaned.
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From Baskets to Built-In Cubbies
The report, written by Good Housekeeping contributor Alyssa Gautieri, brings together examples from designers, home bloggers and interior photographs. Its 11 ideas fall into three broad groups: storage in baskets or containers, decorative displays, and changes to the space itself, such as adding dividers to create cubbies.
Some examples are attributed to specific design sources in the article, including a kitchen by Proem Studio with houseplants above the cabinets and cookbook styling by designer Jenn Feldman. The report does not present these as a comparison or a ranked list; they are options for different kitchen layouts and decorating preferences.
““It’s more about decor, it will be too difficult to pull them down on a regular basis.””
— Good Housekeeping, on displaying cookbooks above cabinets
decorative kitchen display shelves
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Access, Dust and Load Limits
The report does not say how much weight particular cabinets can support, whether any listed arrangement suits every kitchen, or how to secure objects against movement. It also gives no measurements, installation instructions or cost estimates for adding dividers or lighting. Readers should check cabinet construction and the manufacturer’s guidance before placing heavy objects or modifying cabinetry.
Practical details vary by home. Light, access and heat can affect whether plants or stored goods are appropriate above a particular cabinet, while open displays may need frequent cleaning. The article does not set out cleaning schedules or food-safety standards.
plant pots for high kitchen cabinets
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Choosing an Idea for Your Kitchen
The source presents the ideas as inspiration rather than announcing a product, renovation standard or follow-up project. A homeowner considering the space can start by measuring the gap, deciding whether the priority is hidden storage or display, and checking what can be reached safely. Items used often are better kept within easy reach; high shelves are more suited to lightweight decor or supplies needed only occasionally.
Before adding cubbies, lighting or other fixtures, readers should confirm that the cabinet structure and installation plan can support the change. The source material provides no further update or date for additional guidance.
built-in cubby storage for kitchen
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Key Questions
What can be stored above kitchen cabinets?
Good Housekeeping suggests infrequently used items, including backup pantry goods, small appliances and seasonal dish towels, often stored in baskets or containers. Keep food in suitable, sealed containers and follow product-label storage instructions.
Are cookbooks practical to keep above cabinets?
The report says cookbooks can work as a decorative display, but may be difficult to pull down regularly. Keep frequently used books somewhere easier to reach.
How can the space look less cluttered?
Use baskets to conceal small items, group display pieces, or choose a consistent material such as wicker or rattan. The article also suggests artwork, plants and a limited arrangement of vases or sculptures.
What should I check before adding storage cubbies?
Measure the available space and check the cabinets’ construction and load limits before adding dividers or placing items above them. The source provides no installation specifications, so structural questions may require a qualified installer.
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