Is Above Cabinet Decor Outdated?

Kitchen trends come and go, but one classic debate seems to persist – is decorating the top of your cabinets hopelessly outdated or a timeless way to showcase your style?

As a home improvement specialist who has helped remodel hundreds of kitchens over my career, I‘m here to provide some expertise and tips on this popular decorating dilemma. We‘ll explore whether above cabinet decor still has a place in today‘s kitchens or if the look is past its prime.

The History of Above Cabinet Decor

Before we weigh in on this debate, it helps to understand the history of decorating this space. Displaying plates, collectibles and meaning keepsakes in glass front cabinets emerged in the 18th century. The trend grew as kitchens shifted to the primary room for preparing meals and spending time as a family.

By the 1950s and 1960s, upper cabinets became a more affordable and accessible option as modular kitchens expanded in popularity. Homemakers eagerly filled the tops of these cabinets with their collections as a prominent display area.

This enthusiasm led to the cluttered, crowded aesthetic that many now associate with outdated above cabinet decor. But just like fashion, home trends often come back around if given a fresh, modern twist.

Pros of Decorating Above Cabinets

There are some solid reasons why people have been drawn to decorate this space for generations:

• Maximizes unused space: It puts an often forgotten area to work.

• Adds visual interest: It draws the eye up and gives personality.

• Convenient display space: It provides a perfect spot for collectibles.

• Extra storage: It allows you to organize items not used daily.

According to a 2020 survey by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, when asked about kitchen elements that make a space feel personalized, 39% of respondents chose decorative objects on top of cabinets. So the desire for this type of styling is clearly still strong among homeowners.

Cons of Above Cabinet Decor

Of course, there are also downsides that lead some to view this decorating trend as outdated:

• Gathering dust: Items displayed up high are hard to clean.

• Clutter: It‘s easy for the area to start looking messy and crowded.

• Difficult access: It‘s not convenient to access items stored up high.

• Distracting: Bold collections can sometimes feel too busy.

Interior designer Stephanie Jones advises, "Editing is key. Limit yourself to things you truly love or need. Tiny collections say modern, huge ones say outdated grandma."

Is This Trend Outdated?

Given the pros and cons, is above cabinet decor outdated? The answer is…it depends!

In a 2021 survey of interior designers by Houzz, 43% said styling open shelves or top of cabinets is out. But a similar number said it could work if done the right way.

The key is integrating this element seamlessly into your kitchen‘s overall aesthetic. While dusty figurines and eclectic collections may read as dated, thoughtful styling with modern pieces can absolutely still work.

Chrissy Ung, Founder of Toronto design firm ThinkChic Interiors explains:

"Like most design elements, above cabinet decor requires balance and restraint in order for it to feel fresh versus heavy and cluttered. When dealing with small spaces every square inch counts visually so it‘s integral to apply a minimalist approach."

So how can you achieve an updated look with your above cabinet decor? Here are my top tips as a home improvement specialist.

Designing Stylish, Modern Above Cabinet Decor

Follow these guidelines to give your above cabinet decor a fresh, contemporary look:

• Limit yourself to 1-3 items to avoid clutter.

• Choose decor in neutral palettes like white, wood tone, black or metallics.

• Spotlight greenery with mini herb gardens or succulents.

• Display meaningful objects like art, books or photos.

• Opt for modern styling with geometric designs rather than ornate and fussy pieces.

• Illuminate with sleek lighting like LED strips or mini pendants.

• Keep decor low profile so sight lines stay clean.

• Edit often and switch out decor seasonally.

• Incorporate closed storage like frosted glass door cabinets for items not on display.

Los Angeles kitchen designer Megan Miller explains her approach:

"I love to make the space functional by including hooks, racks or shelving. Then I‘ll style with just a couple decorative objects like candles, ceramics or greenery for an uncluttered look."

The key is restraint. Treat the area almost like an art gallery and curate a few special pieces to spotlight.

Here are some inspiring examples of above cabinet decor done in a modern, stylish way:

This kitchen stays contemporary with simple wood and marble ledges holding a short row of ceramics. The neutral color keeps it clean.

This light and airy kitchen uses greenery and metallics for its sparing above cabinet decor. The choices feel curated rather than random.

The bold black and white art makes a statement against the crisp white cabinets in this modern kitchen.

Alternatives to Decorating Above Cabinets

If the cluttered look of above cabinet decor just isn‘t your style, consider these gorgeous alternatives to make the most of that valuable space instead:

• Install a thick shelving ledger for cookbooks and barware

• Add a matching cabinet row to boost storage

• Extend your backsplash or wallpaper to the ceiling

• Hang a statement light fixture like a linear chandelier

• Use glass door cabinets to neatly tuck items away

• Display your favorite dishware in plate racks

• Create an accent wall with bold paint or texture

So you‘re definitely not limited to overloaded decorative collections! Choose the approach that aligns best with your personal taste and kitchen style.

The Verdict: Fresh Styling, Not Fuddy-Duddy

My expert opinion as a specialist who has remodeled and designed hundreds of kitchens? Above cabinet decor still has relevance in today’s kitchens when done in a pared back, stylish way.

The days of crowded collections and dusty trinkets are long gone. But modernized with restraint and care, this classic decorating idea can absolutely feel fresh and contemporary.

The key is curating special pieces you love rather than displaying for the sake of filling space. When styled appropriately, this often overlooked area can be a beautiful focal point and an opportunity to showcase your personal style.

So be bold, get creative and embrace the things that bring you joy. With a minimalist approach and a dash of your favorite decor, you can absolutely give above cabinet decor a modern, stylish spin. Break the outdated home rules and design a kitchen that perfectly fits you!