What Is the Area Above Cabinets Called? Kitchen Design Term Explained

The space above kitchen cabinets, often simply referred to as the "top of the cabinets," represents a significant architectural element in room design. This zone, frequently ignored during the initial planning phase, becomes a focal point for dust accumulation and visual clutter if left unaddressed. Understanding what this specific area is called is the first step toward transforming it from an awkward gap into a functional or aesthetic asset within your home.

Defining the Space: The Correct Terminology

So, what is area above cabinets called? The most common and practical term is the crown area or crown molding zone. While "crown molding" specifically refers to the decorative trim piece installed at the junction where the cabinet top meets the wall, the area itself is often labeled the crown area. In construction and design circles, you might also hear it referred to as the apex of the cabinetry run, highlighting its position as the highest point in the room's vertical landscape.

The Role of Crown Molding

Crown molding is the finishing touch that defines this area, acting as the elegant border between your walls and the cabinetry. It is not merely decorative; crown molding serves to hide the harsh line where the ceiling meets the cabinets, creating a smoother visual transition. Choosing the right profile for this element can dramatically shift the room's character, adding sophistication or a rustic charm depending on the style selected.

Functional Solutions for the Crown Area

Leaving the crown area as bare wall space is common, but it often results in a disconnected look and a dust trap. A highly effective solution is installing open shelving in this zone. By replacing the upper cabinets with shelves, you turn a dead space into a display area for cookbooks, plants, or cherished dishware, injecting personality and maximizing utility without blocking the wall.

Installing Glass Front Cabinets

For those who prefer concealed storage, reaching the area above cabinets requires a permanent solution. Glass front cabinets or tall pantries installed directly above the base units extend the storage height significantly. This approach closes off the crown area cleanly, creating a seamless vertical storage column that is both efficient and visually tidy, eliminating the gap where dust collects.

Aesthetic Considerations and Design Tips

The visual treatment of the crown area can make or break the kitchen's harmony. Painting the wall section a different shade—often a darker tone than the cabinets—creats the illusion of height, making the room feel grander. Conversely, painting it the same color as the cabinets produces a cohesive, receding effect that visually lowers the ceiling, which is beneficial in rooms with high vaulted ceilings.

Color and Lighting Strategies

Strategic lighting is crucial for this high zone. Installing small LED puck lights inside open shelves or under the cabinets illuminates the displayed items and draws the eye upward, highlighting the design choice. Additionally, incorporating a decorative backsplash that extends slightly above the cabinet tops provides a clean canvas for the wall paint, ensuring the transition remains sharp and intentional.

Practical Maintenance Tips

Accessibility remains the primary challenge for maintaining this zone. Dust accumulation is inevitable on horizontal surfaces, so consider the frequency of cleaning when designing the area. If you opt for permanent cabinets, ensure they are set slightly back from the wall during installation. This gap, though minor, prevents the cabinets from directly touching the wall, allowing for easier dusting and preventing potential moisture damage to the paint or drywall.