Ever found yourself staring at the empty space above your kitchen cabinets, wondering what to call it? You're not alone. This often overlooked area is a prime spot for adding style and functionality to your space. So, what is the top of cabinets called?
In interior design and home decor, the top of cabinets is often referred to as the 'crown' or 'crown molding' of your cabinets. This term is used because, much like a crown on a king or queen, it sits atop your cabinets, adding a touch of elegance and completing the look of your space. However, it's not just about aesthetics. The top of cabinets also serves a practical purpose, helping to protect your walls from water damage and providing a surface for displaying decorative items.
Understanding the Crown of Cabinets
The crown of cabinets is essentially the top trim or molding that sits above your upper cabinets. It's typically made of wood, but can also be made from other materials like PVC or MDF. This decorative element is usually installed during cabinet installation, but can also be added later as a DIY project.
The crown of cabinets serves several purposes. Firstly, it provides a finished look to your cabinets, hiding the raw edge of the cabinet box and creating a seamless, polished appearance. Secondly, it helps to protect your walls from water damage. When water splashes onto the countertop, it can run back and collect at the top of the cabinets. The crown helps to direct this water away from the wall, preventing damage. Lastly, the crown of cabinets provides a surface for displaying decorative items, adding a personal touch to your space.
Types of Crown Molding
Crown molding comes in a variety of styles, from simple and modern to intricate and traditional. The type you choose will depend on your personal taste and the overall aesthetic of your space. Some common types of crown molding include:
- Cove Molding: This type of crown molding has a curved, concave shape that creates a soft, elegant look.
- Ovolo Molding: Ovolo molding features a convex curve, giving it a more dramatic, traditional look.
- Egg and Dart Molding: This type of crown molding features a repeating pattern of egg-shaped motifs and dart-shaped cuts, adding a touch of classical elegance to your space.
Installing Crown Molding
Installing crown molding can be a DIY project, but it does require some skill and the right tools. The process involves measuring and cutting the molding to fit the length of your cabinets, then using a nail gun or brad nailer to attach it to the top of the cabinets. It's important to ensure that the molding is level and that the joints are tight to create a seamless look.
If you're not comfortable tackling this project yourself, it's always a good idea to hire a professional. A skilled carpenter can ensure that your crown molding is installed perfectly, adding value and beauty to your space.
Making the Most of Your Cabinet Crown
Once your crown molding is installed, it's time to think about how to make the most of this often overlooked space. Here are a few ideas:
One of the most popular uses for the top of cabinets is as a display area. This space is perfect for showing off decorative items like vases, artwork, or family photos. Just be sure to choose items that are lightweight and won't damage the crown or the wall behind it.
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Lighting
Another great way to use the top of cabinets is to install lighting. Under-cabinet lighting can provide task lighting for your countertops, while overhead lighting can add ambient light to the room. Consider installing LED strip lights or puck lights for a modern, energy-efficient look.
Storage
If you're looking for more storage space, the top of cabinets can be a great place to add shelves. These can be used to store less frequently used items, freeing up space in your lower cabinets. Just be sure to choose shelves that are lightweight and sturdy enough to support the weight of the items you'll be storing.
Incorporating the top of cabinets into your design plan can add both style and functionality to your space. Whether you choose to use this space for display, lighting, or storage, the crown of your cabinets is a valuable asset that's worth paying attention to. So, the next time you're wondering what to call that space above your cabinets, remember that it's the crown - the elegant finishing touch that completes the look of your space.