What Is The Wall Above Kitchen Cabinets Called

If you’ve ever looked up in your kitchen and wondered about that empty space, you’re not alone. What is the wall above kitchen cabinets called? The space above kitchen cabinets is often referred to as the soffit or bulkhead.

This area can be a source of confusion, a design challenge, or a huge opportunity for extra storage and style. Knowing its proper name is the first step to making the most of it.

This guide will explain everything about that space, from its standard names to clever ways you can use it.

The most common terms for this architectural feature are “soffit” and “bulkhead.” While often used interchangeably, there can be subtle differences based on construction and region.

A soffit typically refers to the enclosed space that fills the gap between the top of the wall cabinets and the ceiling. It’s usually a framed box-like structure. A bulkhead is a more general term for any lowered section of a ceiling, often used to conceal ductwork, pipes, or beams running across the room.

In many modern kitchens with standard ceiling heights, there is no soffit at all, leaving open space above the cabinets. This open area is simply called the space above the cabinets or the cabinet tops.

Primary Terms For The Space Above Cabinets

Let’s break down the main names you’ll hear.

Soffit: This is the built-in box that bridges the cabinet tops to the ceiling. It’s a permanent part of the kitchen’s structure.
Bulkhead: A broader term that can include soffits but also refers to any ceiling protrusion that houses utilities.
Furdown: A regional term, common in some areas, that is essentially synonymous with soffit.
Cabinet Overhead: A simple, descriptive term used in design and construction plans.
Open Space: When there is no soffit, this is the accurate description for the area.

Why Do Kitchen Soffits Exist?

Soffits weren’t just a random design choice. They served several practical purposes in older home construction.

To conceal plumbing, electrical wiring, HVAC ductwork, or structural beams that run along the perimeter of the kitchen.
To provide a finished look in homes where standard cabinets did not reach the often higher ceilings.
In some cases, they were used to create a consistent line for lighting fixtures.

Modern Trends And The Soffit Dilemma

Today, kitchen design has shifted. Higher cabinets and a desire for open, airy spaces have made soffits less popular.

Many homeowners in older houses choose to remove soffits during renovations to gain that extra storage height and modern look. However, removing a soffit is a project that requires checking for hidden utilities and potentially repairing the ceiling and walls.

Design Ideas For The Space Above Your Kitchen Cabinets

Whether you have a soffit or open space, this area is valuable real estate. Here are practical and stylish ways to use it.

For Kitchens With Open Space Above Cabinets

This blank canvas offers the most flexibility. The key is to decorate intentionally to avoid a cluttered feel.

Display Collections: Use it for decorative items like ceramic vases, antique pitchers, or a set of matching baskets. Group items in odd numbers for visual appeal.
Add Greenery: Place low-maintenance, trailing plants like pothos or philodendrons. They add life and soften the hard lines of the cabinets.
Functional Storage: Store infrequently used items in attractive baskets or bins, such as special occasion serving platters or holiday cookware.
Install Lighting: Adding LED strip lights along the top can create beautiful ambient lighting that makes the space feel larger.

For Kitchens With A Soffit Or Bulkhead

A soffit doesn’t have to be a design dead end. You can enhance it or work around it.

Paint It: Paint the soffit the same color as the ceiling to make it recede, or match it to the cabinet color for a unified, built-in look.
Add Molding: Installing crown molding along the bottom edge of the soffit can give it a more finished, intentional appearance.
Create Illusion: By painting the soffit and the ceiling the same color, you can visually minimize its presence.
Consider Removal: If you need more storage, consult a contractor to see if your soffit can be safely removed to allow for taller cabinets.

What To Avoid Placing Above Cabinets

Some items can make the space look messy or create maintenance headaches.

Avoid small, scattered knick-knacks that collect dust.
Steer clear of flammable materials near under-cabinet lighting or heat sources.
Don’t store heavy items that are difficult to retrieve safely.
Avoid very tall items that make the space feel cramped.

Practical Considerations And Maintenance

That high-up space has its own set of practical needs that are easy to overlook.

Cleaning The Area Above Cabinets

Dust and grease from cooking can accumulate quickly. Here’s a simple cleaning routine.

Use a long-handled duster weekly to remove loose dust.
Every few months, take down decorative items and wipe the cabinet tops and items with a damp microfiber cloth.
For grease film, use a degreasing kitchen cleaner diluted in warm water.
Dry the area thoroughly before replacing your items.

Measuring The Space For Upgrades

If you plan to add storage or decor, accurate measurements are crucial.

Measure the depth from the front to the back of the cabinet top.
Measure the height from the cabinet top to the ceiling or soffit.
Measure the total linear length of the space available.
Always account for clearance when choosing items, leaving a little space so they don’t look crammed in.

FAQ: Common Questions About The Space Above Kitchen Cabinets

Is It A Soffit Or A Bulkhead?

In everyday kitchen talk, the terms are often used to mean the same thing: the boxed-in area above the cabinets. Technically, a bulkhead is for utilities, and a soffit is the finished enclosure. For most homeowners, using either term is perfectly acceptable.

Can I Remove The Soffit Myself?

It depends. You must first determine what’s inside. If it’s empty, removal might be a straightforward drywall and framing job. If it houses wiring, ducts, or pipes, the project becomes more complex and usally requires a professional to reroute those systems.

What Is The Standard Height Between Cabinets And Ceiling?

With standard 30″ or 36″ tall wall cabinets and 8-foot ceilings, the gap is typically between 12 to 18 inches. Modern homes with taller ceilings or extended-height cabinets often have a smaller gap or none at all.

How Can I Make My Kitchen Soffit Look Better?

Painting it to match your ceiling or cabinets is the easiest fix. Adding crown molding can also give it a custom, built-in look that appears intentional rather than dated.

Should I Decorate The Space Above My Cabinets?

It’s a personal choice. In minimalist kitchens, leaving it empty creates a clean line. In others, decorated tops add personality and warmth. The key is to decorate with purpose—use larger items and maintain a cohesive theme to avoid visual clutter.

Understanding what the wall above kitchen cabinets is called gives you the knowledge to talk about it, plan for it, and design around it. Whether it’s a soffit, bulkhead, or open space, this often-overlooked area holds real potential. With a little thought, you can turn it from a forgotten gap into a functional and attractive part of your kitchen’s design.