When designing or remodeling a kitchen, one of the finishing touches that can really elevate the look is adding molding above the kitchen cabinets. Molding along the top of cabinetry can add visual interest, make the space look more polished, and help transition between the cabinets and the ceiling. There are a few common types of cabinet molding to consider using depending on the look you want to achieve.
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Crown Molding
Crown molding is perhaps the most popular type of cabinet molding. As the name suggests, crown molding has a regal, crowning effect when installed above kitchen cabinets. Crown molding typically projects downward from the top of the cabinets at about a 45 degree angle. The molding then meets the wall at close to a 90 degree angle. This creates an elegant triangular shape that frames the top of the cabinetry. Crown molding comes in different widths from just a couple inches to wider styles around 6 inches. The profile of crown molding can also vary from simple to highly ornamental.
Crown molding is best for adding a touch of luxury and architectural detail above cabinets. The angled shape nicely transitions from the horizontal cabinet tops to the vertical walls. Crown molding also casts some shadow lines that can add depth and interest to the kitchen. This traditional style molding can be painted or stained to match or contrast with the cabinets. Elaborate crown molding is well-suited for elegant, formal kitchens. Simple forms of crown can add subtle detail to contemporary kitchens.
Benefits of Crown Molding
- Sophisticated, finished look
- Transitions nicely from cabinets to walls
- Many elegant shapes and widths available
- Paint or stain to match or contrast cabinets
- Works in both traditional and contemporary kitchens
Flat Molding
As an alternative to ornate crown molding, some kitchens utilize simple flat molding above the cabinets. This molding is what it sounds like – a flat, narrow strip of wood installed horizontally along the top of the cabinetry. Flat molding is typically 1 to 3 inches wide. Unlike crown molding, it does not project downward from the cabinets at an angle.
The clean, straightforward lines of flat molding make it a good option to add subtle interest without overwhelming a space. It works well with flat panel or Shaker style cabinets that also have very simple styling. Flat molding can also help add definition above cabinets that are the same color as the walls, delineating where the cabinetry ends. The muted look of flat molding pairs nicely with contemporary and modern kitchen elements.
Benefits of Flat Molding
- Simple and understated
- Pairs well with flat panel cabinets
- Good for contemporary kitchens
- Paint or stain to coordinate with cabinets
- Affordable and easy to install
Picture Rail Molding
Picture rail molding is named for its traditional use as a rail to hang framed artwork from. It can also be utilized over kitchen cabinets to add a gracious, period touch. Picture rail molding attaches to the wall a few inches above the cabinet tops, rather than protruding from the tops of the cabinet frames. A small space is left between the bottom of the molding strip and the top of the cabinets.
Picture rail molding has a defining horizontal line that can help draw the eye along the run of cabinets. Leaving an air gap between the molding and cabinets also allows a sliver of the wall color to show through, rather than having cabinetry extend all the way to the ceiling. For kitchens with beadboard walls or other busy wallpaper, picture rail molding can provide a transition to anchor the cabinets without competing. The look of picture rail molding fits beautifully with traditional and cottage kitchen aesthetics.
Benefits of Picture Rail Molding
- Provides horizontal line defining top of cabinets
- Leaves space between molding and cabinets
- Fits with traditional, cottage, or country kitchens
- offsets cabinets from busy wallpaper
- Easy to install flush to wall
Shelf Molding
Shelf molding is related to picture rail molding but with the addition of an actual shelf surface. Shelf molding consists of a horizontal molding strip mounted to the wall above the cabinets. But rather than having an open gap to the cabinets, shelf molding has a bottom shelf attached below the top molding strip. This shelf can be quite narrow or have some depth to it.
The bottom shelf of this molding provides a perfect place to display decorative items above the kitchen cabinets. Vases, flowers, cookbooks, and artwork gain prominence in this location. For open shelving or glass cabinet kitchens without doors, shelf molding can help reduce dust and grease accumulation on the tops of cabinets. The shelf essentially functions as a cap. The overall look of shelf molding is a bit more built-out and substantial than basic picture rail molding.
Benefits of Shelf Molding
- Creates display space for decor
- Shelves protect open cabinets from dust
- Handy spot for frequently-used cookbooks
- Gives more substantial, built-out look
- Suits a variety of kitchen aesthetics
Rooftop Molding
Rooftop molding is named for its angular shape that mimics the lines of a roof. This molding attaches to the wall right above the tops of the upper cabinets. It starts flush to the wall and projects upward and outward at about a 45 degree angle. Rooftop molding is essentially like crown molding flipped upside down. The molding then runs horizontally along the wall, ending in another 45 degree angle corner.
This dynamic molding style adds interesting architectural lines above your cabinets. The “roof” effect can make a kitchen feel taller and more spacious. Rooftop molding is eye-catching and directs attention upwards. For contemporary open concept kitchens, rooftop molding can provide separation and definition between the kitchen and adjoining spaces. The molding helps delineate the kitchen area within a large, open room.
Benefits of Rooftop Molding
- Unique, roof-like shape
- Draws the eye upwards
- Can make space feel taller
- Defines kitchen in open floor plan
- Contemporary, architectural look
Light Rail Molding
Light rail molding gets its name from the rail system used for hanging lights. Light rail molding mounts directly to the wall above cabinets to provide a platform for installing pendant or track lighting. This molding is essentially a simple ledge that extends out perpendicular from the wall. Pendant cables or track heads can then attach to the underside of the molding.
In addition to its functional purpose, light rail molding creates a streamlined, geometric detail line over kitchen cabinets. The slim, discreet ledge casts a subtle shadow line to define the cabinetry. Light rail molding has a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic. For a super sleek look, cabinet tops can be extended to meet directly against the wall-mounted light rail.
Benefits of Light Rail Molding
- Provides attachment for pendant and track lights
- Streamlined, modern look
- Minimal visual weight over cabinets
- Cabinets can meet flush to wall-mounted molding
- Creates subtle shadow line
Dentil Molding
Dentil molding is characterized by its distinctive lined pattern. It consists of a horizontal molding strip with a series of small, tooth-like blocks spaced evenly underneath. This creates a dotted line effect along the length of the molding. The rows of blocks are referred to as dentils, hence the name dentil molding.
Dentil molding has a pronounced visual rhythm when installed over kitchen cabinets. The alternating lines and gaps provide depth and interest. Dentils work well in both traditional and contemporary kitchen settings. They can be subtle and understated or given more presence with wider molding and deeper dentil projections. Painting or staining dentils in a contrasting color to the cabinets can make them really stand out.
Benefits of Dentil Molding
- Unique lined, rhythmic pattern
- Provides depth and architectural interest
- Visually suits both modern and traditional kitchens
- Can be subtle or made to stand out
- Pair with open shelving or glass cabinets to highlight
Beaded Molding
As its name indicates, beaded molding incorporates a repeating bead detail. Small, half-circle ridges run horizontally along the face of the molding strip. Beaded molding has a delicate, ornamental look. When used over kitchen cabinets, the succession of curves creates a graceful, elegant impression.
Beaded molding has traditional roots, lending a historic charm to kitchens. The rounded bead design provides a softer contrast to the straight lines of cabinetry. For contemporary applications, beaded molding with slim, subtle beads can add tasteful accenting. Larger, more pronounced beads fit better in classic kitchen settings. Painting or glazing the recessed curves in a different hue than the surface adds additional depth.
Benefits of Beaded Molding
- Ornamental, decorative styling
- Traditional look with historical character
- Softer visual contrast to cabinets
- Slimmer beads work in modern kitchens
- Deep glazed beads perfect for traditional kitchens
Rope Molding
Rope molding, sometimes called rope edge molding, gets its name from the twisted rope shape it mimics along its bottom edge. The underside of the molding strip features rounded, half-circle indentations reminiscent of wound rope. The top side is typically flat with a straight edge. Rope molding provides a playful decorative accent.
When used above kitchen cabinetry, rope molding adds a casual, rustic charm. The textured rope design paired with cabinets gives a countryside kitchen feel. Rope molding also pairs well with exposed beams, brick walls, and visible vent hoods. For contemporary kitchens, slim rope molding can contribute subtle detailing. Wider styles make more of a statement for traditional kitchen aesthetics. Rope molding is often made from pine or poplar wood.
Benefits of Rope Molding
- Rustic, countryside look
- Twisted rope design along bottom edge
- Relaxed, informal style
- Works with exposed beams and bricks
- Usually made from inexpensive wood
Conclusion
Installing attractive molding above kitchen cabinets is one of the best ways to elevate the look of any kitchen. Crown molding may be the most popular option, but there are also lots of other molding styles that can be used to great effect over cabinetry. Slim and subtle or bold and pronounced, molding over kitchen cabinets makes a big impact aesthetically. Beyond just its visual appeal, molding helps transition and anchor the cabinetry to the surrounding space.
Consider the overall look you want for your kitchen along with your style and budget when selecting molding. Rustic rope molding conveys a different feel from intricately carved crown molding, for example. But all the various molding styles share the ability to impart a polished, finished look when affixed properly over your kitchen cabinetry.
| Molding Type | Characteristics | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Crown | Ornate, regal, triangular profile | Traditional and contemporary kitchens |
| Flat | Simple, narrow, subtle | Contemporary and modern kitchens |
| Picture Rail | Horizontal line, space between molding and cabinets | Traditional and cottage kitchens |
| Shelf | Includes bottom shelf for decor | Variety of kitchen aesthetics |
| Rooftop | Angular, roof-like shape | Contemporary, open concept kitchens |
| Light Rail | Simple ledge for attaching lights | Modern, minimalist kitchens |
| Dentil | Lined, rhythmic pattern | Traditional and modern kitchens |
| Beaded | Ornamental rows of half-circle beads | Traditional kitchens |
| Rope | Rustic rope-like shape along bottom | Country, informal kitchens |