10 Decor Ideas for that Weird Space Over Your Doorway

Written by

Jennifer Hunter
Jennifer Hunter
Jennifer spends her days writing and thinking about decor, food and fashion in NYC. Not too shabby.
updated Jun 22, 2023
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(Image credit: Cathy Pyle)

That strange strip of wall sandwiched between your ceiling and the top of a door frame has always been a kind of no man’s land, decor-wise. Like a tough-to-decorate, awkward corner, it’s usually not big enough for any major statement, but it’s not small enough to ignore without feeling like you’re missing an opportunity.   These above door decor ideas are sure to elevate any room in your home, whether you’re decorating on a budget or just need a quick refresh.  . 

Above: why should your shelves stop just because there’s a door opening?

1. Get Patriotic.

In the space above their door, the owner of this Oakland, California living room chose to hang an American flag. It serves both as a meaningful wall hanging and a clever way to filter bright sunlight coming in from the window above the door.

2. Frame it out.

While it may not exactly qualify as above door decor, we love the beautiful entryway framed with a rich tone of wood in this cozy Michigan home. It gently draws the eye to the opening without breaking the clean lines of the space. 

(Image credit: Mike Hetu)

3. Paint it.

Use the power of paint to bring interest, even in a tiny sliver of space. The archway in this historic Michigan home is defined both by paint and molding, which leads the eye upward, creating the illusion of a larger space. 

(Image credit: Bethany Kehdy)

4. Hang a lucky charm.

Try displaying a horseshoe, like the understated one shown in this bright, airy space, for all the good luck you can handle. 

(Image credit: Jessica Isaac)

5. Add something that speaks to your personality.

Go really (really!) bold like Brandon, who chose to add a rustic, natural feel to his bold, bright space by hanging opposing pitchforks. If nothing else, they’re sure to start a conversation or two! 

(Image credit: Bethany Nauert)

6. Show off a collection.

In this eclectic space, it’s plates. But you could arrange just about anything as above door decor, as long as it’s large enough to be visible, and isn’t overly detailed (since the details would likely not be visible). 

(Image credit: Marie-Lyne Quirion)

7. Keep it simple.

Let the wall itself be the decorative feature. A uniquely shaped archway defines the space between the living and dining rooms in this dramatic Toronto bungalow. 

(Image credit: Bridget Pizzo)

8. Make it all about you.

Put up something that will make you smile every time you walk through the door. Who wouldn’t get a grin out of this simple but kitschy gold smiley face? 

(Image credit: Monique Larroux)

9. Add some texture.

Spice up your wall with molding for texture, like you see in the oversized entryway in this bohemian Tennessee home. The eye could get lost as a result of the dramatic black staircase, but the fresh white detailing above the opening really helps balance things out.  

(Image credit: Jacqueline Marque)

10. Measure it out.

Repurpose a sign or other art in just the right specific shape, like the oversized vintage sign in this vibrant, art-filled New Orleans home

(Image credit: Caitlyn Cartlidge)

11. Let in the light.

 Try a transom window to let in extra light. The entryway in this idyllic Maryland townhouse, which could otherwise feel dark and drab, utilizes this technique.