area above kitchen cabinets called

Based on the search results, the space above kitchen cabinets is most commonly referred to by the following terms:

​Soffit​

This is the ​primary architectural term​ for the box-like structure above cabinets, designed to conceal pipes, ductwork, or wiring. The word originates from the French "soffite," meaning "underside of a ceiling" .

Historically common in homes built from the ​1960s onward, soffits were initially functional elements but now often serve decorative purposes .

​Furdown or Bulkhead​

These terms are used ​interchangeably with "soffit"​​ in some regions or design contexts. Both describe the enclosed space bridging the gap between the top of cabinets and the ceiling .

​Colloquial Names​

​​"Dead Space"​: Highlights its typical underutilization .

​​"Plant Shelf"​: A nostalgic term referencing the trend of displaying plants in this area, though it is less common today due to dust accumulation concerns .

​​"Cabinet Ceiling"​: Refers to the surface directly above cabinets when no soffit exists, often covered with drywall or paneling .

Key Clarifications:

Soffits are ​structural, while "furdown," "bulkhead," and "plant shelf" are ​descriptive terms​ for the same space.

In modern kitchens without soffits (e.g., cabinets extending to the ceiling), the flat surface atop cabinets is simply called the ​​"space above cabinets"​​ .

💡 ​Why It Matters: Understanding these terms helps when discussing kitchen renovations. For example, removing a soffit ("soffit removal") can create taller cabinets or open shelving .