That metal hood above your stove? It’s a kitchen eyesore that collects grease while breaking up your beautiful cabinet line. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
Range hood covers transform this functional necessity into a stunning design feature. They hide the industrial-looking vent while extending your style throughout the entire kitchen.
As a kitchen designer for over 15 years, I’ve seen how the right hood cover can become the focal point of the entire space. I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners solve this common problem.
In this guide, I’ll share seven tested cover ideas that work with any budget or style. From rustic wood enclosures to sleek modern designs, these solutions will help you turn that ugly metal hood into your kitchen’s crown jewel. Let’s transform that eyesore into something truly special.
Creative Range Hood Cover Ideas for Your Kitchen
Turn your kitchen’s standard vent hood into an eye-catching feature with these seven unique cover ideas. From wood beams to smooth cabinet designs, learn how to combine usefulness with beauty in your cooking space.
1. Rustic Wood Beam Range Hood Cover
I installed one of these in my own kitchen last year, and it completely transformed the space. There’s something magical about weathered wood above a modern stove.
Rustic beam covers use reclaimed barn wood, rough-hewn timber, or new wood that’s been stained and distressed. The natural grain and character instantly warm up your kitchen.
You can go fully rustic with visible joints and rough edges, or clean it up with mitered corners for a more polished farmhouse look.
What makes it work:
- The natural wood tones bring warmth to kitchens with lots of cold surfaces
- Each piece of wood tells a story through its unique grain and character
- Creates a perfect bridge between modern appliances and traditional design
Pro tip: Apply a food-safe sealant that can handle heat and moisture. Kitchen grease finds every unsealed surface, and you’ll want to wipe this clean easily.
2. Shiplap Style Hood Cover
Ever noticed how a simple pattern of horizontal lines can make a space feel bigger? That’s the magic of shiplap hood covers, they add texture without overwhelming your kitchen.
I love shiplap covers because they work in almost any white kitchen but still add character. The subtle shadow lines create interest without demanding attention.
You can paint them to match your cabinets or go with a contrasting color for more drama.
Why homeowners love it:
- Easy DIY project using peel-and-stick products or MDF boards
- Creates a coastal vibe that feels both relaxed and put-together
- Can be installed in a weekend with basic tools
My clients report this is one of the most beginner-friendly kitchen upgrades. If you can use a nail gun and cut straight lines, you can handle this project!
3. Custom Built-In Cabinet-Style Hood
Want your range hood to virtually disappear? Cabinet-style covers create that high-end, seamless look that makes designers swoon.
These covers extend your cabinetry around and above the hood, creating the illusion of a fully built-in kitchen. No visual disruption – just clean, consistent lines.
I recommend this style when you want your backsplash or countertops to be the star of the show.
Design elements to consider:
- Match the exact door style, hardware, and finish as your existing cabinets
- Add crown molding at the top for a finished, custom look
- Consider glass-front cabinet doors on either side for display space
Remember to leave access panels so you can still service the hood motor and filters when needed. Even the prettiest cover needs practical functionality.
4. Industrial Metal Hood Cover
Not all kitchen elements need to blend in. Metal hood covers make a bold statement that says, “I take cooking seriously.”
I’ve designed several professional-grade kitchens where the metal hood becomes the focal point. Think polished stainless steel, hammered copper, or even blackened steel with visible rivets.
These covers aren’t trying to hide the hood – they’re celebrating it.
Metals to consider:
- Copper develops a gorgeous patina over time (but requires more maintenance)
- Stainless steel offers timeless appeal and easy cleaning
- Zinc provides an old-world look that ages beautifully
Pair your metal hood with matching pot racks or lighting fixtures to tie the industrial elements together throughout your kitchen.
5. Arched or Curved Range Hood
Why settle for straight lines when curves create so much drama? An arched hood cover adds unexpected architecture to your cooking space.
I designed a curved plaster hood for a client’s Mediterranean kitchen, and it transformed the entire room. The soft arch created a natural focal point that drew everyone’s eye.
These hoods feel custom and high-end, even when built from simple materials.
Ways to enhance the curve:
- Add decorative corbels or brackets underneath for extra visual support
- Paint with limewash or textured finish for old-world charm
- Install sconces on either side to highlight the graceful shape
Building curves requires more skill than straight-line projects. Consider hiring a professional for this style unless you have solid carpentry experience.
6. Tile-Clad Hood Cover
Who says backsplashes should have all the fun? Extending your tile work onto your hood creates a seamless, eye-catching feature wall.
I recently completed a kitchen with cobalt blue zellige tiles that flowed from backsplash right onto the hood. The continuous pattern made the space feel larger and more cohesive.
Your range hood becomes a canvas for artistic expression with this approach.
Tile options with major impact:
- Handmade zellige for organic texture and color variation
- Bold geometric patterns for modern kitchens
- Vintage-inspired penny tile for timeless charm
Just be sure to use tiles rated for heat and easy cleaning. That beautiful tile needs to stand up to cooking splatter and regular wiping.
7. Faux Mantel Range Hood
Turn your cooking area into the hearth of your home with a mantel-style hood. These covers frame your range like a fireplace, creating a natural gathering spot.
I love how these designs nod to the traditional kitchen fireplaces of centuries past. There’s something inherently cozy about cooking beneath a mantel.
The built-in shelf also gives you display space for herbs, cookbooks, or seasonal décor.
Styling your mantel shelf:
- Keep items small and few – this isn’t a deep shelf
- Choose heat-resistant décor that can handle cooking steam
- Change displays seasonally to keep your kitchen feeling fresh
Make sure the mantel depth extends far enough to shield the controls but doesn’t interfere with your cooking. Function should always come before form in working kitchens.
Tips for Choosing the Right Range Hood Cover Style
- Choose a style that complements your existing kitchen design.
- Ensure your hood maintains proper clearance above the cooktop.
- Select easy-to-clean materials if you cook frequently.
- Taller ceilings can accommodate more dramatic hood designs.
- Never let decorative elements interfere with proper ventilation.
- Balance a statement hood with simpler cabinets and backsplash.
- Check that your design won’t block important kitchen lighting.
- Remember that textured surfaces collect more grease than smooth ones.
- Set a realistic budget before falling in love with custom designs.
Conclusion
After exploring these seven stunning options, you might be wondering which cover is right for your kitchen. The answer comes down to your personal style and how you use your space.
Think about what matters most in your kitchen. Are you all about that warm, inviting feeling? A rustic beam or mantel hood might be your match. Love clean lines and minimalism? The cabinet-style cover creates that seamless look.
Remember that your range hood cover doesn’t just hide an appliance, it creates a focal point that pulls your entire kitchen design together. This relatively small project makes a surprisingly big impact.
Don’t be afraid to blend ideas or customize these concepts for your unique space. Some of my favorite kitchens combine elements like a cabinet-style hood with shiplap details or an arched design with tile accents.
Whatever style you choose, a thoughtful range hood cover transforms the heart of your home from merely functional to truly exceptional. Now go create that kitchen you’ve been dreaming about!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a professional to install a range hood cover?
It depends on the complexity of your chosen design. Simpler covers like shiplap or basic wood boxes can be DIY projects if you have moderate carpentry skills. However, curved hoods, cabinet-style covers that match existing cabinetry, or anything involving electrical work should be handled by professionals. Always prioritize safety with any project involving your range hood’s ventilation system.
How do I clean and maintain my range hood cover?
For wooden covers, use a damp cloth with mild soap for regular cleaning and apply a fresh coat of sealant annually. Tile surfaces can be wiped with standard kitchen cleaners, while metal hoods typically need specific cleaners (stainless steel cleaner for stainless, etc.). All covers should be wiped down weekly to prevent grease buildup, and you should still maintain the actual hood filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Will adding a decorative cover affect my range hood’s ventilation?
A properly designed cover shouldn’t impact functionality if you maintain the manufacturer’s recommended clearances. Never block vents or reduce the hood’s height above the cooking surface. Most decorative covers are built around the functional hood rather than replacing it. Always ensure your design allows access to filters and controls for cleaning and maintenance.
What’s the typical cost range for a custom hood cover?
DIY shiplap or basic wood covers can cost as little as $100-300 in materials. Mid-range options like tile-covered hoods or custom wood designs typically run $500-1,000 installed. High-end custom cabinet-matched covers or specialty metal hoods can range from $1,500-3,000+. The final cost depends on your materials, complexity, and whether you hire professionals.
Can I install a decorative cover over any type of range hood?
Most decorative covers work with standard under-cabinet or chimney-style hoods. Island hoods present more challenges since they’re visible from all sides. Before planning your cover, check your hood’s installation manual for clearance requirements and ventilation needs. Some high-performance professional-grade hoods have specific airflow requirements that might limit covering options.
