Open Shelving Styling, Material, and Placement Tips
Open shelving isn't just storage, it's a kitchen style statement. Discover types, materials & perfect placement for an organized space.
Open shelving can instantly elevate your kitchen from a simple storage zone to a stylish and functional centerpiece. Whether you’re embracing a rustic, modern, or farmhouse aesthetic, choosing the right materials wood, metal, glass, or even brick adds personality and depth. If you’re planning a New York kitchen design, open shelving offers the perfect balance between beauty and practicality, maximizing wall space over counters, pantries, or corners while reflecting your unique style.
Spice up your kitchen with the charm of open shelving! It's more than just storage; it's a way to showcase your favorite dishes and cookware, transforming them into a decorative display. Imagine reaching for a mug and being greeted by a vibrant collection of teacups, each one a tiny piece of culinary art. Open shelves might require a bit more dusting, but that just becomes a delightful excuse to reconnect with your favorite serving platter, a chance to reminisce about all the delicious meals it's seen.
Now, let's explore the different ways you can incorporate open shelving into your kitchen.
Types of Open Shelving in Kitchens
You can choose from various kinds of open shelves for your kitchen.
Open shelving options by style
Rustic
If you want to create a cozy and warm atmosphere in your kitchen, go for a rustic style, with wood, metal accents, and industrial vibes. You can use reclaimed wood, pallets, or crates, to make your own open shelves, or buy them from a flea market or thrift store. You can also add some metal brackets, hooks, or baskets, to give your shelves some character and functionality. For your items, you can display your vintage dishes, mugs, jars, or cookbooks, and mix them with some plants, candles, or signs, to add some color and texture. Learn how to conquer luxury modern bathroom challenges on a budget and more with Conquer Luxury Modern Bathroom Challenges: Budget, & More.
Modern
If you prefer a sleek and minimalist look in your kitchen, opt for a modern style, with clean lines, geometric shapes, and glass shelves. You can use metal or wood frames, and mount them on the wall, or use floating shelves, to create a sense of space and light. You can also choose clear or frosted glass shelves, depending on how much you want to show or hide your items. For your items, you can display your simple and elegant dishes, glasses, or utensils, and keep them in the same color scheme, such as white, black, or gray. You can also add some pops of color or contrast, such as a plant, a vase, or a clock, to make your shelves more interesting.
Farmhouse
If you love the charming and vintage feel of a farmhouse style, choose a farmhouse style. Opt for whitewashed wood, vintage touches, and open cabinets. You can use old or new wood. Paint them with white or cream to create a shabby chic or country look. You can also add some details, such as bead board, wainscoting, or crown molding, to make your shelves more elegant and refined. For your items, display your colorful and patterned dishes, bowls, or plates. Mix them with some baskets, jars, or signs to add some personality and whimsy.
Scandinavian
If you like the bright and airy feel of a Scandinavian style, pick a Scandinavian style. Choose light wood, natural textures, and uncluttered design. You can use birch, pine, or oak wood. Leave them natural or stain them with a light color to create a smooth and fresh look. You can also use simple or curved shapes. Avoid any unnecessary decorations or ornaments to make your shelves more spacious and serene. For your items, display your white or pastel dishes, cups, or pots. Add some natural elements, such as plants, flowers, or fruits, to add some color and life. Design the perfect outdoor living area with expert tips and tricks in Designing the Perfect Outdoor Living Area: Tips and Tricks.
Traditional
If you appreciate the elegant and timeless feel of a traditional style, go for a traditional style, with classic elements, decorative accents, and painted finishes. You can use solid or carved wood, and paint them with a rich or muted color, such as navy, burgundy, or green, to create a sophisticated and luxurious look. You can also embellish your shelves with moldings, trims, or knobs, to add some flair and detail. For your items, you can display your fine china, crystal, or silverware, and accessorize them with some books, frames, or candles, to add some warmth and charm.
No matter what style you choose, open shelving can be a great way to enhance your kitchen. Just remember to measure your space, consider your needs, and have fun with your decor.
Mix and Match: Combine materials and styles for a unique look. Try rustic wood shelves with sleek metal brackets, or farmhouse whitewashed shelves with modern geometric vases.
Play with Color: Use pops of color with brightly colored dishes or cookbooks to add vibrancy. Maintain balance with neutral tones to avoid overwhelming the eye.
Vary the Heights: Arrange items of different heights to create visual interest. Group taller items in the back with shorter ones in front.
Open shelving options by material
Wood
Wood is a classic and versatile material for open kitchen shelves. It can suit various styles, from rustic to modern. It can add warmth, texture, and character to your kitchen, and you can choose from different types of wood, such as pine, oak, or walnut, to create different effects. However, wood can also be prone to warping, cracking, or staining, especially if exposed to moisture, heat, or sunlight. You may need to seal, paint, or varnish your wood shelves, to protect them from damage and wear.
Metal
Metal is a modern and industrial material for open kitchen shelves. It can add durability, sleekness, and edge to your kitchen. It can withstand high temperatures, humidity, and weight, and you can choose from different finishes, such as chrome, stainless steel, or copper, to match your appliances and fixtures. However, metal can also be cold, hard, and noisy, and it can rust, scratch, or dent if not properly cared for. You may need to polish, clean, or coat your metal shelves, to prevent them from tarnishing and corroding. Understand the pros and cons of engineered hardwood flooring versus solid hardwood in Engineered Hardwood Flooring vs. Solid Hardwood: Pros & Cons.
Glass
Glass is a light and airy material for open kitchen shelves, as it can showcase your items, reflect light, and create a sense of openness in your kitchen. It can also be easy to clean, as it does not absorb stains, odors, or grease. However, glass can also be fragile, breakable, and sharp, and it can shatter, chip, or crack if dropped or hit. You may need to use tempered or laminated glass, to make your shelves more safe and sturdy. Navigate the complexities of house renovation costs with expert insights and strategies in Navigating House Renovation Cost: Expert Insights & Strategies.
Concrete
Concrete is a trendy and minimalist material for open kitchen shelves. It can add a modern, urban, and industrial feel to your kitchen. It can also be strong, durable, and customizable, and you can mold, color, or texture it, to fit your preferences and needs. However, concrete can also be heavy, rough, and porous, and it can crack, chip, or crumble, if not properly mixed, cured, or sealed. You may need to reinforce, smooth, or waterproof your concrete shelves, to make them more stable and attractive.
Brick
Brick is a traditional and cozy material for open kitchen shelves. It can add a rustic, farmhouse, or cottage feel to your kitchen. It can also be warm, colorful, and textured, and you can choose from different sizes, shapes, and patterns, to create a unique and charming look. However, brick can also be bulky, uneven, and absorbent, and it can collect dust, dirt, or mold, if not cleaned regularly. You may need to trim, level, or seal your brick shelves, to make them more functional and hygienic.
No matter what material you choose, open kitchen shelves can be a wonderful addition to your kitchen. Just remember to measure your space, consider your budget, and have fun with your design.
When selecting open shelving for your kitchen, opt for designs that are easy to maintain. Choose open shelving that’s easy to clean and durable. It ensures hassle-free maintenance and longevity.
Open shelving options by location
Over countertops
Having open shelves over your countertops can be very convenient and functional. You can use them for storing and displaying your everyday dishes, cookbooks, and decorative items. This way, you can save time and effort by reaching for your plates, bowls, cups, and utensils, without opening and closing cabinets or drawers. You can also add some color and personality to your kitchen by showing off your favorite dishes, books, or accessories on your shelves. Consider the pros and cons of hiring a contractor for home renovation in Hiring a Contractor for Home Renovation: Pros & Cons.
Over pantry
Having open shelves over your pantry can be very efficient and organized. You can use them for storing and displaying your dry goods, spices, and canned goods. This way, you can save space and money by storing your food items in bulk, without taking up too much room in your cabinets or fridge. You can also see what you have and what you need at a glance, without rummaging through your pantry or forgetting about your items.
Over sink
Having open shelves over your sink can be very smart and stylish. You can use them for storing and displaying your dishes, drying rack, and decorative accents. This way, you can save water and energy by letting your dishes air dry on your shelves, instead of using a dishwasher or a towel. You can also add some charm and interest to your kitchen. Decorate your shelves with some plants, signs, or other accents to make them more attractive.
Over appliances
Having open shelves over your appliances, such as your stove, oven, or microwave, can be very handy and fun. You can use them for storing and displaying your cookbooks, small appliances, and decorative items. This way, you can save counter space and hassle by keeping your cooking and baking essentials close to your appliances, without cluttering your work area. You can also add some flair and fun to your kitchen by displaying your cookbooks, gadgets, or accessories on your shelves.Decide between professional help and DIY approaches with Pro Help or DIY Hustle? Your Renovators Crew Guide.
Corner shelves
Having open shelves in the corners of your kitchen can be very creative and cozy, as you can use them to maximize your space and display your decorative items. This way, you can make use of the otherwise wasted space and add some dimension and depth to your kitchen. You can also add some coziness and warmth to your kitchen by displaying your plants, candles, or frames on your shelves.
As you can see, having open shelves in different locations in your kitchen can have different benefits for your space and style. You can choose the location that suits your needs and preferences, and enjoy the advantages of having open shelves in your kitchen. Understand the difference between remodel and renovation with Remodel vs Renovation: Refresh or Reshape Your Home?.
Conclusion
Open shelving isn't a one size fits all solution. It's a world of possibilities waiting to be explored! Whether you crave a rustic charm with reclaimed wood shelves or a sleek, modern vibe with glass, there's a type that perfectly complements your style. With a little planning and the right type of open shelving, you can transform your kitchen into a space that reflects your personality and culinary journey. So unleash your creativity, choose the perfect style, material, location, and get ready to design open shelves that are as beautiful as they are fun
Renovate to live, Renotive to thrive!
FAQs
Is open shelving still in style today?
Yes, open shelving remains a popular choice due to its blend of functionality and aesthetics. It’s a timeless trend that allows you to showcase your kitchen essentials.
What are the pros and cons of open kitchen shelving?
Pros: Easy access to items, stylish display, and versatility for personalization.
Cons: Dust accumulation, potential clutter, and exposure to grease and moisture.
How do I choose the right type of shelves for my kitchen?
Consider materials (wood, metal, glass), style (floating or bracketed), and dimensions that fit your kitchen layout.
