It may seem like an unconventional idea at first, but kitchens with open shelving are becoming more and more prevalent. When done right, the effect can be wonderfully open and airy. The biggest advantage is that it frees up a lot of visual space and makes a small kitchen feel much larger. As a bonus, this look can also bring a lot of charm and character to a kitchen.
The biggest challenge to open shelving is making sure the shelves are styled correctly. This look can quickly go from charming to cluttered if the content isn’t visually balanced. The best way to do this is to make sure all of your plates and glassware match, preferably in a solid color such as white, and incorporate some pieces of decor in between.
Here are 10 great examples of kitchens with open shelving that will give you some ideas on the type of shelving to use and how best to style them.
Turquoise glass tiles created the perfect accent wall behind this open shelving.
Source: Better Homes & Gardens
White, grey, and yellow items infuse tons of charm into this kitchen and give the open shelving a strong, cohesive identity.
Source: Country Living
For an industrial look, brass elements mixed with white and black look vintage and cool.
Source: Lonny
Floating white shelves blend seamlessly into the white subway tile and create a cohesive look with the rest of the kitchen.
Source: PopSugar Home
One section of wood open shelving brings some warmth to the blue lower cabinets and fits with the laid back vibe of this space.
Source: My Domaine
Stainless steel accents frame the range hood perfectly and reflect light for a minimalist look.
Source: Luxe
Hanging shelves offer a charming, rustic look for a country-inspired kitchen.
Source: HGTV
Here is another example of hanging shelves, this time for a much more contemporary vibe.
Source: Better Home & Gardens
The shelving visually recedes, making this space feel large and open.
Source: Better Homes & Gardens
The smallest kitchen benefit the most from open shelving.
Source: Yahoo!
If you’re renovating an older kitchen and the space feels cramped, consider how open shelving on the top (either partial or full) may open up the space and give it a boost of modern character.
Warm regards,
Megan