Modern kitchen shelves ideas
21 Beautiful Open Kitchen Shelving Ideas
By
Lauren Thomann
Lauren Thomann
Lauren Thomann is passionate about crafting and DIY home improvement, writing on both topics. While refurbishing her 1916 bungalow on her own, she shares lessons learned through her DIY and home improvement articles.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
and
Lacey Ramburger
Lacey Ramburger
Lacey Ramburger is a personality assessment expert based in Kansas City, Missouri, with more than five years of experience. Her areas of expertise include Zodiac, Myers-Briggs, and the Enneagram. She is the author of the book "Being Whole" and dozens of articles on personality assessments and relationships.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 01/26/22
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update your kitchen is to nix some upper cabinets and replace them with shelves instead.
Whether you're budgeting for a full-scale remodel or you just want a small update, these kitchen shelving ideas will help steer you in the right direction.
The 9 Best Floating Shelves of 2023
-
01 of 21
Incorporate Wooden Shelving for a Rustic Look
Becca Interiors
Floating shelves in a farmhouse-style kitchen are often made from stained or reclaimed wood, which looks great in most spaces. These wooden shelves are given some additional rustic flair with wire hooks supporting each shelf, ultimately supported by the exposed wooden beam ceiling above.
-
02 of 21
Alternate Open Shelving With Hanging Storage
Tyler Karu Design
In many instances, open shelving surrounds a range hood evenly on both sides so the entire look feels symmetrical and balanced. However, consider switching up your kitchen storage by instead opposing some open shelving with hanging storage.
-
03 of 21
Turn Shelving Into an Open Pantry
Design: Velinda Hellen for EHD/Photographer: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
If you have spare space in your kitchen—whether that be a wall or even a kitchen island–but no pantry, this solution is ideal. Open shelving works best when it's only partially about design and more about function. This project will help you keep a more organized pantry, and the visibility will help you know exactly how much you have left of certain dry goods.
43 Kitchen Pantry Ideas For Smarter Storage
-
04 of 21
Save Money by Removing Cabinet Doors
Arbor & Co.
The easiest way to update your kitchen without going through an entire remodel is to remove the doors from existing cabinets. To add more of a wow factor, consider painting the interior of your cabinets a different color.
10 Painted Kitchen Cabinet Ideas
-
05 of 21
A Couple of Well-Placed Shelves Go a Long Way
Calimia Home
Many people assume when they incorporate open shelving into their kitchen, they have to add tons of shelves. This isn't the case. A couple of smaller shelves that take up the space of one cabinet will make a significant impact on the space. This idea works well for those who want the look of open shelving but less commitment in regards to cleaning and styling them.
-
06 of 21
Use Open Shelving to Create a Coffee Bar
Becca Interiors
If you wake up every morning in need of a cup of coffee, consider using open shelving to create a coffee bar in your kitchen. This project can be as simple as adding a couple of shelves above the coffee pot or as elaborate as the setup shown here.
-
07 of 21
Rethink What Open Shelving Should Look Like
Jessica Nelson Design
Remember, open shelving isn't limited to farmhouse style. There are numerous ways you can design shelves to fit in with your specific aesthetic. For a more modern look, consider gold and brass finishes in more geometric patterns, and opt for glass instead of wooden varieties.
-
08 of 21
Add Open Shelving Above the Sink
Studio Peake
In most traditional kitchen layouts, there is a shorter cabinet placed above the sink. To create a more airy feel, remove that cabinet and opt for a couple of well-placed shelves instead. This area can be an ideal storage space for dish soaps and anything you don't mind being exposed to moisture from the sink. It can also work in your favor to set shelves higher up to store glasses, mugs, and other decor you want out in the open. Many houseplants will thrive in this location.
-
09 of 21
Make Open Shelving Work in a Corner Space
Design: Velinda Hellen for EHD/Photographer: Sara Ligorria-Tramp
It's easy enough to run open shelving along an entire wall and stop it at the end. Instead, consider creating a right angle and making use of the corner space, too. Since most corners are relatively hidden from view, you can use this space for microwaves and other less attractive kitchen appliances and gadgets. You can also opt for items that aren't used as often, to keep those corners covered.
-
10 of 21
Restyle Kitchen Shelving Often
Cathie Hong
Perhaps the most fun and challenging part about open shelving is the styling. Once you get the hang of how items group together, styling becomes easier and more enjoyable. A few tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your color palette simple for a more streamlined look.
- Add in greenery using houseplants with differing textures.
- Group items in clusters of three.
- Make sure there is a variation of heights so your eye is drawn across the entire shelf.
-
11 of 21
Use Open Shelving In Unusually Shaped-Spaces
Arbor & Co.
It's no secret that smaller spaces require unique storage solutions. When working with a small kitchen or kitchenette space, open shelving can do wonders to add much-needed storage options—especially in the form of wooden shelves that take up far less space than bulky cabinets. This works especially well with uniquely shaped spaces, like a slanted roof or half-wall. A few floating shelves add the perfect amount of support for extra glassware and cups, keeping them in reach.
-
12 of 21
Get Playful With Your Decor
Casa Watkins Living
While minimalist styles and color schemes certainly have their place, there isn't anything wrong with adding plenty of color and pattern into the mix. Open shelving placed against a radiant backdrop, like this eclectic wallpaper, is a simple way to add a burst of color to your kitchen, while also displaying all the items you need.
-
13 of 21
Establish Symmetry
Ashley Montgomery Design
Creating a cohesive space in your kitchen means taking balance into account. Open shelving has plenty of great attributes, but its placement and the items you choose to showcase can lead to things looking more cluttered than crafted. Using equal amounts of one shelving and being mindful of what goes on it can go a long way.
-
14 of 21
Open Shelving Isn't Limited to Your Walls
Burchard Design Co.
The words "open shelving" often evoke concepts of cabinets without doors and floating shelves—both valuable options. However, your walls aren't the only space you can incorporate this idea—your kitchen island can also lend a hand in this department. A kitchen island with exposed shelves and extra space for storage can be an absolute gamechanger.
-
15 of 21
Opt For a Stand Alone Shelf
House of Chais
In lieu of mounting shelving, why not add a stand-alone shelf into the mix? A simple multi-tier option has plenty of space to showcase decorative items, as well as smaller essentials like coffee cups and salt and peppershakers.
-
16 of 21
Pair Floating Shelves With Open Door Shelving
Jules Interiors
Don't feel the need to limit the types of shelving in your kitchen—there are so many options to choose from. Pairing a floating shelf with open door shelving, like this marble kitchen, is a great way to make the most of your space without sticking to just one concept.
-
17 of 21
Create Unity
LeClair Decor
Open shelves are a great way to create symmetry and balance in your space. Additionally, they can work exceptionally well in creating unity in multiple spaces throughout your kitchen. The set of six floating wooden shelves shown in this kitchen already provides plenty of storage and looks great in the process. Turn your eyes over to the bar area, and you'll notice another set of the same floating shelves make an appearance there as well—creating a sense of unity in entirely separate spaces.
-
18 of 21
Make The Most Of Your Space
M Starr Design
Rather than spacing out your open shelves, keeping them close together creates a cozy atmosphere that has everything you need within reach. Opting for smaller shelves to fill smaller areas, while having wraparound options for those corner spaces, keeps everything looking sleek and cohesive.
-
19 of 21
Pair Open Shelves With Tile
Margaret Wright Interior + Lifestyle Photography
From a decorating perspective, floating shelves work well with essentially any theme. For a distinctly modern look, try pairing wooden shelves with white tile—the results feel timeless, yet absolutely chic.
-
20 of 21
Blend In
Margaret Wright Interiors + Lifestyle Photography
Open shelves don't have to be abrasive or attention-grabbing if you don't want them to be. For an understated look, try matching your shelving to the color of your walls—this deep charcoal kitchen cloaks the floating shelves so well, you can barely tell they are there at all.
-
21 of 21
Don't Knock Hanging Storage
Mary Patton Design
More shelves are always a plus but don't knock the value of hanging storage options. Especially if you have pots and pans that you don't mind displaying, opting for a hanging rack that holds them all can free up some serious cabinet and shelving space while creating a unique focal point.
Using Shelf Standards and Brackets From Different Manufacturers
14 ways to boost storage and display space |
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Kitchen shelving ideas – whether open shelving or hidden within a cupboard or behind pocket doors – are a great option if you are the proud owner of an impressive crockery collection, or are a keen cook who appreciates having ingredients close at hand.
Having everything on display, however, is not for the faint-hearted as it requires a certain amount of dedication to keep shelves looking smart and uncluttered.
Kitchen shelving ideas
Here, we take you through shelving options for all kitchen ideas, plus give you plenty of inspiration for how best to display your favorite finds on them.
1. Play with decorative shelving
Photography/Matthew Williams
(Image credit: Future)
Not everything needs to be hidden away when it comes to storage. In fact, decorative kitchen storage ideas and solutions can make a huge difference to your kitchen's look and feel.
A cluster of simple floating shelves works particularly well in a kitchen where there may be a fair amount of closed cabinetry taking up space along the walls. They add an element of interest that draws the eye, all while helping to keep countertops clear.
It’s best to mount open shelving just above eye level and within easy reach if you intend for the shelves to hold day-to-day items, such as plates and mugs.
For a stylised look, stack collections of your favorite crockery, line up fresh herbs and incorporate small pieces of art along a run of open shelving.
2. Use shelving to create interest
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
Shelving doesn't have to always be practical, it can be used to house quirky curios and objets.
For kitchen art ideas, try mixing large statement pieces with smaller items grouped together. When grouping, consider the shape that the objects create collectively and play with color and form to keep things interesting.
Glass lidded pots will look more enticing if filled with colorful props, whether they be functional or decorative.
3. Have a shelving unit fitted professionally
(Image credit: Future / Emma Lee)
‘Commissioning a display piece or asking for kitchen cabinet ideas from a furniture maker will make the very best use of a space,' explains Richard Williams, Richard Williams Furniture.
'A joiner will work around awkward shapes in walls and conceal service pipes or wall boxing. Large pieces will be fixed and scribed to the shape of the wall and skirting, which gives a very neat finish.
'If shelves are to be adjustable, look for neat and unobtrusive methods of adjustability, such as 5mm shelf pegs with a limited number of peg holes for each shelf. ’
4. Keep the look coherent
(Image credit: Future / Lisa Cohen)
When displaying items on open shelves, it is vital to keep things organized.
As shown in the black and white kitchen above, items placed in groups or in lines of threes, fours or fives will prevent the shelves looking untidy.
When choosing the overall look, decide if you want the shelves to be made in a material which is a statement in itself, or if you want them to have a less prominent role, allow your display to do all the talking.
5. Fit shelving in a recess or alcove
(Image credit: Future / David Cleveland)
Open shelving can create a real statement in a room and is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
'It is also a more economical option than a fully enclosed storage unit. It is particularly suited to small recesses in areas such as either side of a chimney breast, helping to visually correct uneven proportions,' says Anne Haimes, Anne Haimes Interiors .
6. Work with wood
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Think carefully about the thickness you want each shelf to be. If you’re using wood, it pays to choose a chunky option, giving a strong, clean, confident appearance.
'Wood is not a homogenous material – every single piece is different, and herein lies its beauty,' advises Keith Atkins, DesignSpaceLondon . 'Create an interplay between different timbers or use bookmatching techniques to achieve pattern and variety.'
Think too about whether you’d like shelves with adjustable heights to allow for flexibility.
7. Add intrigue with color
(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)
Choosing your kitchen color scheme is such a personal experience – in fact no one knows for sure whether we all even see the myriad shades in the same way.
Mark Wilkinson, founder of Mark Wilkinson Furniture , believes that the colors we choose automatically are naturally influenced by current fashions.
'The color in a kitchen – be it on shelves or cabinets – should last for at least five years, minimum, so try to look beyond immediate kitchen trends and choose a color that will keep you feeling good long term,' he advises.
However, if you have your heart set on adding a bold color to your kitchen shelves, then look no further than Pantone's Color of the Year for 2021.
Bright yellow shelves combined with warm gray elsewhere creates a positive and grounding feel. Open-plan kitchens especially benefit from this burst of energy and enthusiasm.
8. Keep it hidden behind a door
(Image credit: Future / Damian Russell)
The shelves in your kitchen do not always have to be permanently on display.
Disguise your kitchen storage solutions behind streamlined doors. Go for slab doors that are completely flat to mimic a bare wall, and paint the doors the same color as your wall to help them disappear.
In this painted kitchen, the restful interior of a cabinet showcases a display of Japanese-style monochrome ceramics and wooded artisan pieces.
9. Display elegant glass jars and ceramics
(Image credit: Future / Alex Sarginson)
If you're wondering how to organize a kitchen, decanting your cooking supplies into neat matching jars yields a certain amount of satisfaction, and makes it easy to spot if you are running low of any ingredients. As well as keeping your shelves looking tidy, your dry goods will also be kept airtight.
Be aware, this type of shelving does require an element of frequent dusting, but we think the styling benefits are worth the extra bit of effort.
(Image credit: Future / Simon Bevan)
Kitchen shelving doesn't always have to be the star of the show. Sometimes just a single shelf is enough to add interest without detracting away from the rest of the space.
Shelf space doesn’t have to be purely practical; here beautifully-designed ceramic plates and jugs add personality to the room. Re-use pretty tins as utensil holders, and old glass bottles as bud vases.
11. Use reclaimed shelving for a rustic appearance
(Image credit: Future / Jake Curtis)
For a country-style kitchen, modern shelving may look out of place. Why not have a shelf built from reclaimed wood to add instant character and provide the perfect ledge for your rustic bowls and utensils?
(Image credit: Future / Manolo Yllera)
Shelving doesn't have to always be practical, it can be used to house quirky curios and objets.
Try mixing large statement pieces with smaller items grouped together. When grouping, consider the shape that the objects create collectively and play with color and form to keep things interesting.
Glass lidded pots will look more enticing if filled with colorful props, whether they be functional or decorative.
13. Back kitchen shelving with an interesting material
(Image credit: Sims Hilditch)
Lining the back of kitchen shelving with an interesting material – perhaps one that matches your backsplash ideas – will elevate your kitchen's design. Then, it's just a case of not over-stuffing the shelves so that the materials are visible.
To enjoy your kitchen to its maximum potential, it is worth thinking, at the outset of the project, about the amount and type of storage that you need.
'After all, this is the place at home where you will probably spend most of your time, so being able to find what you need quickly and easily is going to make cooking more enjoyable,' says designer Emma Sims-Hilditch of design agency Sims-Hilditch . 'I really do believe that a well organised space makes you feel calmer and happier.'
14. Put kitchen shelving behind a pocket door
(Image credit: Future/ Paul Massey)
An alcove, an awkward corner or an awkward room shape can be turned into a positive with kitchen shelving ideas. Typically, these might be behind a door – this one, is perfect if you are looking for pantry ideas thanks to its floor-to-ceiling proportions and space-saving pocket door.
What do you put on kitchen shelves?
Of course, you may have got them all picked out and fitted, but what do you put on kitchen shelves?
You could pop dried goods in stylish see through containers, plants, crockery and more on them - the the possibilities are endless. What's more, beautifully styled shelves with all kinds of useful knick-knacks add real interest to a kitchen.
Open shelving for kitchens is a great way to add extra storage space to a room, as well as wow factor. Adjustable shelves, lighting and neat joinery will enhance the look of a piece like this, as well as offering a way to group favourite items and add impact to a scheme.
How do you use open shelving in a kitchen?
If you're wondering how to use open shelving in a kitchen, be sure to work to the full proportions of the room, to create maximum impact.
A floor-to-ceiling unit, with sturdy, adjustable shelves and minimal fixtures will offer a strong, enticing look and act as an excellent anchor and display.
Open shelving can be an effective small kitchen storage idea that doesn't appear to eat too much space. It also works in small living rooms, too.
Consider the look you are opting for, whether traditional, featuring detailed joinery, or sleek and unfussy with a contemporary edge, and think carefully about what you are displaying. This will ensure each shelf is made to allow sufficient depth and to carry weight without warping.
Is open shelving still in style?
Yes, open shelving is still in style for 2021.
'Open shelving can create a real statement in a room and is both practical and visually pleasing, making it a popular design element for the kitchen,' says Anne Haimes, Anne Haimes Interiors .
Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.
Top 13 Kitchen Shelf Design Ideas • inTrends
Shelves are one of the most important interior elements that we never think about, but really worth getting interested in. They are able to give your kitchen a certain aesthetics and functionality.
Open shelving trends are all the rage right now, but that doesn't mean everyone has to mount the first shelving unit they see on their kitchen wall. To get started, check out the kitchen shelf ideas below to see which options are more suitable and more affordable for you. And then you will make an important decision - to add a couple to your kitchen or not. nine0003
Storefront Kitchen Shelf Ideas
If you like industrial style, check out simple storefront shelving designs as part of a storage solution for bulk food and kitchen utensils. You can have a few cabinets and a few open shelves for a better harmony of both types, both of which together look good and natural in an industrial interior theme.
The best and cheapest solution for your industrial shelves is to make them yourself. Start with a wooden plank of the thickness and length you require. Then buy black pipes and use them as support brackets. nine0003
Another option is solid metal shelves. Look for the ones you usually see in commercial, office, warehouse or manufacturing environments. They will give you a real industrial feel.
Metal Kitchen Shelf Ideas
You can make your kitchen look like a professional commercial kitchen by replacing your kitchen shelves with stainless steel ones. They will help her look bright, like a mirror reflecting the light from the lamps, and they are very easy to care for, you just need to wipe them periodically with a damp cloth. You will also find that stainless steel shelving is the most hygienic option as it is non-porous. nine0003
We advise you to make sure that you use only high quality stainless steel for your shelves. Otherwise, you risk subjecting them to oxidation or metal corrosion. They will look disgusting and besides it is dangerous to health. Commercial metal is thicker and stronger, making it less likely to get scratches and dents.
Floating Kitchen Shelf Ideas
The floating shelf looks like it is hanging on the wall without any visual support. Thus, it seems to be floating on the wall. The current trend is to replace cabinets with floating kitchen shelves. nine0003
Be careful if you make the wrong decision to tear down all the cabinets and completely replace them with floating shelves. While they look beautiful on social media and in photos in design magazines, in practice they are not very functional.
The first dilemma is not protecting your cutlery or other kitchen utensils from grease and other food particles floating in the air during cooking.
This means that everything in the kitchen will be constantly dirty. Another problem is that clutter cannot be hidden. If you are one of those who have 1 million kitchen gadgets, then this solution is definitely not for you. nine0003
Bracketed Kitchen Shelf Ideas
The Shelf Bracket is a support that gives stability to your shelf and allows you to secure it to the kitchen wall surface. But your brackets are not just functional elements. Since they are visible, it is your responsibility to make them decorative.
For an artisan, rustic or farmhouse style kitchen, you can choose wooden supports. They usually have curls cut out on them. Modern and industrial kitchens look good with metal brackets. They have a sleek and streamlined style with minimal detailing. Luxurious or elegant kitchens are adorned with gold brackets with many intricate designs. nine0003
Kitchen cabinet ideas
Most modern homes are built with built-in kitchen furniture. They usually consist of base cabinets running along the floor or top cabinets mounted on the wall. On top of your lower cabinets will be a countertop, which is the work surface in your kitchen. Kitchen cabinets are a convenient and logical method of creating storage in the kitchen, as they have doors that hide everything you store in them.
If you are in the process of renovating your kitchen, this is the perfect opportunity to create a new cabinet system in your kitchen. Check out ways to use today's innovations to increase storage space from the typical dead space in a kitchen cabinet. The most common places in the corners are hard to reach, dark and often become either unused or a place where kitchen appliances get old. Instead, you can install drawers or drawers. nine0003
Hanging kitchen shelf ideas
Not all shelves need to be fixed to the wall. If you have high ceilings, then you have plenty of room for shelves above the counters that are not against the wall. If you have a peninsula-style counter or an entire "kitchen island", then you have space above it for open storage.
You will need to fix the kitchen shelf in the ceiling at all four corners. This will create a platform that is accessible from all sides. You can then use the space to display decorative items or eye-catching kitchen utensils like copper pots. nine0003
Kitchen wall shelf ideas
Do you have a particular place where you like to work the most? Then maybe it's time to add a wall shelf or two above it. This way, you can keep your most used items close at hand. The shelf or shelves should not be large. They just need to be large enough to fit the items you need.
You can also use the wall shelf to create a custom workstation. It would be the perfect idea for coffee connoisseurs. It doesn't have to be a regular straight wall shelf. You may have triangular shaped corner shelves that fit into a dead space that is not currently being used. nine0003
Freestanding kitchen shelving ideas
Not everyone has enough wall space in their kitchen to install cabinets and shelves. Or, if you live in a rented house, the landlord has the right to stop you from drilling holes in the walls. In both of these situations, freestanding shelving is best.
To keep your kitchen spacious, look for shelving without sides or doors. They allow you to see the wall behind the shelving unit. This also makes them the perfect place to showcase your favorite kitchen décor. Not all shelving has to be large; you may have a small block sitting on your counter. nine0003
Ideas for open kitchen shelves
You may not like the idea of open kitchen shelves, but that doesn't mean you have to give them up completely. You can include one or a couple of open options in your kitchen design.
One of the most common open shelving kitchen ideas is to remove one of the cabinets and replace it with two open shelves. Another idea is to connect upper cabinets with shelves above the sink. If none of these ideas work, consider adding an open shelf attached to the bottom of your upper cabinets. nine0003
Ideas for modern kitchen shelves
If you want to create a modern kitchen feel, look for unique shelves. You can have shelves connected with long metal brackets to give the illusion of hanging from the ceiling. Or a wall with niches in which you can install and move shelves as needed. They allow you to have multiple storage solutions for specific items such as a spice rack, glassware, mugs or cookbooks. nine0003
If you prefer a modern white kitchen with an upscale look, consider using alternative materials. You can install tiled shelves on the front and top. Or you can have marble shelves that match the marble top.
Kitchen Pantry Shelf Ideas
Most modern kitchens have a separate cupboard used as a pantry. Some represent a small space, deep enough to accommodate several shelves at once. Others are shallow with wide-opening full-length cabinet doors. For the most successful homeowners, the pantry is a walk-in closet with the maximum kitchen space. nine0003
Regardless of the size of your pantry, the best thing you can do is make the most of the space available to you. Pick a storage system that suits your style of organization and is capable of holding everything you need. You may need a series of shelves, drawers or shelving.
Old Wood Kitchen Shelf Ideas
If you want a rustic or farmhouse style kitchen then using reclaimed wood is a must. Look for long boards made from old wood. They make the best wooden shelves. It's okay if your shelves are defective or don't look the same. That's the beauty of old wood. nine0003
The only thing you should be aware of is possible dangers of injury, such as splinters, sharp edges or pieces of old metal fittings that could accidentally cut in some way. It is also helpful to choose pieces of wood that can be easily flattened and flattened. Thus, you can easily stack your kitchen utensils on them.
When reusing wood, it is sometimes difficult to tell how long the shelves will be. Because of this, you might want to get creative with your DIY wooden shelf. You can make one long shelf that takes up the entire kitchen, or several independent shorter options. nine0003
Optimization ideas for kitchen shelves
Kitchen shelves are not just pretty pictures or attractive kitchen designs. They are also designed to give you extra storage space. Therefore, do not forget to consider how they are located. They can be on the wall, in a closet or in the pantry.
To maximize your storage space, your shelves should match the items you'll be storing on them. You can arrange items by size. So you can have a shelf for shorter items closer to the next one. Another option is to create a series of narrow shelves, each of which will hold a bottle of wine. This not only makes the best use of space, but is also the best way to store an alcoholic beverage. nine0003
80+ photos, ideas for open, closed, suspended structures
Types of kitchen shelves
There are several varieties.
Open
Contribute to the visual expansion of the room and make it much freer. However, the contents of open structures constantly require perfect order and frequent cleaning. In this case, to make maintenance less laborious, it is recommended to install a more powerful hood.
Closed
Similar models are distinguished by the presence of rear and side walls, complemented by sliding, lifting or hinged doors. nine0003
The photo shows closed rectangular shelves with a colored facade in the interior of the kitchen.
Wall-mounted
Become a great addition to any free space in the kitchen or easily fit even into the wall. Hanging shelves can have a wide variety of purposes, which affects the depth, height and location of the structure. Products equipped with a hidden fastening have a particularly beautiful and trendy look.
Floor standing
Represents rather strong model that can withstand any load. Floor shelves on legs, great for placing a microwave, multicooker and other household appliances. Such structures are mainly made of metal or wood and are sometimes equipped with wheels, which makes them more mobile.
Tabletop
These products can be fixed or folding and have several tiers. They are located against the wall on the countertop and provide a convenient place for mugs, jars of spices or cereals, bread boxes, sugar bowls or even a flower vase. nine0003
Built-in
Fitted into a niche, kitchen edge or island, these shelves make good use of the available space and add variety and creativity to the environment.
Shelving units
These organizers with a certain number of shelves, combined in one box, easily complement any kitchen design. Shelving provides efficient organization of things such as various dishes, recipe books, baskets for vegetables and fruits, and small household appliances. nine0003
Concealed
Distinguished by a facade that blends in with the surroundings, a set or, for example, a kitchen backsplash. Hidden models are especially suitable for those who prefer a laconic and discreet interior.
Material
Almost any material can be used in the manufacture of shelves:
- Wooden. They have a truly luxurious appearance, are environmentally friendly and, if necessary, lend themselves well to restoration. nine0174
- Plastic. They are considered a fairly economical solution that allows you to achieve an interesting decoration of the kitchen. Plastic structures are often placed above the table or above the sink for drying dishes.
- Metal. Despite their elegant configuration, such products are able to withstand a fairly large load. Stainless steel shelves or sophisticated metal grilles do not burden or overload the interior, making it truly stylish.
- Chipboard/MDF. When choosing such models, it turns out to significantly save money and at the same time form a very beautiful, simple and practical design. nine0174
- Drywall. Drywall products have a wide variety of shapes that you can design with your own hands. Such shelves are more suitable for storing small accessories and are sometimes equipped with spotlights.
The photo shows a kitchen interior with hinged open shelves made of wood.
Also quite often in the interior of the kitchen there are tempered glass shelves that look very fragile, but at the same time withstand almost any load. These transparent structures can have hidden fasteners, which creates the feeling of objects floating in the air. nine0003
Dimensions and shapes of shelves
In a small kitchen, corner shelves complemented by various accessories look especially appropriate. Such products occupy a minimum of usable area and organically merge into the environment. A rather original design, they have high structures up to the ceiling, which consist of several tiers. They not only look very stylish, but also suggest a convenient location for many necessary items.
The photo shows a straight narrow wooden shelf in the kitchen interior in light colors. nine0003
Particularly interesting design of the kitchen space can be achieved using horizontal multi-level models, which can be quite long and occupy the entire wall or only part of it. There are also not only wide, but also narrow shelves, perfect for a variety of decor and contributing to significant space savings.
The photo shows the interior of the dining room, decorated with open shelves to the ceiling.
What to put on the shelves?
Popular filling options.
For dishes and pots
On the shelves for dishes, it is possible to conveniently store plates that can be placed in a slide or arranged in a row in an interesting way. Such models can sometimes be equipped with special cross beams to prevent falls. For glasses and bottles with alcoholic beverages, various vertical holders, swivel, hanging or side shelves are used, which often act as an additional accessory to the bar counter. nine0003
Decorative
Designs that offer different decorations, such as original candles, photo frames, lamps, flower pots and other cute knick-knacks, greatly soften the atmosphere of the kitchen and give it a special taste.
For TV
With this design, you can achieve a very beautiful design. When choosing a shelf for TV, it is desirable that it is harmoniously combined with all the rest of the furniture in the room, thus, it turns out to create the most comfortable and neat interior. nine0003
Foodstuffs
Very often, for seasonings and spices, holder shelves are used or an entire niche is used for storage. Depending on the size of the structure, it can be filled not only with numerous jars, but also with tea boxes, containers with cereals, bottles with vegetable oil or sauce. For fruits and vegetables, products in the form of a rack or a shelf with metal baskets are especially appropriate, which take up little space and can sometimes be equipped with wheels. nine0003
Pictured is a ladder-shaped desktop wooden shelf for storing tea and coffee.
For household items
Shelves with hooks are a very practical accessory that combines two functions at once. Such products are at the same time suitable for placing sponges and, for example, hanging towels.
For kitchen appliances
For various appliances in the form of a small toaster or microwave oven, pull-out structures, shelves with hinged doors, floor or hinged models are used. nine0003
How to arrange in the kitchen?
Ways of placing shelves in the kitchen space.
Above the table
A free wall above the table is often decorated with shelves for decorative items or various small jars of spices. In this zone, models with invisible fasteners that merge with the wall surface and become one with it will look very advantageous.
The photo shows a kitchen interior with decorative shelves above the dining table. nine0003
In the corner
Corner units fit perfectly into the interior of both small and larger kitchens. Such triangular or l-shaped products provide significant space savings and, thanks to various design ideas, give the atmosphere a stylish and unusual look.
Above the sink
For such placement choose shelves or dryers made of materials that are not afraid of moisture, temperature changes, mechanical damage and high loads. Sometimes, to prevent the appearance of marks and streaks, a special decorative coating is used. nine0003
In a niche
With this option, you can get away from the stereotyped interior design, as well as make the most efficient use of space. The dimensions of the shelves are selected depending on the dimensions of the niche, and the material in accordance with the style of the room.
Backsplash
This placement near the worktop with sink and hob is not only original, but also sensible. Thus, you can place at hand the products and items necessary in the cooking process. nine0003
The photo shows square shelves in the design of the working area with an apron in the interior of the kitchen.
Ceiling mounted
Additional ceiling mounted storage provides a practical and stylish design. The main advantage of this solution is the saving of usable space below. Rarely used dishes, household appliances are placed on such frame shelves, towels, potholders and so on are hung.
Above door
It is quite a relevant option for the kitchen. The mezzanine above the door provides a convenient place to store boxes or baskets with the right things.
On a free wall
When placing shelves on an empty wall, the main thing is to observe a sense of proportion so as not to burden the appearance of the room. For example, quite often the structure is hung in a free space between two cabinets to create a single furniture composition, or simply placed in a linear, checkerboard or chaotic manner. nine0003
Above the sofa
This solution can give the kitchen interior a special zest and a sense of order. Above the sofa, it is better to install less bulky and not too long or rounded models with attractive decor.
Color range
The kitchen looks really stylish and modern, decorated with shelves in white or gray shades, which are especially appropriate in creating an interior in a minimalist style. Also very effective are designs in black or wenge colors, most often complementing both modern design and classic or English style furnishings. nine0003
Pictured is a two-level table shelf in chrome.
For interiors with light finishes, interesting contrasts are often used in the form of products in saturated colors. Chrome-colored models are considered to be no less expressive interior solution, which favorably emphasize the overall design of the room and highlight its accents.
Design Ideas
Due to models with lighting, it turns out to significantly expand the functionality of the kitchen space. These luminous products are complemented by a system of LED modules, spotlights or sconces, they are also sometimes decorated with a mirror wall, which allows you to give the room a special soft and diffused glow. nine0003
A rather extravagant solution is represented by unusual designs that have a non-standard shape or multi-colored design, which contribute to the creation of a creative design, if not always practical.
The photo shows a kitchen interior with hanging green shelves of an unusual shape.
In order to emphasize the originality of the interior, carvings are used. Warm and cozy material with all sorts of patterns, especially harmoniously combined with a variety of jars, clay pots, wicker, wooden decor and other kitchen utensils. Forged shelves look no less advantageous, giving the atmosphere a certain rarity, solidity and chic. nine0003
Photos of open shelves in the interior of the kitchen
Open shelves make the kitchen interior more expressive and at the same time very cozy and homely. Due to the beautifully arranged dishes, the atmosphere is endowed with a special personality.
A stylish and modern design option is the asymmetric arrangement of open shelves. Such a solution is not always convenient, but it certainly attracts attention. With a sufficient amount of lighting in the room, open structures can be placed even in the area of the window opening. nine0003
Variants in various styles
Design examples in popular styles.
Scandinavian style kitchen
Nordic style primarily involves models made from predominantly natural materials. Semi-closed combined shelving with drawers or open shelves with decorative items that emphasize this trend, such as animal paintings, black and white photographs or green plants, look very impressive here. nine0003
Pictured are wooden open shelves above the sink in a Scandinavian style kitchen.
Shelves in the Provence style
In this interior, they prefer vintage wooden structures with an aged appearance or choose the most simple products in white, beige and other natural colors. A particularly relevant decor for closed shelves in the Provence style will be curtains with a floral pattern.
Loft style
Loft style kitchen space, complete with more massive shelves made of wooden boards or metal, with an unfinished appearance. A rather bold design decision are structures made of concrete or brick. In the design of these products, rusty pipes, various taps, bolts, screws and metal rods are used.
Country-style kitchen
For rustic design, it is appropriate to use antique designs, which are distinguished by simple design and decor in the form of forged and openwork elements. Most often on the shelves there is a large number of accessories and kitchen utensils. nine0003
Hi-tech
High-tech hi-tech is characterized by models made of more modern materials, such as glossy plastic, glass or metal, combined with chrome elements or lighting equipment. Content should be minimal and include only items with a direct functional purpose.
Classic
For classic or neoclassic, glass showcases or racks and shelves made of natural wood are especially often chosen, which have decoration in the form of carvings or forged metal plates stylized in gold, bronze or brass.