Open shelving can be a refreshing kitchen trend, especially when carefully curated. But, this design feature can also look cluttered and chaotic if not done correctly. Many homeowners avoid this design feature because they fear their crockery will become dusty and grimy a concern that is valid for some. But, it is possible to minimize this issue with a few clever hacks.
Easy Access
Shelves keep all your most-used items within reach. This makes them a practical choice for cooks who often grab things on the fly, or those who like to entertain. You won’t have to search multiple cupboards to find that perfect serving plate or glass jug. If you love to cook with a theme, shelves offer the flexibility to create unique vignettes to set your kitchen apart. You can also display your favorite dishes and decorative pieces to add visual interest.
Be selective of what goes on your shelves and remember to balance things out. Too much clutter can easily make your kitchen feel chaotic. Aim to place everyday items like coffee mugs and plates closer to your stove, and then use the higher shelves to store less-used pieces, such as those pretty vases of flowers. Also, consider adding under-shelf mounts for added function and style, such as a paper towel holder or mug hooks.
Visually Appealing
Kitchen shelves offer a striking design element that instantly catches the eye. They can work with a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. Whether you use solid wood or sleek and contemporary metal, choosing a finish that complements the rest of your home decor is essential. Color-coordinating your items can help them look more cohesive. Mixing in accents like old jars, glassware, or decorative vases is also an easy way to personalize your shelving.
Be careful to keep your shelves manageable and they may look neat and organized. Storing heavier items on the lower shelf can cause them to get dusty more quickly, so they should be moved up or down as needed. Keeping your shelves organized will keep them looking their best, even with the daily wear and tear of everyday items. You can also consider installing a set of hooks to hang cooking utensils or other lightweight items.
Versatile
Shelves are a great way to show off pretty crockery, heirloom glassware, and other decorative items. They can also make small or galley-style kitchens look bigger by adding visual interest. Shelving also provides a great opportunity to play with color and materials. For example, pairing wood shelves with a coordinating color like this eclectic wallpaper creates a warm and inviting kitchen space. Conversely, mixing metals on a shelf can add a modern, industrial touch to the room. Try out a mix of copper, brass, and stainless steel for an on-trend, yet timeless design.
Shelves are easy to maintain and offer more flexibility than cabinetry. Shelves are a perfect solution for awkward spaces that would otherwise be difficult to fit pre-made cabinets into. Just be sure to check the weight capacity of your shelving before installing it, and make sure it’s anchored into studs for added stability. A good quality shelf will list its load capacity on the packaging.
Low Maintenance
Compared to traditional cabinets, kitchen shelves walls don’t require regular maintenance. Hinges and locks may need to be oiled or replaced over time, but the shelf itself won’t rot or splinter like wood. Plus, there are a variety of materials to choose from, including metal and wood, for a look that suits your taste. Shelves also provide a great place to showcase a homeowner’s personality. Many homeowners choose to display heirloom china, unique serving dishes, and other beautiful pieces.
Others use shelving to display plants and herbs, which add a pop of color and encourage healthy eating. A disadvantage of open shelving is that everything is on full display, so it’s important to keep up with cleaning routines. Dust can collect quickly, and if there are items that aren’t regularly used, such as stacks of plastic cups or mismatched lids, this could become an issue. Keeping shelves clear can require frequent wipe-downs, especially if you have pets or kids.
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