Arranging open shelves in a kitchen requires balancing practicality and beauty to achieve an attractive and functional display. If you are visually inclined like me, you might find this reel useful:
Here are the shelves that I used:
I still haven't stained these shelves and I can't attest to how they will take stain. I've had some horror stories when it has come to staining, so that's probably why I haven't done it yet. I will update you when I do stain them. I do A LOT of research to source all of my home decor. These shelves were by far the most cost-effective (besides DIYing them ourselves). I'll break down all of the expenses in our kitchen renovation in a future post. Make sure you subscribe to my blog so you don't miss any of my new posts by hitting the below button.
Here are some tips and ideas for effectively styling your kitchen's open shelves:
1. Balance Function and Beauty: Choose items that are both useful and attractive. Everyday items like dishes, glasses, and bowls can be both functional and decorative.
2. Keep a Color Scheme: Stick to a limited color palette to keep the look cohesive. Use colors that complement your kitchen's overall design. When I design anything, including these shelves, I like to think of 3 colors that I want to incorporate. Here, I used whites/wood/gold. I kept all of the glassware in the white / cream tones so that nothing in particular would stand out. I also added in some gold tones to pick up the gold in my pot filler behind our range by choosing antique gold frames for the artwork. Then I chose similar wood tones as the rest of the decor, like this recipe box and even the wood kitchen tools.
3. Add Greenery: Small indoor plants or herbs can add life and a pop of color. They also improve air quality and can be used in cooking. If I had a green thumb I'd choose natural plants but there's no shame in my game, I always opt for faux plants. You can buy some really great ones at Home Goods or Amazon.
4. Use Containers and Baskets: To reduce visual clutter, utilize attractive containers, jars, and baskets for storing items like utensils, spices, and snacks.
5. Showcase Collections: If you have a collection of items, such as vintage dishes or unique mugs, open shelves are a great place to display them.
6. Vary Heights and Shapes: Arrange items of various heights and shapes to create interest. Stack plates or bowls, and lean larger items like cutting boards against the wall.
7. Include Art and Personal Items: Add small pieces of art, cookbooks, or personal mementos to bring personality to the space.
8. Lighting: If possible, add under-shelf lighting to highlight your display and add warmth to the kitchen. I added these sconces that are the same colors as my kitchen pendant lights. They are a mid-century modern style that I wanted to incorporate to break up the modern rustic farmhouse style decor that I tend to lean to.
Explore my curated lighting collection available on my Amazon Storefront.
9. Keep It Organized: Regularly declutter and reorganize to keep the shelves looking neat and attractive. Rotate items to refresh the look without buying new things. I've heard some people find it difficult to keep their open shelving neat and organized. Fortunately, I don't have this issue. I have the issue of keeping my drawers organized because "out of sight, out of mind." When I can see the items regularly, I'm much more likely to keep them neat and tidy vs. the things I throw in my "junk" drawers.
10. Practical Items as Decor: Use beautiful kitchen tools, like wooden spoons or a stylish kettle, as part of the decor. Here's the kettle that I keep out on my stove which coordinates with the black and gold lighting. Just because it's practical doesn't mean it's not beautiful.
Remember, the key is to strike a balance that works for your lifestyle, ensuring your open shelves serve their purpose without sacrificing style.
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