Using open shelving effectively involves balancing essential items with decorative elements to create a functional yet attractive display space.
Open shelving is a popular design choice in kitchens and other areas, offering both storage and display opportunities. To use it well, prioritize items you access frequently and arrange them thoughtfully.
Styling Your Open Shelves
The key to successful open shelving is curation and organization. Don't just place things randomly; think about both practicality and aesthetics.
Focus on Functionality
According to styling guidance, you should style open shelving with essential items such as glassware, dishes, and tableware or cookware. These are items you use often, making them convenient to access on open shelves.
- Everyday Use: Place frequently used glasses, plates, bowls, and mugs within easy reach.
- Cookware: Display attractive pots, pans, or baking dishes that are used regularly.
Incorporate Decorative Elements
To prevent shelves from looking purely utilitarian, mix in decorative items like plants or display-worthy serving bowls. This helps to turn your open shelving into an eye-catching display space.
- Plants: Small potted plants or trailing vines add life and color.
- Art & Objects: Lean small pieces of art, framed photos, or display decorative objects.
- Serving Ware: Showcase attractive platters, pitchers, or unique serving bowls.
Declutter and Relocate
Effective open shelving relies on keeping clutter out of sight. Moving lesser used items into base cabinets or pantry frees up valuable open shelf space for items that contribute to the shelf's function and style.
- Cabinets: Store appliances, less frequently used dishes, or bulky items in closed storage.
- Pantry: Keep food items, spices, and other pantry staples tucked away.
Practical Tips for Arranging Open Shelves
Here are some practical tips to help you arrange your open shelves:
- Vary Heights and Textures: Mix items of different sizes and materials to create visual interest. Stack plates, place glasses in rows, and add a tall vase or a trailing plant.
- Create Groupings: Arrange items in small groups rather than spreading them out evenly. Odd numbers (like three or five objects) often look more appealing.
- Consider Color Palette: Stick to a cohesive color scheme for your items or use one or two accent colors to make the display pop.
- Don't Overfill: Leave some negative space on the shelves to avoid a cluttered look. It allows the eye to rest and highlights the items on display.
- Keep it Clean: Open shelves collect dust more easily than closed cabinets, so plan for regular cleaning.
| Shelf Level | Suggested Items | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Easily Reachable | Everyday glasses, plates, bowls, coffee mugs | Convenience, Frequent Use |
| Mid-Level | Cookware, mixing bowls, serving dishes, small plants | Functional Display, Styling |
| Higher Shelves | Decorative objects, rarely used display items, books | Aesthetic, Visual Appeal |
By following these principles, you can transform open shelving from simple storage into a stylish and functional feature in your home.
