I love spending time in my kitchen, and I know many others do too.
That’s why it’s important to make sure it looks and feels just right.
One way to achieve this is by adding some creative and stylish decor to your kitchen shelves.
With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Kitchen Shelf
- Stainless Steel Wall Shelf with Integrated Utensil Holder: This versatile shelf provides additional storage space and keeps your cooking utensils within easy reach. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s easy to clean and matches almost any kitchen décor .
- Wood Butcher Block Bakers Rack: This freestanding bakers rack offers additional shelving and counter space for food preparation, appliances, or dishes. The butcher block top provides a beautiful and functional work surface .
- Expandable Spice Rack Organizer: This expandable organizer helps you maximize your cabinet space and keep your spices neatly organized. The tiered design provides easy access to all your spices .
- Floating Shelves with Glass Inserts: These modern floating shelves with glass inserts add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. The glass shelves help to showcase your dishes and other decorative items .
- Corner Bakers Rack with Wine Glass Holder: This space-saving corner bakers rack provides additional storage and hanging space for your wine glasses. The shelves are perfect for storing cookbooks, dishes, or other kitchen essentials .
- Freestanding Pot and Pan Rack: This freestanding pot and pan rack keeps your cookware organized and within easy reach. It frees up cabinet space and allows air circulation to prevent rust .
- Hanging Fruit Basket: A hanging fruit basket is a stylish and functional way to store your fruits and vegetables. It improves air circulation and keeps your produce fresh longer .
- Built-in Cutting Board Shelf: A built-in cutting board shelf creates a designated food prep area in your kitchen. It protects your countertops and adds a touch of rustic charm .
- Wine Rack with Glassware Storage: This wine rack with built-in glassware storage is a perfect solution for wine lovers. It keeps your wine bottles organized and your glasses within easy reach .
- Pantry Cabinet with Open Display Shelves: Pantry cabinets with open display shelves allow you to showcase your dishes and other decorative items. They provide additional storage space and add a touch of style to your kitchen .
A Chic and Simple Display
When it comes to kitchen shelving, sometimes less is more.
A simple, streamlined display can be incredibly chic and eye-catching.
Start by clearing off any clutter from your shelves and give them a good wipe down.
Then, arrange a few statement pieces like a gorgeous ceramic vase, a stack of your favorite cookbooks, or a potted herb garden.
Play with varying heights and textures to add visual interest.
Complete the look with a couple of decorative accents – maybe a vintage milk glass piece or a sleek, modern sculpture.
The key is to leave plenty of empty space around each item to allow them to breathe and stand out. This minimalist approach is the epitome of effortless style.
An Open Shelving Coffee Bar
For all the coffee lovers out there, an open shelving coffee bar is a must-have addition to your kitchen.
Dedicate a section of open shelving to store and display all your coffee essentials in style.
Line up your favorite mugs, pour-over equipment, and bean grinders along the shelves.
Use trays, canisters, and jars to corral smaller items like spoons, filters, and coffee beans to keep things looking neat.
Add some personality by incorporating decor items that complement your color scheme – maybe some copper accents or a potted plant.
Include a small chalk board or print to display your favorite brew’s name or today’s speciality drink.
This dedicated coffee station will make your morning routine so much more enjoyable.
Antiques Work Well With Open Shelves
Open shelving in the kitchen provides the perfect opportunity to showcase antique finds and vintage treasures.
The rustic charm of aged wood, faded signs, and well-worn objects creates a warm and inviting feeling.
Intersperse your everyday dishes and glasses with antique plates, mason jars, and ceramics for an eclectic collected-over-time look.
Hang antique cooking implements like graters, whisks, or molds from the shelves themselves.
Display a vintage scale with a bowl of fruit or rested against antique hardcover books.
Top shelves with antique bread boxes, tins, or milk crates to vary the heights.
The key is to mix and layer pieces you love in a carefree, unfussy way.
The juxtaposition of old and new pieces gives open shelving personality.
Bar Cabinet With Patterned Backsplash
For a truly showstopping kitchen display, consider incorporating an open bar cabinet against a bold, patterned backsplash.
The combination makes for a sophisticated focal point that’s sure to grab attention.
Choose a backsplash tile in a eye-catching print or vibrant color like a Moroccan-inspired cement tile or bright Mexican talavera tiles.
Then, mount open shelving cabinets with glass fronts against the backsplash to create a dedicated bar area.
Artfully arrange your stemware, decanters, cocktail shakers, and favorite spirits on the shelves, allowing the patterned backsplash to peek through.
Complete the look by hanging a vintage bar cart or tray stand underneath to hold mixers and garnishes.
With the layered patterns and chic bar accessories on display, this stylish setup is perfect for channeling your inner mixologist.
Contrast Dark and Light
Creating visual contrast is key to making your kitchen shelving pop.
Play with a mix of dark and light elements for a polished, curated look.
Start with shelves in a rich wood tone or coat basic shelves in a deep blue or charcoal paint color.
Then, display bright white dishware, vases, and servingware against the darker backdrop.
The juxtaposition of light and dark adds depth and dimension. Incorporate some metallic accents like copper moscow mule mugs or a vintage brass planter to catch the light.
You can also bring in lighter natural wood tones through cutting boards, wooden bowls, and woven baskets.
Finish it off by layering in a few black accents like a matte black vase or candlesticks.
The high-contrast mix keeps it feeling modern and anything but flat.
Custom White Gloss Cabinets
For a sleek, contemporary look, you can’t go wrong with custom white gloss cabinets to showcase your open shelving.
The high-shine lacquer finish gives basic white cabinets an ultra-modern, almost futuristic vibe.
Have floor-to-ceiling cabinetry installed, leaving spaces for open shelving to break up the expanse.
The glossy white has a clean, minimalist aesthetic that allows the items on the open shelves to take center stage.
Display ceramics, glassware, and metallic accents that play off the sheen of the cabinets.
Offset the look with some warmer wood tones from cutting boards, wooden bowls, or a small potted plant. Integration lighting along the shelves enhances the glow.
For textural contrast, incorporate a white subway tile backsplash with gray grout.
These custom glossy cabinets are the definition of modern kitchen chic.
Edgy Shelves in Stainless
For a kitchen that packs a punch, consider edgy shelves in stainless steel.
The industrial vibe of stainless steel instantly elevates your space, and combined with sharp angles or geometric shapes, these shelves create a look that’s both modern and undeniably cool.
Picture gleaming shelves showcasing pops of color from your favorite ceramics or cookbooks.
Stainless steel shelves are also incredibly durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for the busy kitchen.
Farmhouse Style Cabinets and Shelving
For a warm, welcoming kitchen aesthetic, incorporate farmhouse style open shelving and cabinets.
Start with shelves and cabinetry made from reclaimed wood in a warm honey or weathered gray tone.
The natural knots and distressed finish add tons of rustic charm. Leave a few shelves open without cabinet doors to create the perfect spot to display your favorite dishware, vintage jars, planters and other homey accents.
Flank the open shelves with cabinet doors adorned with antique chicken wire or beadboard for that classic farmhouse feel.
Hang cuisine art prints or vintage signs overhead to complement the vintage vibe.
Stack basic white dishes, cutting boards, and pitchers on the open shelves alongside mason jars filled with utensils or dried flowers.
A few well-placed potted herbs complete the fresh farmhouse aesthetic.
This laid-back, lived-in style makes your kitchen feel extra cozy.
Functional Repurposed Open Shelving
Open shelving doesn’t have to be limited to traditional cabinetry.
Get creative by repurposing unique flea market finds or everyday objects into unexpected yet functional kitchen shelves.
An antique wooden ladder, stripped and lightly sanded, can be mounted horizontally to form rustic shelves perfect for displaying dishes, cookbooks, and potted herbs.
Or hang multiple vintage baking trays or bakers’ racks on the wall using sturdy brackets to create industrial chic open storage nooks.
Even an old wooden toolbox can find new life when mounted open side facing outward to hold spices and oils.
Scour antique shops and flea markets for interesting items like printers’ trays or tabletops from discarded tables that could make one-of-a-kind open shelving.
Just add some paint, stain or a clear sealant to any repurposed wood pieces for protection.
These unique, resourceful open shelves add character and function.
Gray Open Shelving
For a kitchen with a modern, sophisticated feel, incorporate open shelving in shades of warm and cool gray tones.
Start with shelves painted in a deep charcoal or washed gray color.
The muted hue provides a clean backdrop to display dishware, glasses, and decorative accents.
Arrange stacks of simple white dishes along with pops of color from bright ceramic vases or bowls in blues, greens, or even yellows.
The colored pieces will stand out beautifully against the gray shelving. Incorporate textural elements like woven baskets, antique wood cutting boards, and slate serving pieces.
Top shelves with potted greenery or herbs in neutral ceramic planters.
For added interest, hang one large antique gray mirror or piece of framed overscale artwork on the wall behind the open shelves.
The soft gray palette allows your favorite kitchen items and accents to take center stage.
Industrial Style Shelves
Give your kitchen an edgy, urban vibe with open shelving in an industrial style.
Start with shelves made from thick planks of naturally rustic wood or shelves crafted from metal pipes and fittings.
The rough, utilitarian materials are key to achieving this pared-down look.
Arrange an eclectic mix of vintage and modern pieces on the shelves – think enamel cooking pots, mason jars filled with utensils, and antique gears or machine parts used as sculptural accents.
Incorporate lots of raw metal like zinc buckets to hold wooden spoons or galvanized tins to corral packets and boxes.
Don’t be afraid to leave parts of the shelving units exposed, letting pipes and fittings show.
Finish the space with an old metal factory stool to use as a side table and artwork made from salvaged materials hanging above the shelves.
This curated industrial display mixes form and function beautifully.
Open Lower Storage for Kitchen Shelf
While open shelving up top creates great display space, leaving your lower cabinets open and exposing the shelving can be an unexpected and stylish storage solution.
Ditch the cabinet doors below the countertop to reveal shelves perfect for stashing frequently used items like cookware, appliances, and pantry staples.
The open concept allows you to easily grab what you need while adding visual interest to your kitchen.
Arrange shelves by grouping like items together – all the pots and pans on one shelf, cooking oils and vinegars on another.
Use woven baskets to corral loose pieces while clear glass canisters let you easily see dry goods.
Embrace a layered, dimensional look by varying the placement of taller and shorter items.
Bottom shelves can house larger pieces like your stand mixer or crockpot.
This practical open storage design keeps essentials within reach while showing off your kitchen’s personality.
Open Shelving Adds Storage to Communal Kitchen
In a bustling, communal kitchen space, open shelving is a lifesaver for adding extra storage while keeping everything easily accessible.
Strategically place shelves along any open wall space or in awkward nooks and crannies.
Use them to store and display frequently used items like mugs, glasses, plates, bowls and serving pieces.
Arrange shelves by category – one for dishes, one for glasses, one for cookbooks, etc.
This makes it simple for everyone to find what they need.
Incorporate decorative elements like potted plants, vases or sculptures to break up the functional pieces.
Open shelving also allows you to rotate seasonal dishware and accent pieces in and out easily.
In a kitchen that sees a lot of daily activity and traffic, open shelving provides bonus storage and eliminates frustration from rummaging through overcrowded cabinets.
It’s an organizational dream for getting more use out of your kitchen space.
Pair Glass and Brass for Kitchen Shelf
For a kitchen shelving display that feels fresh and current, combine glass and brass accents.
The mixed materials create a lustrous, elevated aesthetic.
Start with open shelves made of sleek clear glass or minimalist brass-toned metal framing.
Arrange stacks of clear glassware like vintage coupes, champagne flutes, and tumblers to bounce light around.
Complement the transparent dishware with brass vases, bowls, or sculptures that introduce warmth and richness.
Glass canisters, bell jars or terrariums filled with wooden spoons, whisks, or even branches add textural contrast.
Shiny brass trays provide perfect placeholders for displaying your most prized objects.
Complete the look by incorporating soft ambient lighting, like a pair of brass task lamps or string lights, to make the glass and metallic finishes glow.
This juxtaposition of glass and brass feels curated yet understated, bringing an undeniable sparkle to open kitchen shelving.
Pair Open Shelves With Tile for Kitchen Shelf
Create a focal point in your kitchen by pairing open shelving with a striking tile accent wall.
The tiles provide a beautiful patterned or textured backdrop that allows your shelving displays to truly pop.
Choose eye-catching cement, ceramic or even reclaimed wood tiles in shades that complement your kitchen’s color scheme.
Moroccan fish scales, rustic terracotta, or classic subway tiles all make great options.
Install the tile extending floor-to-ceiling with open shelves mounted directly onto the tiled surface.
Style the open shelves with carefully curated dishes, glasses, pots and decorative objects that play off the hues and textures found in the tile.
Group items by color for cohesion while varying the heights and shapes. Add in greenery with potted herbs or trailing vines for freshness.
Finally, highlight the shelved vignettes by installing low-profile lighting to graze the tile surface.
This dynamic interplay of open shelves and tile creates a magazine-worthy kitchen moment.
Play With Styling for Kitchen Shelf
Once you have your open kitchen shelving installed, have fun experimenting with different styling techniques to create visual interest.
Start by grouping items together by color, material, or shape for a cohesive look.
For example, cluster all your copper mugs and vases on one shelf, or dedicate a shelf solely to displaying your wood cutting boards and bowls.
Vary the heights of objects by stacking books or trivets under dishware. Lean artwork or mirrors against the back of shelves to add depth.
Incorporate shots of color through vibrant ceramics, glassware, or potted plants.
Don’t be afraid to leave negative space around shelved items to allow them to breathe.
Rotate in seasonal accents like gourds, florals, or greenery to freshen up the look.
And remember, styling isn’t permanent – regularly edit and rearrange shelves as you accumulate new pieces.
Treating your open shelves as an ever-evolving gallery space keeps your kitchen feeling inspired.
Rustic Neutral Shelves
Bring warmth and character to your kitchen with open shelving in rustic, earthy neutral tones.
Start with shelves made from reclaimed wood planks in shades of weathered gray, driftwood or honey brown.
The knots, nicks and imperfections in the aged wood add one-of-a-kind texture and patina.
Style the shelves with dishware and accents in complementary hues like creamy off-white ceramics, woven baskets in natural woven shades, and antique jugs or crocks.
Incorporate prints, textiles or artwork with subtle neutral motifs like geometric prints or botanical prints.
Top shelves withn a few fresh fruit in a wooden bowl for pops of organic green.
Finish the look with vintage metal accents like a rusted iron lantern or watering can.
This understated, neutral palette with rustic touches creates a humble yet utterly charming kitchen vignette.
The varying shades and textures give it visual depth and interest without feeling overdone.
The Drama of Wood Floating Shelves
For a showstopping kitchen shelving moment, consider installing thick wood floating shelves that extend across an entire wall.
The dramatic horizontal lines and warm wood tones instantly add architectural interest and richness.
Choose substantial wood planks or beams at least 8-10 inches deep to create shelves that make a statement.
Lightly distress, stain or wire brush the wood for a rustic, timeworn finish.
Mount the shelves staggered at varying heights, allowing for plenty of open space in between each one to keep the look airy.
Style by leaning oversized artwork against the back of the shelves and flanking with sculptural objects like wooden bowls or antique scales.
Display stacked vintage cookbooks, trays or cutting boards along the lengths for textural contrast.
Finally, punctuate with small potted plants or ambient candlelight to lend an organic, inviting feeling.
These stately yet simple wood floating shelves introduce incredible warmth and drama to your kitchen.
Thick Floating Shelves
Make a bold statement with thick, chunky floating shelves in your kitchen.
Rather than thin shelves, opt for shelves made from thick slabs of wood at least 2-3 inches deep.
The substantial profile adds wonderful visual weight and dimension.
Leave the shelves in their natural wood tones – whether light oak, warm maple, or rich walnut – to highlight the gorgeous woodgrain.
Mount them unevenly along one wall in your kitchen for an organic, asymmetrical look.
Style by leaning oversize cutting boards or antique signs against the back.
Arrange a mix of ceramic dishes, glasses, and vintage canisters across the shelves, varying the heights and textures.
Potted plants add freshness while metallic accents like copper moscow mule mugs provide sheen.
The beauty is in the simplicity of these thick floating shelves – the hefty wood is enough to be the star of the show.
This minimalist yet impactful design brings warmth and character to your kitchen.
Tiny Space Gets Big Impact Open Shelving
Even the smallest of kitchen spaces can benefit from the impact of open shelving.
Don’t let a compact room deter you from adding this stylish storage solution.
Hang a simple wooden or metal shelf across an empty wall or unused nook and instantly create an eye-catching display area.
Get creative with your shelving material – reclaimed wood planks, sleek stainless steel piping, or even a salvaged shutter can work beautifully.
Arrange your most attractive dishes, glasses and accents along the shelf, editing out any unsightly or bulky pieces.
Stick to a tight color palette of just 2-3 hues for a cohesive look that feels intentional.
Add height by stacking books or bowls vertically.
A delicate trailing plant adds a soft, natural element.
Use the shelf to showcase your most prized cooking possessions like a loved mixing bowl or vintage mortar and pestle.
With just a single open shelf, you can introduce tons of personality and utility to even the smallest of kitchens.
Warm And Rustic Open Shelving
Warm and rustic open shelving is an unrivaled option that brings a sense of comfort and charm to any kitchen.
Unlike closed cabinets, open shelves create an inviting display that can really personalize your space.
For lovers of the rustic aesthetic, think about using reclaimed wood for your shelves – not only is this an eco-friendly option but it also carries a story, giving your kitchen a sense of history and uniqueness.
Remember to use these spaces to showcase your personality, perhaps through an eclectic collection of pottery, your favorite cookbooks, or even a splash of green with some houseplants.
But keep in mind, the key to achieving that warm and inviting feel lies in the arrangement.
Consider a balance between function and design, ensuring everyday items are within easy reach, yet still pleasing to the eye.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Kitchen Shelf
- Stainless Steel Wall Shelf with Integrated Utensil Holder: This versatile shelf provides additional storage space and keeps your cooking utensils within easy reach. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s easy to clean and matches almost any kitchen décor .
- Wood Butcher Block Bakers Rack: This freestanding bakers rack offers additional shelving and counter space for food preparation, appliances, or dishes. The butcher block top provides a beautiful and functional work surface .
- Expandable Spice Rack Organizer: This expandable organizer helps you maximize your cabinet space and keep your spices neatly organized. The tiered design provides easy access to all your spices .
- Floating Shelves with Glass Inserts: These modern floating shelves with glass inserts add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. The glass shelves help to showcase your dishes and other decorative items .
- Corner Bakers Rack with Wine Glass Holder: This space-saving corner bakers rack provides additional storage and hanging space for your wine glasses. The shelves are perfect for storing cookbooks, dishes, or other kitchen essentials .
- Freestanding Pot and Pan Rack: This freestanding pot and pan rack keeps your cookware organized and within easy reach. It frees up cabinet space and allows air circulation to prevent rust .
- Hanging Fruit Basket: A hanging fruit basket is a stylish and functional way to store your fruits and vegetables. It improves air circulation and keeps your produce fresh longer .
- Built-in Cutting Board Shelf: A built-in cutting board shelf creates a designated food prep area in your kitchen. It protects your countertops and adds a touch of rustic charm .
- Wine Rack with Glassware Storage: This wine rack with built-in glassware storage is a perfect solution for wine lovers. It keeps your wine bottles organized and your glasses within easy reach .
- Pantry Cabinet with Open Display Shelves: Pantry cabinets with open display shelves allow you to showcase your dishes and other decorative items. They provide additional storage space and add a touch of style to your kitchen .
