Open shelving in kitchens has been a popular trend in interior design for quite some time now. It not only adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen but also allows you to display your favorite dishes, glassware, cookbooks, and other kitchen essentials. However, styling open shelving can be a bit challenging for some. If you're looking for inspiration on how to style your open shelving in the kitchen, we've got you covered with some helpful tips and tricks.
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Before you begin styling your open shelves, start by clearing them completely. This will give you a fresh canvas to work with and help you visualize the new arrangement better.
2. Mix and Match
Don't be afraid to mix and match different textures, colors, and sizes. This will add depth and interest to your shelves. Incorporate a mix of ceramics, glassware, wood, and plants to create a visually appealing display.
3. Use Vertical Space
Make use of the vertical space on your shelves by stacking plates, bowls, and cutting boards. This not only looks neat but also helps save space.
4. Add Greenery
Plants and herbs can add a touch of freshness to your kitchen shelves. Consider adding small potted plants or fresh herbs in stylish planters to bring life to your display.
5. Incorporate Artwork
Who says open shelves are just for kitchenware? Consider hanging small paintings, photographs, or prints on the wall behind your shelves to add a personalized touch to the space.
6. Group Similar Items
Group similar items together to create a cohesive look. For example, stack white dishes together or group items by color to create a visually appealing arrangement.
7. Use Unique Containers
Instead of displaying everything as is, consider using unique containers like baskets, glass jars, or decorative boxes to store smaller items. This not only adds visual interest but also helps keep things organized.
8. Play with Symmetry
Creating symmetrical arrangements can add a sense of balance to your open shelves. Play around with arranging items in pairs or creating mirror-image displays on either side of the shelves.
9. Keep Functionality in Mind
While it's essential to style your shelves beautifully, don't forget about functionality. Organize your most-used items within easy reach and reserve the higher shelves for items you don't use as often.
10. Add Personal Touches
Display a few personal items like family heirlooms, vintage finds, or handmade pottery to add character to your kitchen shelves. These items can tell a story and make your space more inviting.
11. Embrace Negative Space
Don't overcrowd your shelves. Embracing some negative space will help highlight the items you've displayed and prevent the shelves from looking cluttered.
12. Change It Up
Lastly, don't be afraid to change up the styling of your open shelves from time to time. Switching out items, rearranging displays, and adding seasonal touches can keep your kitchen shelves looking fresh and exciting.
Ready to Style Your Open Shelves?
Styling open shelving in your kitchen can be a fun and creative process. By following these tips and letting your personal style shine through, you can create a beautiful and functional display that enhances the overall look of your kitchen. Experiment with different arrangements, have fun with it, and enjoy the process of making your kitchen shelves uniquely yours!