5 Open Kitchen Shelving Ideas

Whether you are wanting to update your kitchen or do a complete remodel, open shelving is a fun and functional option that's also pleasing to the eye. By removing the large, clunky wall cabinets, your kitchen instantly feels larger. Since you can have a clear view of what is on the shelf, digging for the lost lid or cup that has been pushed to the back is no more. In addition, the open concept allows your creativity to flourish as you curate your favorite pieces of kitchen staples and decor.

These modern open kitchen shelving ideas will have you ready to put your kitchen on display.

Use floating shelves to connect cabinets.

It’s not an issue if you can’t decide between open shelving or wall cabinets because you can do both. A kitchen wall shelf or shelves can be connected between two existing cabinets. By doing so, additional storage space is created (a plus for small kitchens) and you'll add stylish design to your kitchen.

Add sturdy wooden shelves to open up the space.

If you are stacking heavy plates, cups or cookware on your floating shelves, using thick wood is key. Despite its thickness, floating wood shelving adds an airiness that opens up what could be a cluttered wall of cabinets. Investing in beautiful, reusable clear containers to hold kitchen and pantry products helps you know what and how much you have at all times, all while keeping the kitchen organized and clutter-free. If you want to make the space unique, stagger the shelves to create a fun, unsymmetrical look.

Utilize unused space.

Fill the nooks and crannies on the wall that are often left bare and make it functional space.  For example, the space on both sides of the  oven hood can find a new purpose with simple, yet stylish shelving.

Use lighting to brighten a kitchen.

Lighting adds extra drama to any space and can be a necessary functional addition when cooking and cleaning the kitchen. Highlighting the contents of the shelf with overhead sconces and placing lighting under the shelf brightens up even the darkest colored walls. 

Open shelving is a great addition to anyone trying to make their kitchen look bigger. While displaying items on the shelves is aesthetically pleasing, it can also add functionality to any kitchen.