How to Style Open Shelving After Your Kitchen Remodel

A newly redone kitchen is the perfect blank slate waiting for your personal stamp. If you opted for open shelving, you have the best possible place to showcase your kitchen’s function and distinct style at once.

Decluttering in anticipation of a renovation means the hard part is already over. Now we work on presenting what was worth keeping. Sit tight as we look at how to style open shelving after your kitchen remodel.

Why we love open shelving

Some homeowners express skepticism about open shelving in a kitchen. It’s another area to keep clean and organized–and a highly visible one at that. But we love adding it to kitchen remodel plans for the following reasons:

• Tailored shelving makes use of small spaces or awkward dimensions that might otherwise stay blank.
• It’s a cost-effective complement to larger investments, like custom cabinets.
• Open shelves can make a kitchen look larger and airier.
• It’s the ideal venue for all of your most beloved objects, from cookbooks passed down for generations to crystal glasses and ceramic art.

Ways to style open shelving in the kitchen

Shelving that’s a pleasure to see and use is just one brilliant idea away. Test out a few ideas here, and you’ll know exactly how to style open shelving in no time.

Collections of functional items

Reserve closed storage for less aesthetic items and put your best collection on display. Dishes, glasses, and serving items stay within reach and can be appreciated daily.

Style these by creating small, mixed groupings. Add accent décor with a few small plants or framed photos.

Curated vintage finds

Edit down your collection of treasures from thrift stores, flea markets, and antique shops. The cream of the crop will make a personalized display you’ll never tire of.

Add a few functional items to keep the design from collecting dust. Pepper grinders, measuring cups, and salt cellars will feel at home here. 

Seasonal spirit

Spring flowers, summer seashells, fall pumpkins, and all things Christmas. Incorporate seasonal or holiday items for year-round celebrations. 

Use color, scented candles, and different textures to update the mood every few months. Removable contact paper behind shelves can help transform the look even more.

Open pantry

Glass containers of staples like pasta, rice, and lentils free up pantry storage when they go on display. 

Mix in small potted succulents and other favorite objects to keep the landscape of the shelf looking fresh and appealing.

Beverage station

Open shelving near an espresso machine, wine cooler, or beverage refrigerator begs for your best drinkware. Guests can self-serve with easy access to mugs, cups, glasses, straws, and mixing spoons.

Style the shelf further by adding a few more objects, like fresh greenery, an antique pitcher, or a few of your favorite cookbooks.

Indoor herb garden

Home chefs put open shelves with natural light access to work. Swap out decorative plants with living herbs that can be trimmed as you cook. 

To add even more style and function, add in glass bottles of your favorite spices to create a full-scale seasoning station.

Stylist secrets: Tips for decorating open shelves

How do we keep open shelves from looking like they’re populated by a bunch of random clutter? Here’s what the pros keep in mind when styling them:

• Larger/taller objects. Tall vases, pitchers, books, or plants add height and visual variance that keeps smaller objects from looking too jumbled.
• Top-down. Working from the top shelf down helps you arrange with intention instead of piling on.
• Space between groups. Allow some breathing room between smaller groupings of compatible items. 
• Use stands where necessary. Plate stands, risers, and other low-profile accessories can help refine the presentation. 
• Don’t forget the back. The space behind shelves can be wallpapered, painted an accent color, or used for small wall hangings. 
• Tie-ins. Use objects made of materials that can be found elsewhere in the kitchen. A granite mortar and pestle that calls back to the countertop, or a wooden bowl that coordinates with the flooring.

Find more inspiration for your kitchen remodel at The Designery

Professional design and careful planning make styling your new kitchen a snap. Let the attention to detail and custom finishing touches provided by The Designery lay the foundation for a kitchen that feels like home.

Book your free consultation today.