Inspiration
Jun 21, 2023

Why Should You Consider Adding Open Shelving to Your Small Kitchen?

Looking for ways to maximize space in your small kitchen? Incorporating open shelving is a great way to add storage and make the most out of your limited square footage. In this blog post, we'll explore tips for incorporating open shelving in small kitchens and how to choose the right type of shelving that fits both your style and functionality needs. If you're a homeowner in Calgary looking for affordable high-quality cabinets and accessories, read on!

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Welcome to our new blog, where we're here to help you open up your kitchen and explore alternatives to traditional upper cabinets. If you have a small kitchen and you're looking for ways to maximize your space, incorporating open shelving can be a game-changer. Not only does it provide additional storage, but it also adds a touch of style and functionality to your kitchen. We'll explore tips for incorporating open shelving in small kitchens and how to choose the right type of shelving that fits both your style and functionality needs.

Maximizing Small Kitchen Space

When it comes to small kitchen ideas, incorporating open shelving can be a game-changer. Floating shelves remove the need for bulky cabinets and add a bold statement piece to your decor. By using this storage solution, you'll create more floor space, which is especially important in smaller kitchens.

Aside from being sleek and modern-looking, there are many benefits of open shelving in small kitchens. Firstly, they make items more accessible because you don't have doors blocking your view or access to things. Secondly, you can store frequently-used items within arm's reach while also showcasing decorative pieces that bring life into the room.

There are various styles of open shelving hardware available on the market that fit any design scheme ranging from rustic wood finishes to industrial metal frames - so finding one suitable will not be a problem! By incorporating floating shelves as part of your storage solutions in your kitchen renovation project could potentially revolutionize how much space you have without compromising style or functionality!

Open Shelving as a Storage Solution

Open shelving is an effective storage solution for small kitchens. By removing cabinet doors, homeowners can create a more open and spacious atmosphere while still maintaining ample storage space. Floating shelves are a popular option for those who want to achieve a modern and bold look, while traditional bracketed shelves offer a timeless appeal.

Open shelving in small kitchens can showcase decorative items, adding personality and charm to the room.

One benefit of open shelving in small kitchens is the ability to showcase decorative items, such as plants or dishware, which can add personality and charm to the room. Additionally, using floating shelves instead of cabinets above countertops can free up valuable counter space that might otherwise be obstructed by overhead cabinetry hardware or doors. Overall, incorporating open shelving into your kitchen design can be both practical and stylish.

Open Shelving as a Storage Solution for Small Kitchens

Benefits of Open Shelving in Small Kitchens

Open shelving is a popular storage solution for small kitchens, and it's easy to see why. By removing cabinet doors and opting for floating shelves instead, you can create the illusion of a more spacious kitchen while keeping your essentials organized and within reach. Plus, open shelving allows you to showcase your favorite dishes or decor in a bold yet functional way.

One major benefit of incorporating open shelving in small kitchens is that it can help maximize vertical space. With cabinets taking up precious floor space, adding shelves above countertops provides ample room for storing everyday items such as plates, glasses and cookware without sacrificing valuable counter real estate. Additionally, because open shelves don't require hardware like traditional cabinets do, they're often more affordable than their closed-door counterparts - making them an excellent option for homeowners looking to update their kitchen on a budget.

Styles of Open Shelving to Fit Your Kitchen Design

Open shelving is a versatile and popular solution for storage in small kitchens. It can add a stylish touch to your decor while also providing easy access to frequently used items. One style of open shelving that works well for small kitchens is floating shelves, which don't take up any floor space and provide a sleek look.

Another option is bold, statement-making shelves that stand out against the cabinets or countertops. Adding hardware such as brackets or rods can give your open shelving an industrial feel, while doors on the bottom portion of the shelves can hide cluttered items from view. With so many styles available, incorporating open shelving into your kitchen design has never been easier or more customizable to fit your specific needs and tastes.

Styles of Open Shelving to Fit Your Small Kitchen Design
Image by Southern Living

Tips for Incorporating Open Shelving in Small Kitchens

Incorporating open shelving can be a smart and stylish solution for small kitchens. To make the most of this design trend, choose items to display on your shelves wisely. Keep in mind that these shelves will be visible at all times, so showcasing only your favorite items can help keep clutter at bay while adding personality to the space.

Another way to incorporate open shelving is by creating an accent wall. By mounting shelves on one wall and leaving others closed off with cabinets or a backsplash, you'll draw the eye towards that area and create visual interest without making the kitchen feel cramped or crowded. Remember to mix and match open shelving with closed cabinets as well - striking a balance between both types of storage options can make any small kitchen feel more spacious while keeping necessities within reach. Finally, be mindful not to overcrowd your open shelves with too many items; instead opt for minimalism by choosing just a few key pieces that reflect your personal style and add warmth and charm to your cooking space.

Choose Items to Display on Open Shelves Wisely

When it comes to open shelving in small kitchens, displaying items wisely is key. Consider the colour scheme and choose items that complement it for a cohesive look. Display only frequently used items for easy accessibility and organize them in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Use decorative items sparingly to avoid cluttering the shelves.

Here are some tips on how to choose items wisely:

  • Choose colours that match or complement your kitchen's overall colour scheme
  • Opt for practicality by displaying frequently used dishes, cookbooks, and utensils
  • Group similar items together with plenty of negative space between each grouping
  • Incorporate plants or art pieces as accents

By following these guidelines, you can create a functional and stylish display on your open shelves while avoiding cluttered chaos.

Use Open Shelving to Create an Accent Wall

To create an accent wall in your small kitchen, consider painting or wallpapering the wall behind open shelves in a contrasting colour or pattern. This will draw attention to the display and add visual interest to the space. To further enhance this focal point, add lighting above or below the shelves. Not only will this make your items on display stand out even more but it can also help brighten up your kitchen.

Small Kitchen - Use Open Shelving to Create an Accent Wall

Mixing and matching different types of shelving materials such as wood and metal can also create a unique look for your small kitchen. Don't be afraid to experiment with different textures and colours to find what works best for you. However, be mindful not to overcrowd open shelves by displaying too many items at once. Choose a few key pieces that reflect your personal style while keeping things neat and tidy!

Mix and Match Open Shelving with Closed Cabinets

When designing a small kitchen, it's essential to maximize storage space. Mix and match open shelving with closed cabinets to get the best of both worlds. Install closed cabinets for storing bulky appliances or pantry staples that you don't use every day. Place open shelving near cooking areas for quick access to spices and cooking utensils.

Consider using closed cabinets at eye level and incorporating open shelving below countertops as this will keep everyday items within reach while stashing away less frequently used items out of sight. By doing so, you can create an efficient workspace while also showcasing your favorite pieces on display shelves without making the area feel cluttered or overwhelming.

Don't Overcrowd Open Shelves

Leave some breathing room on open shelves to showcase your items without overwhelming the space. Here are a few tips for keeping your open shelving organized and visually appealing:

  • Leave empty space between each item displayed on the shelf
  • Avoid stacking too many plates, bowls, or glasses together
  • Incorporate baskets or bins on lower levels of open shelves to store smaller loose items safely

By following these simple guidelines, you can create an attractive and functional display that makes the most of your small kitchen layout. Keep in mind that less is often more when it comes to showcasing decorative pieces while still maintaining practical storage solutions.

Choosing the Right Open Shelving for Your Small Kitchen

Open shelving can be a great addition to small kitchens as it provides easy access and visibility to your items. When selecting open shelving, consider the materials used so they match the overall style of your kitchen. If you have a modern look, glass or metal shelves may be suitable while wood shelves are perfect for rustic styles.

When deciding on size and placement, keep in mind that larger shelves will hold more but smaller ones will take up less space. Consider using corner spaces or above appliances to maximize storage without sacrificing counter space. Lastly, regular dusting and cleaning is necessary to keep open shelves looking their best and preventing clutter buildup in this high-visibility area of your home.

Materials for Open Shelving

Wooden shelves offer a classic and rustic look to any kitchen, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want to add warmth and character. They come in various finishes, including natural wood, stained, or painted to match the kitchen's colour scheme.

Metal shelves are sleek and modern perfect for contemporary kitchens with an industrial vibe. They offer durability and sturdiness that can hold heavier items without sagging or warping over time. Metal shelves come in different colours such as black or silver that fit seamlessly into any minimalist design.

Glass shelves create an elegant and airy feel in the kitchen, making it appear more spacious than it is. They are easy to clean but require careful handling as they can be fragile compared to other materials like wood or metal. Glass shelving comes with clear tempered glass or frosted glass panels that diffuse light beautifully creating a cozy environment.

Materials for Open Shelving
Materials for Open Shelving

Size and Placement of Open Shelving

Consider the height of your ceilings when deciding on shelf size. Higher ceilings allow for taller and wider shelves, while lower ceilings may require smaller and more compact options. Install open shelving above countertops or below cabinets to maximize space. This creates an efficient use of wall space in your small kitchen, giving you additional room for storing dishes, glasses, and other items that can clutter up counter space. Don't forget to add floating corner shelves to utilize unused corners in your small kitchen. These are perfect for displaying decorative items or storing cookbooks within easy reach while keeping them out of the way.

Maintenance and Cleaning of Open Shelving

When it comes to maintaining and cleaning open shelving, it's important to use the right materials for each type of surface. For wooden shelves, avoid harsh chemicals that can damage or discolor the wood. Instead, opt for a solution made with vinegar or mild soap and wipe down with a soft cloth.

Metal shelves are prone to rusting over time if not properly maintained. To prevent this, regularly clean them using a microfiber cloth to remove dust and debris buildup.

For glass shelving, streaks can be an issue when cleaning. To get that clear shine without any smudges, use a lint-free cloth along with glass cleaner specifically designed for this purpose.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your open shelving looking great while also ensuring they remain functional as storage solutions in your small kitchen space.

Looking for kitchen cabinets in Calgary? Whatever your budget, whatever your style, our kitchen cabinet design professionals are here to help bring your vision to life. With over 50+ years of combined experience in cabinetry and design, our team at Zen Living has the skills and knowledge you need to turn your dreams into reality. Whether you're looking for a complete renovation or a simple refresh, we are here to help.
To get started, simply fill out our form for a free consultation, or you can give us a call at (403) 720-1928 for free design consultation. Our team at Zen Living Kitchen & Bath is eager to work with you and hear all about your project ideas. We are dedicated to turning your vision into a reality.

Welcome to our new blog, where we're here to help you open up your kitchen and explore alternatives to traditional upper cabinets. If you have a small kitchen and you're looking for ways to maximize your space, incorporating open shelving can be a game-changer. Not only does it provide additional storage, but it also adds a touch of style and functionality to your kitchen. We'll explore tips for incorporating open shelving in small kitchens and how to choose the right type of shelving that fits both your style and functionality needs.

Maximizing Small Kitchen Space

When it comes to small kitchen ideas, incorporating open shelving can be a game-changer. Floating shelves remove the need for bulky cabinets and add a bold statement piece to your decor. By using this storage solution, you'll create more floor space, which is especially important in smaller kitchens.

Aside from being sleek and modern-looking, there are many benefits of open shelving in small kitchens. Firstly, they make items more accessible because you don't have doors blocking your view or access to things. Secondly, you can store frequently-used items within arm's reach while also showcasing decorative pieces that bring life into the room.

There are various styles of open shelving hardware available on the market that fit any design scheme ranging from rustic wood finishes to industrial metal frames - so finding one suitable will not be a problem! By incorporating floating shelves as part of your storage solutions in your kitchen renovation project could potentially revolutionize how much space you have without compromising style or functionality!

Open Shelving as a Storage Solution

Open shelving is an effective storage solution for small kitchens. By removing cabinet doors, homeowners can create a more open and spacious atmosphere while still maintaining ample storage space. Floating shelves are a popular option for those who want to achieve a modern and bold look, while traditional bracketed shelves offer a timeless appeal.

Open shelving in small kitchens can showcase decorative items, adding personality and charm to the room.

One benefit of open shelving in small kitchens is the ability to showcase decorative items, such as plants or dishware, which can add personality and charm to the room. Additionally, using floating shelves instead of cabinets above countertops can free up valuable counter space that might otherwise be obstructed by overhead cabinetry hardware or doors. Overall, incorporating open shelving into your kitchen design can be both practical and stylish.

Open Shelving as a Storage Solution for Small Kitchens

Benefits of Open Shelving in Small Kitchens

Open shelving is a popular storage solution for small kitchens, and it's easy to see why. By removing cabinet doors and opting for floating shelves instead, you can create the illusion of a more spacious kitchen while keeping your essentials organized and within reach. Plus, open shelving allows you to showcase your favorite dishes or decor in a bold yet functional way.

One major benefit of incorporating open shelving in small kitchens is that it can help maximize vertical space. With cabinets taking up precious floor space, adding shelves above countertops provides ample room for storing everyday items such as plates, glasses and cookware without sacrificing valuable counter real estate. Additionally, because open shelves don't require hardware like traditional cabinets do, they're often more affordable than their closed-door counterparts - making them an excellent option for homeowners looking to update their kitchen on a budget.

Styles of Open Shelving to Fit Your Kitchen Design

Open shelving is a versatile and popular solution for storage in small kitchens. It can add a stylish touch to your decor while also providing easy access to frequently used items. One style of open shelving that works well for small kitchens is floating shelves, which don't take up any floor space and provide a sleek look.

Another option is bold, statement-making shelves that stand out against the cabinets or countertops. Adding hardware such as brackets or rods can give your open shelving an industrial feel, while doors on the bottom portion of the shelves can hide cluttered items from view. With so many styles available, incorporating open shelving into your kitchen design has never been easier or more customizable to fit your specific needs and tastes.

Styles of Open Shelving to Fit Your Small Kitchen Design
Image by Southern Living

Tips for Incorporating Open Shelving in Small Kitchens

Incorporating open shelving can be a smart and stylish solution for small kitchens. To make the most of this design trend, choose items to display on your shelves wisely. Keep in mind that these shelves will be visible at all times, so showcasing only your favorite items can help keep clutter at bay while adding personality to the space.

Another way to incorporate open shelving is by creating an accent wall. By mounting shelves on one wall and leaving others closed off with cabinets or a backsplash, you'll draw the eye towards that area and create visual interest without making the kitchen feel cramped or crowded. Remember to mix and match open shelving with closed cabinets as well - striking a balance between both types of storage options can make any small kitchen feel more spacious while keeping necessities within reach. Finally, be mindful not to overcrowd your open shelves with too many items; instead opt for minimalism by choosing just a few key pieces that reflect your personal style and add warmth and charm to your cooking space.

Choose Items to Display on Open Shelves Wisely

When it comes to open shelving in small kitchens, displaying items wisely is key. Consider the colour scheme and choose items that complement it for a cohesive look. Display only frequently used items for easy accessibility and organize them in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Use decorative items sparingly to avoid cluttering the shelves.

Here are some tips on how to choose items wisely:

  • Choose colours that match or complement your kitchen's overall colour scheme
  • Opt for practicality by displaying frequently used dishes, cookbooks, and utensils
  • Group similar items together with plenty of negative space between each grouping
  • Incorporate plants or art pieces as accents

By following these guidelines, you can create a functional and stylish display on your open shelves while avoiding cluttered chaos.

Use Open Shelving to Create an Accent Wall

To create an accent wall in your small kitchen, consider painting or wallpapering the wall behind open shelves in a contrasting colour or pattern. This will draw attention to the display and add visual interest to the space. To further enhance this focal point, add lighting above or below the shelves. Not only will this make your items on display stand out even more but it can also help brighten up your kitchen.

Small Kitchen - Use Open Shelving to Create an Accent Wall

Mixing and matching different types of shelving materials such as wood and metal can also create a unique look for your small kitchen. Don't be afraid to experiment with different textures and colours to find what works best for you. However, be mindful not to overcrowd open shelves by displaying too many items at once. Choose a few key pieces that reflect your personal style while keeping things neat and tidy!

Mix and Match Open Shelving with Closed Cabinets

When designing a small kitchen, it's essential to maximize storage space. Mix and match open shelving with closed cabinets to get the best of both worlds. Install closed cabinets for storing bulky appliances or pantry staples that you don't use every day. Place open shelving near cooking areas for quick access to spices and cooking utensils.

Consider using closed cabinets at eye level and incorporating open shelving below countertops as this will keep everyday items within reach while stashing away less frequently used items out of sight. By doing so, you can create an efficient workspace while also showcasing your favorite pieces on display shelves without making the area feel cluttered or overwhelming.

Don't Overcrowd Open Shelves

Leave some breathing room on open shelves to showcase your items without overwhelming the space. Here are a few tips for keeping your open shelving organized and visually appealing:

  • Leave empty space between each item displayed on the shelf
  • Avoid stacking too many plates, bowls, or glasses together
  • Incorporate baskets or bins on lower levels of open shelves to store smaller loose items safely

By following these simple guidelines, you can create an attractive and functional display that makes the most of your small kitchen layout. Keep in mind that less is often more when it comes to showcasing decorative pieces while still maintaining practical storage solutions.

Choosing the Right Open Shelving for Your Small Kitchen

Open shelving can be a great addition to small kitchens as it provides easy access and visibility to your items. When selecting open shelving, consider the materials used so they match the overall style of your kitchen. If you have a modern look, glass or metal shelves may be suitable while wood shelves are perfect for rustic styles.

When deciding on size and placement, keep in mind that larger shelves will hold more but smaller ones will take up less space. Consider using corner spaces or above appliances to maximize storage without sacrificing counter space. Lastly, regular dusting and cleaning is necessary to keep open shelves looking their best and preventing clutter buildup in this high-visibility area of your home.

Materials for Open Shelving

Wooden shelves offer a classic and rustic look to any kitchen, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want to add warmth and character. They come in various finishes, including natural wood, stained, or painted to match the kitchen's colour scheme.

Metal shelves are sleek and modern perfect for contemporary kitchens with an industrial vibe. They offer durability and sturdiness that can hold heavier items without sagging or warping over time. Metal shelves come in different colours such as black or silver that fit seamlessly into any minimalist design.

Glass shelves create an elegant and airy feel in the kitchen, making it appear more spacious than it is. They are easy to clean but require careful handling as they can be fragile compared to other materials like wood or metal. Glass shelving comes with clear tempered glass or frosted glass panels that diffuse light beautifully creating a cozy environment.

Materials for Open Shelving
Materials for Open Shelving

Size and Placement of Open Shelving

Consider the height of your ceilings when deciding on shelf size. Higher ceilings allow for taller and wider shelves, while lower ceilings may require smaller and more compact options. Install open shelving above countertops or below cabinets to maximize space. This creates an efficient use of wall space in your small kitchen, giving you additional room for storing dishes, glasses, and other items that can clutter up counter space. Don't forget to add floating corner shelves to utilize unused corners in your small kitchen. These are perfect for displaying decorative items or storing cookbooks within easy reach while keeping them out of the way.

Maintenance and Cleaning of Open Shelving

When it comes to maintaining and cleaning open shelving, it's important to use the right materials for each type of surface. For wooden shelves, avoid harsh chemicals that can damage or discolor the wood. Instead, opt for a solution made with vinegar or mild soap and wipe down with a soft cloth.

Metal shelves are prone to rusting over time if not properly maintained. To prevent this, regularly clean them using a microfiber cloth to remove dust and debris buildup.

For glass shelving, streaks can be an issue when cleaning. To get that clear shine without any smudges, use a lint-free cloth along with glass cleaner specifically designed for this purpose.

By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your open shelving looking great while also ensuring they remain functional as storage solutions in your small kitchen space.

Looking for kitchen cabinets in Calgary? Whatever your budget, whatever your style, our kitchen cabinet design professionals are here to help bring your vision to life. With over 50+ years of combined experience in cabinetry and design, our team at Zen Living has the skills and knowledge you need to turn your dreams into reality. Whether you're looking for a complete renovation or a simple refresh, we are here to help.
To get started, simply fill out our form for a free consultation, or you can give us a call at (403) 720-1928 for free design consultation. Our team at Zen Living Kitchen & Bath is eager to work with you and hear all about your project ideas. We are dedicated to turning your vision into a reality.
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