Open Shelving Is The Trick To Kitchen Design On A Budget

The kitchen might be the hero of every house, and since it's often a gathering space, it might be in desperate need of a room refresh. Problem is, you may not have the time, energy, or funds to invest in new appliances or replace your backsplash. But, if you're looking for a budget-conscious way to make a maximum visual impact, you might want to consider adding some open shelving to your space. An expert discusses the design and tips for adding open shelves to your home.

Why Open Shelving?

According to Clint Johnson, principal of the Houston-based firm Newberry Architecture, all shelves started out as open concept. Though dwellers began adding proper kitchen cabinets in the 20th century, its original form is coming back in a big way.

"Open shelving became a renewed trend about 10 or so years ago when reclaimed materials became so popular," he shares. "It allows you to bring more colors and patterns into the space. It makes what you are trying to store more accessible, and it allows you to break up the monotony of the cabinets."

What To Consider With Open Shelving

While Johnson says open shelving offers visual intrigue and easy access to your dining essentials, he does point out that this kitchen design isn't necessarily for everyone. Open shelves look best when they're kept clean and organized, so they do require a considerable amount of upkeep. (Translation? If you don't want to put your mismatched plates on full display, this probably isn't the right trend to bring into your space.) Plus, your kitchen's footprint may not be conducive with the design.

"Open shelving does not work in every space because sometimes, open shelving becomes the focal point," he says. "Not every space needs a focal point."

Small Kitchens

In Johnson's opinion, open shelves work best when you can view them from a distance. While an open-concept kitchen might be the ideal scenario, you might want to rethink this trend for tighter layouts.

Less Storage

Open shelving also doesn't provide as much storage as traditional cabinets, which is something to consider in a kitchen already tight on space.

Maintenance

While pretty in the right space, open shelving needs to be cleaned regularly of dust, crumbs, and grime. Make sure to dust the shelves every other week, as well as the items stored there. Keep items organized and don't cram too many things in the space. Leave some room between items.

How To DIY Like A Pro

The good news? If open shelving does work with your layout, they're a relatively affordable DIY project. Though prices can vary, open shelving can cost as little as $60. (Of course, that cost depends on your materials and will increase should you choose to enlist a professional.) But, no matter which route you choose, Johnson says the key to cutting costs is to strategically select your materials.

"You can use new materials versus antiques to recreate this look on a budget," Johnson says. "If you are trying to have open shelving, use prefabricated units. Stay away from metal and glass for cost savings."

But the one thing you shouldn't skimp on is the anchors and attachments. (Simply put, you want all of your belongings to stay suspended for years to come.) "The best open shelving will have concealed attachments," Johnson adds. "They will need to be anchored to the wall to ensure the attachment points can support the shelving and what you intend to put on it."

How To Style Open Shelves

Picked out your materials? Check. Installed your open shelving to last? Check. Now it's the fun part: decking out your shelves with your favorite pieces. Though Johnson says finding that happy medium of accessories is easier said than done, it's important to create a setup that speaks to your style. Here are some items we recommend storing on kitchen shelves that both look beautiful and make life more convenient:

Everyday Dishes

These should be stored on lower shelves so they're easy for everyone to reach. Put your stacks of plates, bowls, and rows of glasses and mugs front and center. Arrange matching or color-coordinated dishes for a cohesive look, or switch it up according to the seasons.

Matching Canisters

Put pretty storage to good use for decor and function. Put glass canisters filled with ingredients like pasta and flour or spice jars on the shelves. Store your most popular ingredients for baking and cooking in sets of pretty matching containers.

Cookbooks

Open shelving is an obvious place to store these so you can grab them at a moment's notice. If you have quite a collection, break it up by baking or method and stack them among dessert plates or cookware.

Baskets

Hide frequently used items that would look like a jumbled mess. Store them in attractive wicker baskets or metal tins so they look pretty but also give easy access to well-used items.

Collections

Curate a collection of your favorite antiques or kitchen items for the top shelf, and store your everyday items, like glasses and plates, below. Artwork, pottery, glass vases, and pretty platters or cake stands add interest with varying shapes and heights.

Plants

Save a spot for your plants. Open shelving is a great place to show off plants where they will get some light from a window. They can also help break up rows of dishes and kitchen ware.

Cookware

Open shelves are also a good spot for your favorite cookware. Whether it's your grandma's cast-iron pan or the beautiful Dutch oven you splurged on, your prized cookware is worthy of displaying in the kitchen.

Coffee Or Breakfast Bar

If your open shelving is in a nook, this is a good opportunity to create a breakfast area, coffee bar, or snack bar where family members and guests can help themselves. Store mugs, coffee, storage containers filled with snacks or cereal, bowls, and plates on the shelves with appliances like the coffee machine tucked away underneath.