How to Incorporate Open Shelving into Your Kitchen Design
Open shelving is gaining momentum in modern and luxury kitchen design across Chicago neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and River North. There’s a reason that interior designers in Chicago are incorporating this trend more and more. This trend beautifully balances the functionality of storage with the opportunity to showcase your personal style. At Areté, our designers are dedicated to adding features that show off your personal style. What better way to showcase those specially curated items that speak to you than adding open shelving in your home? It also offers a sleek, practical, and contemporary solution to your kitchen storage conundrum!
Interested in integrating open shelving into your kitchen? Here’s everything you need to know about planning, styling, and maintaining this chic design feature.
The Benefits of Open Shelving
Open shelving in kitchens isn’t just trendy; it comes packed with functional and aesthetic advantages that make it a favorite among Chicago homeowners.
1. Maximize Space and Light
Unlike traditional cabinets that can sometimes feel bulky and block light, open shelving creates an airy, spacious vibe. By eliminating higher cabinet doors, your kitchen feels bigger and brighter. This is particularly beneficial for homes in neighborhoods where space can be limited, like kitchens in Wicker Park or the Gold Coast.
2. Showcase Your Style
Open shelving lets you turn everyday essentials into decor. Display your favorite ceramic dishes, artisan mugs, or even a vibrant collection of cookbooks. We even had a client that chose to display their entomotaxy collection. It’s an easy way to add a personal and luxurious touch to your kitchen renovation in Chicago.
3. Improved Accessibility
No more fumbling through cluttered cupboards! With open shelving, everything you need is readily visible and accessible. This feature is perfect for hectic mornings when you’re preparing breakfast for the kids before school or hosting dinner party in your sleek, modern kitchen.
4. Versatile Design Options
You can choose from a variety of materials such as reclaimed wood for a warm look, glass shelves for a modern touch, or metal for an industrial vibe.
Planning Your Open Shelving Layout
Before you grab a drill to install shelves, take a moment to strategically plan your layout. Thoughtful preparation ensures your shelving looks cohesive and works efficiently in your space.
1. Assess Your Space
Review your kitchen layout to determine the best spot for open shelving. Useful areas might include above your sink, next to your stove, or as a feature wall in open-concept kitchen designs.
2. Balance Open Shelves with Cabinets
For practical storage, combine open shelving with closed cabinets. Use the shelves to display visually appealing items, while storing bulkier, less aesthetic kitchen tools in cabinets. A mix of cabinets and open shelving is perfect for custom kitchen designs in North Shore Chicago homes.
3. Choose the Right Height
Install shelves at a height that’s functional. Typically, shelves that are 12–18 inches apart allow enough space to display plates, glasses, and decorative pieces without looking crowded.
Art of Design Tip: Don’t overcrowd your open shelving! Start with fewer items and adjust as needed.
4. Select Materials That Complement Your Kitchen
When choosing materials for your open shelving, consider how they will harmonize with your overall kitchen design. Reclaimed wood adds rustic charm and warmth, while sleek metal or glass can provide a modern minimalist feel. Many Chicago homeowners opt for painted or stained wood shelves to coordinate with their cabinetry or kitchen island finishes. Ensure the materials you select are durable enough to withstand the weight of the items you plan to display and maintain their aesthetic over time.
5. Anchor Shelves Securely
Safety is just as important as style when it comes to open shelving. Properly installed brackets or hidden support systems can prevent shelves from sagging or detaching under the weight of dishware and decor. Consulting professional kitchen designers—like our team at Areté—ensures not only a polished look but also safe and reliable installations.
Styling Your Open Shelves
Styling open shelves is an art that combines functionality with personal expression, transforming your kitchen into a polished, eye-catching space. Thoughtfully arranged shelves not only elevate your kitchen design but also keep essentials within easy reach. Here are some tips to achieve chic, Pinterest-worthy open shelving.
1. Start with a Color Palette
Choose a cohesive color scheme that complements your kitchen’s overall design. Neutral tones paired with pops of color—like green plants or vibrant dishware—create visual interest without overwhelming the space.
2. Mix Textures and Heights
Combine various materials and arrange items at different heights to create a dynamic, curated look. Stack plates with mugs, pair vases with books, and intersperse natural elements like wooden cutting boards or woven baskets for added texture and warmth.
3. Organize for Visual Appeal
Group similar items together, like stacks of plates or matching glasses, and use contrasting materials for depth—think ceramic plates against wooden bowls. Maintaining symmetry or arranging small clusters can help balance the overall layout.
4. Add Personality
Display unique items that reflect your style, such as small potted plants, framed artwork, or decorative jars. Incorporate personal touches like a favorite mug or a jar of colorful spices to bring life and individuality to your shelves.
5. Utilize Everyday Essentials
Keep your shelves functional by showcasing items you use daily, like bowls, glasses, or cookware. Pair them with decorative accents to maintain practicality while enhancing the aesthetic.
6. Integrate Lighting
Add built-in LED strip lighting to highlight decor and give your shelves a warm, modern glow. Opt for dimmable lighting for versatility and a contemporary touch.
Maintenance and Organization
While open shelving has many perks, keeping it clean and organized is essential to maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
1. Regular Dusting
Since shelves are exposed, they’re more prone to collecting dust. Regularly wipe down surfaces and items to keep everything sparkling clean.
2. Rotate Items Seasonally
Refresh the look of your shelves by updating them for different seasons. Incorporate pastel mugs in the spring, cozy fall tones in autumn, and festive touches around the holidays.
3. Edit Frequently
Avoid clutter by routinely evaluating what’s on your shelves. As we evolve, so does our personal taste. Remove any items that feel out of place or detract from your carefully curated aesthetic.
Bring Your Dream Kitchen to Life
Open shelving is a versatile and stylish option for any kitchen remodeling project. It brings functionality, personalization, and a touch of modern elegance to your kitchen interior design. By strategically planning, thoughtfully styling, and regularly maintaining your open shelving, you’ll create a space that’s practical and beautiful—perfect for entertaining in your gorgeous Chicago home.
If you’re ready to explore more ideas for open shelving or need expert advice on kitchen design services in Chicago, we’re here to help. From luxury kitchen designs in North Shore to trendy modern aesthetics in Wicker Park, Areté Renovators specializes in kitchen renovation projects that marry luxury with function.
Schedule your consultation and start your kitchen transformation today! Call us at 773-683-3033.