If you’re an avid design junkie, Pinterest guru or just a fan of all things interiors, you’re probably aware of the latest kitchen obsession: open shelving. This light and airy approach to kitchen design has been popping up in all corners of the internet, and is a trend I am most definitely in support of. That said, the thought of keeping all your cups and plates in the open can be a daunting one. Today I wanted to put together a curated list of my favorite kitchens that utilize open shelving in the best way possible. Hopefully it will encourage you to give this look a go!

Sleek & Industrial

One of my favorite styles of open shelving is the industrial iron look. These shelves can be mounted flush to the wall, or to the ceiling like in the photo above. Iron works well in older homes, or homes with pocket doors (no studs to drill into) and slopped ceilings. Their thin, clean lines give visual interest without adding bulk. Keeping the space between the top shelf and the ceiling open also creates the illusion of height.

Small Space Solution

I absolutely love this kitchen by Studio McGee, and their excellent use of this small, otherwise underutilized space beside the range hood. Instead, these shelves become the perfect space to display artwork, cookbooks and home decor pieces. By adding lighting and keeping the shelf on the same plane as the vent, there is a perfect sense of visual symmetry.

Timeless Gallery Wall

Just in case you were wondering, Athena Calderone of Eyeswoon’s NYC kitchen is my favorite kitchen of all time. The deep navy cabinets and brass hardware are a perfect combination, but the highlight here for me is the marble shelf above the countertops. This seamless transition between counter, backsplash and shelf is top of the line design. In this space, Athena has utilized a large island and built ins on the opposite side of the room for storage. This leaves this stunning marble shelf open for artwork and flatware.

Propped in Corners

Using open shelving in the corners of a kitchen can break up the amount of upper cabinetry and provide a stylish solution. This kitchen by Studio McGee is a great example of using open shelving for storage and display. These floating shelves also help to give the illusion of more space in what could be an otherwise cramped area.

Subtle Storage Solutions

I absolutely love this kitchen and the smart storage solution for this homeowners plates. With a two teared shelving system, there is plenty of space to dedicate for flatware and also for artwork and display pieces. This plate rate is conveniently placed over the sink and also features an open bottom, so plates can drip dry. I absolutely love smart and practical design elements like these in a room where you need it most. 

How do you feel about open shelving? Do you think this is a trend that is here to stay or on it’s way out the door? Let me know in the comments down below. I hope some of these kitchens helped to inspire you!

Until next time.

xx Kelly