Open shelves in the kitchen are a beautiful way to combine design, function, and display – but open shelves don’t have to be made of wood! There are lots of way to get this look in your home! Let’s take a peek, shall we?
Floating Kitchen Shelves
Floating kitchen shelves are the most common open shelving we see in kitchens. We love them when done with beautiful materials and hidden brackets.
Not only are floating shelves great for storage in the kitchen, but they also display your favorite curated goods for all to see.
Adding floating shelves is an easy way to create a cohesive look while maximizing storage space for everyday items.
Design & Photo: Whitney and Co Design
One of my favorite tiles to use in combination with a floating wood shelf is Cle tile. The design below is by Anthony D’Argenzio of Zio & Sons and This Old Hudson (where you can actually stay!!), who has an absolutely stun.ning line with Cle. Check it out here, it makes for a show stopping backsplash, floor, or really anywhere you can think to use tile.
Design: This Old Hudson & Zio & Sons
Design tip: If you’re wondering how high to place floating kitchen shelves, I typically like to place the first shelf about 18″ from the countertop. And if doing a 2nd shelf, I match the height of the bottom of the hood surround (typically 32″ from the countertop). Check out this open kitchen shelving guide for even more design tips!
Adding floating kitchen shelves to your space not only boosts functionality but also enhances your kitchen decor and overall design style. Incorporate Cle tile backsplashes and hidden bracket shelving for a seamless and stylish look that blends modernity with practicality.
The Endless Countertop…
What better backsplash than a marble slab turned shelf? The natural material is the perfect wall treatment and floating kitchen shelf combo. Using the existing material allows for a clean sight line, eliminating a break between the countertop and backsplash. It feels timeless, yet modern in all the right ways.
Backsplash can be a toughie to nail down: something timeless, yet interesting, and functional. I think this is the perfect solution!
Small decor items like white dishes or decorative objects can complete the look with added charm.
Pairing seamless marble slab shelves with modern kitchen designs can create a timeless visual flow. This trend combines practicality with elegance, making your kitchen feel both functional and stunning.
Design: Amber Interiors | Photo: Tessa Neustadt
Design: Alison Giese Interiors | Photography: Robert Radifera
A Good ol’ English Kitchen…
There are few things as beautiful and timeless as an English kitchen. The delicate details are layered to create truly magical kitchens.
One of my favorite elements is a wood simple shelf, often made with pegs.
Skipping upper cabinets for a painted wood shelf
Perfect for a bead-board backsplash. This is a great option for a tight kitchen remodel budget: it saves on cabinetry and can help save on tile expenses.
This look is beautiful with a painted bead-board backsplash, something that is incredibly cost-effective – but you’d never know it! Spectacular!
Adding natural wood shelves enhances the charm while maintaining a budget-friendly approach.
Designer Tip: Make sure to use a high gloss paint or water resistant paint (exterior paint is a great option) to prevent any water damage and make this surface easier to clean.
English kitchens embrace timeless charm with beadboard backsplashes and painted wood shelves. These cost-effective design elements deliver elegance without breaking the bank, making them ideal for budget-conscious renovations.
Design and Cabinetry: Burbidge Kitchen Makers
Recessed Open Shelving
We often think of floating kitchen shelves as wood, but open shelving can take on many different forms.
Create a built-in floating shelf look by skipping cabinet doors (again, cost-effective!). You might even add some metal rail detailing for a custom look.
Small items or everyday dishware can be displayed for easy access and added visual interest.
Recessed open shelving provides a sleek and modern storage solution. By skipping cabinet doors and incorporating unique details like metal rails, you can achieve a customized, cost-effective design.
Design: Heidi Callier Design | Photography: Haris Kenjar
European Style Range Alcove
Tucked away shelving can make for the best vignette! We are loving this design of the range hood surround with side storage. We’re seeing it pop up time and time again by designers we love!
We tried Googling this term, but aren’t really sure what to call it? European hood surround? Countertop resting hood surround? Whatever it is…we like it! We like it a lot.
Hood surrounds like this can be custom made by your builder or finish carpenter and either painted to match the cabinetry or finished out in plaster – Roman Clay would be a great option.
Consider using color schemes or pops of color to personalize the space.
European range alcoves bring sophistication and functionality to kitchen designs. From plaster finishes to custom cabinetry, this style offers versatility and a unique focal point for any home.
Design: Jean Stoffer Design | Photography: Stoffer Photography Interiors
Design and Cabinets: Kvänum
French Bistro Shelving
French Bistro Shelving makes us gasp a little bit. It’s so classic and beautiful!
When writing my 2020 Design Trends post, I discovered this brand that specializes in fabricating custom bistro style shelving. I hope to use them in a project someday!
Pairing brass brackets or clear glass shelving can make a big impact on the overall design.
French bistro shelving adds Parisian elegance and flair to any kitchen. With its classic aesthetic and functional appeal, it’s the perfect choice for those seeking timeless, stylish display solutions.
Design: Amber Interiors | Photo: Tessa Neustadt
Design: Marie Flanagan Interiors
What do you think of floating shelves in the kitchen? Do you enjoy a kitchen with full cabinetry or would you be happy to sacrifice cabinet doors for something a little more unique?
Conclusion
Open shelving is a versatile and stylish way to transform your kitchen. From the elegance of French bistro shelving to the timeless charm of English kitchens, there is a design to suit every style and budget. Whether you opt for floating shelves, recessed shelving, or even marble slab designs, these ideas prove that functional storage can also be a stunning design feature. By incorporating upper cabinets with open kitchen shelves, you can create a cohesive look that blends seamlessly with your kitchen design. The idea of open shelving provides a great way to display everyday dishes, small appliances, and decorative items, while maximizing your storage space.
Ready to make your own open shelves? Incorporating a color palette or adding brass brackets to natural wood shelves can bring a touch of personality to your new kitchen. Whether you’re showcasing beautiful dishes, vintage crates, or decorative objects, these shelves offer an easy way to create a functional yet visually appealing space. Explore these trends and let your creativity shine as you design your own open-shelving kitchen, the perfect place to add visual interest and maximize both style and storage!
Love Kitchen Design? Check out my French range review or this amazing Kitchen Reveal with Design Tips!
Beautiful designs, great inspiration for homeowners looking to give their kitchen a makeover! Great job! Hoodsly
Beautiful! In the fifth photo, how is the stone floating shelf secured on top of the backsplash?
Thank you! Usually, there is a hidden support bracket in the center of the stone for those floating shelves. It has 3 parts, a bottom thin slice of stone, a top thin slice of stone, and the front piece that is mitered to appear seamless.
So nice. Just wondering if you are willing to share the name of the cabinet paint color? Looks like Revere Pewter but wasn’t sure. Thanks!
The cabinets at my house are just the stock white from the cabinet supplier. Thanks!!
Hi! Where did you get your wooden floating shelves? Thank you! Beautiful kitchen!
Hi! You can find wooden floating shelves just about anywhere today. I would start on Etsy though!