Open Kitchen Shelving – Stylish Storage Ideas That Work

Open kitchen shelving has become one of the most talked-about features in modern kitchen design—and for good reason. It’s practical, stylish, and a clever way to personalise your space. Whether you’re working with a compact layout or designing a large family kitchen, open kitchen storage can transform the way you use and experience your space. 

But before you start pulling cabinet doors off their hinges, it’s important to consider how open shelving fits into your kitchen—both visually and functionally. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of open kitchen shelving, fresh ideas for styling it well, and some smart tips to avoid the common pitfalls. 

Why Open Kitchen Shelving Is So Popular Right Now

Open kitchen shelving isn’t new, but it’s certainly having a resurgence. As kitchens evolve into more lived-in, social spaces, homeowners are looking for ways to bring personality and practicality into the room. Open shelving ticks both boxes. 

It invites you to display the items you love and use every day—from neatly stacked bowls and glasses to cookbooks, plants, or artwork. It softens the visual weight of full wall-to-wall cabinets, helping the room feel more open, breathable, and welcoming. 

The Benefits of Open Kitchen Storage

Open kitchen storage isn’t just about looks—there’s real practicality too. Here are a few reasons it continues to feature in high-end designs from brands like Ballerina, Ashley Ann, Nobilia, and Brigitte: 

• Easy access: With no doors to open, everything is within reach. It’s perfect for items you use regularly. 
• Cost-effective: Open shelving can be more budget-friendly than wall cabinets, depending on the finish and structure. 
• Makes small kitchens feel bigger: Removing upper cupboards and replacing them with shelving creates the illusion of more space. 
• Encourages organisation: When everything’s on display, you’re more likely to keep it tidy. 
• Adds visual texture: A mix of open and closed units breaks up monotony and allows for layered styling.  

When Open Kitchen Shelving Works Best

Open kitchen shelves work best when they’re used thoughtfully and not overdone. If your kitchen is already short on storage, fully open shelving might not be practical. But combining open shelves with traditional cabinetry gives you the best of both worlds: stylish display space alongside hidden storage. 

Designers from Bauformat, Burger, and Next125 often include a mix of closed drawers, larder-style cupboards, and open shelving to ensure the design stays functional. 

Tip: Consider using open shelving near prep zones for ease—like spice racks above your hob or a shelf of mugs beside the coffee machine. 

Styling Open Kitchen Shelves: Ideas That Work

Done well, open kitchen shelves can look effortless. Done badly, they can look chaotic. Here’s how to get the balance right: 

1. Stick to a Colour Scheme 
Too many mismatched colours can quickly look cluttered. Try sticking to a palette—neutral tones with a few contrasting textures work well. White crockery, clear glassware, wooden boards, and touches of greenery will always look clean and inviting. 

2. Layer Textures and Materials 
Mix ceramics, wood, glass, and metal to create depth. A rustic wooden shelf paired with brushed brass brackets and matt stoneware bowls, for example, adds layers of interest. 

3. Group Items in Threes 
Styling works best in odd numbers—especially threes. Cluster items together in mini groupings of similar height or colour. 

4. Add Practical Items First 
Start with what you actually use—plates, glasses, oils, jars. Then add decorative pieces to fill gaps and bring personality. 

5. Think About Lighting 
Integrated under-shelf lighting can highlight your favourite pieces and make the space more usable in the evening. Brands like Alku, JJO, and Bauformat often offer lighting options tailored for open shelves. 

Open Kitchen Shelving Ideas for Different Layouts

Open shelving isn’t just for sprawling kitchens. Here’s how to adapt the concept to suit different spaces: 

• For Small Kitchens 
  Use one or two slim shelves above the sink or hob. Keep them light and minimal to avoid overwhelming the room. Glass or floating shelves work best. 

• For Large Kitchens 
  Go bold with a full wall of open shelving or a combination of tall open units with closed base cabinets. You could also flank a central range cooker with symmetrical shelves for a balanced look. 

• For Kitchen Islands 
  Consider open shelving at the end of your island for storing cookbooks, baskets, or wine. It’s a subtle way to add function and detail without clutter. 

• For Utility Spaces or Larders 
  In utility areas, open shelves make it easy to grab cleaning supplies or laundry essentials. In walk-in larders, they give a traditional pantry-style feel with modern ease. 

Materials to Consider

Your choice of material can completely change the tone of your open shelving. Some popular options include: 

• Wood: Adds warmth and contrast—ideal in modern or shaker-style kitchens. 
• Metal: Perfect for industrial or contemporary spaces. Powder-coated finishes are popular in Bauformat and Nobilia ranges. 
• Glass: Keeps things feeling light and is ideal for showcasing glassware. 
• Laminate or Veneer: Available in a wide range of finishes, often matching door fronts for a seamless look.  

How to Keep Open Shelves Looking Great

Let’s be honest—open shelves do require a bit more upkeep than closed cupboards. But with the right set-up, they’re easy to manage. 

• Avoid overloading: Keep shelves no more than two-thirds full to allow breathing space. 
• Clean regularly: Wipe down shelves weekly to prevent grease and dust build-up. 
• Rotate displays: Refreshing your shelves seasonally keeps the look interesting and prevents clutter. 
• Be selective: Don’t display every mug you own. Choose your best-looking or most used items. 

What Designers Are Doing with Open Shelving

Open kitchen storage continues to evolve. Many German kitchen brands are integrating shelving within wall units, alcoves, and even behind fluted glass for a part-open, part-closed look. 

Rotpunkt, for example, offer modular shelving systems in a range of matte finishes that coordinate with door colours. Next125 takes it further with architectural open frame systems that can extend from floor to ceiling or float between two walls. Ashley Ann and Alku offer bespoke shelving to match cabinetry in both painted and woodgrain finishes. 

Final Thoughts: Should You Go for Open Kitchen Shelving?

If you want a kitchen that feels lighter, more personal, and more connected to your everyday routine, open shelving could be the design feature that ties everything together. It’s not for everyone, but when designed well and styled thoughtfully, open kitchen shelving is one of the most practical and stylish storage choices you can make.

Ready to Explore Open Kitchen Shelving That Works in Real Life?

Speak to your local kitchen designer to discover how to combine stylish shelving with smart storage that fits your lifestyle. Working with a local Kitchen Specialist can help you tailor the concept to suit your lifestyle, space, and budget. Whether you’re looking at contemporary German brands like Ballerina and Brigitte, or flexible British options like JJO and Ashley Ann, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to integrating open storage that works.