How to decorate with open storage

Discover how open storage can transform your kitchen into a modern, organized, and functional space. Open shelving not only enhances the overall design but also offers easy access to your favorite kitchenware and decor. In this guide, we explore five creative ways to incorporate open storage in your kitchen, helping you maximize space while adding personality and charm.

Explore five ways to incorporate open shelving into your kitchen design, maximizing space and adding personality.

Open shelving enhances your kitchen's functionality while contributing to a sleek, contemporary aesthetic.

Combine cabinets with open shelves

In most kitchens, having closed storage is essential for maintaining a tidy and organized space. However, many homeowners also desire decorative and functional elements, even in the kitchen. Open shelves are the perfect solution, offering a way to combine practical kitchen storage with the ability to display your favorite tableware. By incorporating open shelving alongside closed cabinets, you can achieve a balanced and functional kitchen design that is both organized and visually appealing.

Open shelves are easy to adapt to the dimensions of the room.

Mixing closed cabinets with open shelves creates a functional yet decorative kitchen design

Create a kitchen design that’s both practical and elegant by incorporating open shelves alongside closed cabinets for optimal organization.

Built-in shelves for a smart and airy kitchen

Do you dream of a kitchen where every centimeter is smartly utilized for storage, yet still feels open and airy? Built-in shelves in an overhead cabinet without doors are the perfect solution. They make the most of every inch of wall space while creating a more open and spacious feel.

The open shelves create a subtle contrast to the smooth doors.

Maximize wall space with built-in shelves in overhead cabinets, creating a functional and open kitchen design.

Open shelves are perfect storage but also create an airy feeling.

Kitchen island with open storage

Open storage in a kitchen island is a practical and elegant solution for storing items like serving bowls, jugs, and utensils that you need quick access to. Not only does it provide easy access, but it also enhances the overall kitchen design, adding a functional and aesthetic touch to your kitchen island.

Discover kitchen island inspiration and ideas.

Create a personal expression through open display.

Kitchen island with open storage creates a beautiful detail in the kitchen.

Make room for your favorite decorations.

Maximize storage with open shelving

Open shelving is a great way to optimize storage in small kitchens or apartments without making the space feel cluttered. By carefully organizing the shelves and displaying only the essentials, you can create a clean, airy look. With the right approach, open shelves can enhance both functionality and style in compact living spaces.

Open shelving allows you to display your favorite items while maintaining a tidy, airy feel in smaller spaces.

Open shelving helps optimize storage in small spaces, providing easy access to essentials while maintaining a clean and airy look.

Maximize storage with open shelving, without overcrowding the kitchen.

Floating shelf

Floating shelves contribute to a sense of airiness, with their clean lines creating harmony between materials and colors. For a personal touch, consider adding a small painting, ceramic jugs, or any other items you’ve been saving. This will help you create a beautiful still life that adds both character and charm to your kitchen.

See more kitchen inspiration.

Display your favorite items on floating shelves to craft a beautiful still life that adds character and charm to your kitchen.

The illusion of floating shelves contributes to a lovely spaciousness in the kitchen.

Shelfs without bracket gives a beautiful and minimalist impression.


Frequently asked questions about open storage in the kitchen

What are the benefits of open shelves in the kitchen?

Open shelves maximize storage, make the kitchen more accessible, and create a more airy feel. They are also an excellent way to display beautiful items and create a personal expression in the kitchen.

What should I store on open shelves?

On open shelves, you can store items you use frequently, such as plates, glasses, and kitchen utensils. You can also use the shelves to display decorative items, like vases, pots, or artwork.

How can I create a personal expression with open shelves?

Create a personal expression by displaying decorative items that match your style, such as ceramics, books, or small artworks, and create a harmonious mix of colors and materials.

Can I use open shelves in a small kitchen?

Yes, open shelves are an excellent choice for small kitchens because they allow you to maximize wall space without making the kitchen feel cramped. By organizing the shelves well, you can achieve both practical storage and an airy, open impression.

How can I combine open shelves with closed cabinets?

A good combination is to use open shelves to display decorative items or frequently used objects, while closed cabinets can be used to store things you don’t want visible, such as food items or less aesthetic objects.

Here, we’ve also gathered kitchen inspiration, ideas for kitchen furnishings, worktop options, appliances, tips for kitchen renovation, and kitchen guides on planning your new kitchen.


Hannah Petersson