Design Detail: Open Shelving

It seems that the standard for open shelving is moving away from the bookcase cabinet or a cabinet without doors to the stand alone open shelf.  These open shelves, whether floating or supported with some type of brackets, are appearing in more and more kitchens as another option for storage and display.

Open shelving can be both functional and decorative, keeping things off the countertop but in full view.  Carefully arranged objects can create a beautiful vignette of pieces that are used every day. 

Having frequently used items within easy reach can be a convenience.  Eliminating or decreasing the height of wall cabinets and adding open shelves can make the space appear larger. Or mounting the shelves below the countertop can take the place of the traditional bookcase.

If you are considering open shelving in your kitchen take into account how comfortable you are with having the contents of what would be hidden behind closed doors on display.  Maybe a few selected everyday items are enough.  Open shelves are exposed to a lot more dust and items will need to be used frequently or you will be dusting them repeatedly.

If you are looking for something simple and visually interesting as well as functional consider the stand alone open shelf.