23 Open Shelving in the Kitchen Ideas That Look Styled (Not Messy)

Open shelving can look beautifully curated or completely chaotic—there’s rarely an in-between. If you’ve ever admired those magazine-worthy kitchen shelves and wondered what you’re missing, you’re not alone.

The secret isn’t about owning prettier dishes; it’s about smart styling strategies that keep everything looking intentional. These ideas will help you nail the look.

Why Open Shelving Works in Some Kitchens

Not every kitchen can pull off the open shelving look, but yours might be the perfect candidate. The interplay of natural wood grain against smooth ceramic dishware and woven basket textures creates that effortlessly curated aesthetic you’ve been pinning for months. Understanding what makes open shelving succeed helps you decide if this trend belongs in your space.

Shop The Look:

1. Floating natural wood wall shelf brackets
2. White ceramic dinner plate display set
3. Woven seagrass storage basket rectangular
4. Matte black iron shelf bracket pair
5. Glass apothecary jars kitchen storage
6. Industrial pendant light matte black
7. Marble hexagon peel stick backsplash tile
8. Natural fiber woven kitchen runner rug

DIY Paint Transformation

• Wall Behind Shelves: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) creates a crisp backdrop that makes displayed items pop while keeping the space feeling bright and airy.
• Shelf Brackets/Trim: Paint in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) adds definition and grounds the floating shelves with sophisticated contrast against lighter walls.

Best For: Kitchens with organized homeowners who own matching dishware sets and commit to regular dusting and thoughtful styling maintenance.

Choose Shelf Materials That Match Your Kitchen Style

Finding the perfect shelf material can feel overwhelming when you’re staring at endless options at the home improvement store. The key is matching your shelving to what’s already happening in your space—whether that’s warm wood tones against cool tile or sleek metal brackets complementing stainless appliances. When textures like reclaimed timber, brushed brass, and natural stone work together, your open shelving becomes a intentional design choice rather than an afterthought.

Shop The Look:

1. Reclaimed wood floating shelf rustic edge
2. Matte black metal shelf brackets industrial
3. Natural marble shelf liner contact paper
4. Woven seagrass storage basket set
5. Brushed brass wall sconce kitchen light
6. Jute runner rug kitchen washable
7. Butcher block countertop cutting board style
8. Peel stick subway tile white backsplash

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Wall: Paint in “Alabaster” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7008) as a creamy white backdrop that highlights natural wood grain and makes displayed items pop without competing for attention.
• Kitchen Trim & Brackets: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to add sophisticated warmth that ties together mixed metals and grounds floating shelves with intentional contrast.

Best For: Eclectic kitchens blending multiple design eras where cohesive material choices create visual harmony between open storage and existing cabinetry finishes.

Mix Open Shelves With Closed Cabinets for Balance

Finding that sweet spot between display and storage can feel overwhelming when redesigning your kitchen. Combining open shelving with closed cabinetry creates visual breathing room while keeping clutter hidden where you need it. The interplay of smooth painted surfaces against natural wood grain shelving adds dimensional interest. This balanced approach lets you showcase beautiful pieces while maintaining practical everyday function.

Shop The Look:

1. Floating wood wall shelf with brackets
2. Woven rattan storage basket set
3. Matte black industrial pendant light
4. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
5. White marble peel and stick backsplash
6. Butcher block countertop cutting surface
7. Clear glass canister set with lids
8. Ceramic utensil holder crock

DIY Paint Transformation

• Closed Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a crisp, clean foundation that keeps the lower section bright and timeless.
• Open Shelf Brackets/Wall Behind Shelves: Paint in “Kendall Charcoal” (Benjamin Moore HC-166) to create dramatic contrast that makes displayed items pop beautifully.

Best For: Busy family kitchens needing both stylish display space and hidden storage for less attractive everyday essentials.

Start With a Color Palette to Unify Your Shelves

Tired of shelves that look cluttered no matter how you arrange them? A cohesive color palette instantly creates harmony, making even mismatched pieces feel intentional. Choose two complementary tones—perhaps soft white ceramics against warm wood—and layer in woven textures and matte finishes. When everything relates through color, your open shelving transforms from chaotic to curated.

Shop The Look:

1. White ceramic dinnerware set matte finish
2. Natural woven rattan storage baskets
3. Floating wood shelves honey oak finish
4. Cream linen textured peel stick backsplash
5. Wooden butcher block countertop cutting board
6. Rattan pendant light natural woven shade
7. Cream cotton kitchen runner rug
8. White stoneware canisters with wood lids

DIY Paint Transformation

• Shelf Brackets: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117), a crisp clean tone that lets displayed items pop while maintaining an airy backdrop for ceramics and glassware.
• Kitchen Accent Wall: Paint in “Warm Honey” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9688), a golden wood-inspired hue that echoes natural shelf tones and creates visual warmth behind your curated collection.

Best For: Open-concept kitchens where visible storage needs to feel polished and intentional without appearing overly styled or mismatched.

Use Matching Containers for Pantry Staples

There’s something deeply satisfying about opening your kitchen to see rows of perfectly coordinated containers lined up on open shelves. The interplay of clear glass against crisp white labels creates a clean, organized aesthetic that makes everyday cooking feel intentional. Woven basket textures add warmth alongside smooth ceramic canisters, turning pantry storage into a design statement.

Shop The Look:

1. Clear glass airtight pantry containers set
2. White ceramic kitchen canisters with lids
3. Woven seagrass storage basket rectangular
4. Bamboo lazy susan turntable organizer
5. Minimalist pendant light brushed nickel finish
6. Washable kitchen runner rug neutral stripe
7. White marble contact paper countertop adhesive
8. White subway tile peel stick backsplash

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a fresh, clean backdrop that lets your matching containers become the focal point.
• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Clear Water” (Sherwin-Williams SW 6780) for a soft, airy complement that adds subtle contrast without overwhelming your organized display.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where maintaining visual order helps streamline meal prep and creates a calming, clutter-free cooking environment.

Group Similar Items for a Curated Look

Shop The Look:

1. White stoneware dinner plate set stackable
2. Clear glass storage jar set airtight
3. Woven seagrass basket rectangular organizing
4. Ceramic utensil crock holder white matte
5. Brass finish pendant light single bulb
6. Natural fiber kitchen runner rug washable
7. White marble contact paper countertop adhesive
8. White subway tile peel stick backsplash

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Brackets: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a crisp, clean backdrop that lets your curated collections stand out as the focal point.
• Kitchen Wall Behind Shelves: Paint in “Natural Cream” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7012) to create a warm, neutral canvas that complements both white ceramics and natural woven textures beautifully.

Best For: Small to medium kitchens where organized, cohesive styling makes the space feel larger and more intentional without overwhelming the room.

Stack Everyday Dishes in Neat, Accessible Piles

There’s something deeply satisfying about reaching for a perfectly stacked set of dinner plates without rummaging through crowded cabinets. Crisp white ceramic dishes arranged in tidy piles against natural wood shelving create an inviting display that combines beauty with everyday function. The smooth glazed surfaces of your dinnerware contrast beautifully with rustic grain textures, making your kitchen feel both organized and warmly collected.

Shop The Look:

1. White stoneware dinner plate set stackable
2. Natural wood floating shelf bracket kit
3. Cream ceramic bowl nesting set
4. Woven seagrass shelf liner roll
5. Rattan pendant light kitchen island
6. Natural jute kitchen runner rug
7. Light wood butcher block countertop cover
8. White subway peel stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Wall: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a bright, clean backdrop that makes stacked dishes pop while keeping the space feeling fresh and airy.
• Lower Cabinet Base: Paint in “Natural Linen” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9109) to introduce warm, earthy undertones that complement wooden shelf brackets and create visual grounding beneath your displayed collections.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where quick access to everyday dinnerware matters more than formal storage, especially open-concept spaces where organized shelving doubles as intentional decor.

Place Your Most-Used Items at Eye Level

Reaching for your morning coffee mug shouldn’t feel like a treasure hunt. This practical approach to open shelving puts everyday essentials right where you need them, combining warm wood tones with crisp white ceramics and woven basket textures. The natural and neutral palette creates a calming workspace that makes your daily kitchen routine effortless and enjoyable.

Shop The Look:

1. Natural wood floating shelf 36 inch
2. White ceramic everyday dinnerware set
3. Woven seagrass storage basket rectangular
4. Clear glass canister set airtight
5. Matte black pendant light industrial
6. Neutral striped cotton kitchen runner
7. Light wood butcher block contact paper
8. White subway peel stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

• Wall behind shelving: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean backdrop that makes your displayed items pop while keeping the focus on functionality.
• Shelf brackets/supports: Paint in “Natural Linen” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9109) for a soft, warm neutral that complements wooden shelves and adds subtle warmth to the space.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where quick access to daily dishes, glasses, and cooking essentials saves precious time during hectic morning and dinner routines.

Arrange Items in Odd Numbers for Better Balance

Creating visual harmony on your open kitchen shelves doesn’t require a design degree—just a simple rule professional stylists swear by. Grouping your displayed items in threes and fives creates natural movement that feels curated rather than cluttered. The asymmetry of odd-numbered arrangements draws the eye across warm wood tones and cool ceramic finishes, making everyday dishes look intentionally styled.

Shop The Look:

1. White ceramic pitcher trio display set
2. Natural wood floating shelf brackets
3. Woven rattan storage basket set of 3
4. Glass apothecary jars odd number grouping
5. Matte black industrial pendant light
6. Neutral striped cotton kitchen runner mat
7. Light wood grain contact paper roll
8. White subway peel and stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Background: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean backdrop that makes your carefully arranged groupings pop with gallery-like presence.
• Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to ground your space with sophisticated depth that complements natural wood shelf styling.

Best For: Open-concept kitchens where displayed collections need cohesive styling that feels effortlessly balanced and professionally arranged.

Mix Heights to Create Visual Interest on Shelves

Tired of shelves that look flat and uninspiring? Creating dynamic height variation transforms ordinary kitchen storage into an eye-catching display. Pair natural wood tones with crisp white ceramics, incorporating woven baskets and smooth stoneware pieces. The interplay of rustic textures against clean finishes brings your open shelving to life.

Shop The Look:

1. Tall clear glass apothecary jars set
2. Short white ceramic pinch bowls cluster
3. Natural woven rattan storage baskets
4. Wooden tiered shelf riser display
5. Matte black pendant light fixture
6. Cream linen textured kitchen runner mat
7. Light oak butcher block countertop section
8. White subway peel stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Brackets: Paint in “Pure White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7005) for a clean, timeless backdrop that lets your varied-height accessories become the focal point.
• Kitchen Wall Behind Shelves: Paint in “Warm Walnut” (Behr N180-6) creating rich contrast that highlights lighter pieces while grounding taller wooden accessories beautifully.

Best For: Kitchens with existing open shelving that need a fresh, curated look without purchasing all new items.

Lean Cutting Boards and Trays as Shelf Backdrops

Those open shelves can feel a bit empty until you discover the magic of leaning cutting boards and decorative trays behind your everyday items. The warm honey tones of natural wood boards paired with sleek metal trays create instant depth and texture against your shelf backdrop. Mixing smooth acacia surfaces with hammered metal finishes and woven rattan trays adds that collected-over-time charm every kitchen deserves.

Shop The Look:

1. Acacia wood cutting board set with handles
2. Round hammered metal decorative tray
3. Woven rattan serving tray with handles
4. Mango wood paddle board large
5. Brass pendant light with cage design
6. Natural fiber kitchen runner rug
7. Butcher block contact paper warm oak
8. Subway tile peel stick white glossy

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving: Paint in “Honied White” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7106) for a warm creamy backdrop that lets wood boards shine.
• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Pewter Tankard” (Sherwin-Williams SW 0023) adding sophisticated metallic gray undertones echoing your trays.

Best For: Kitchens needing visual warmth and layered dimension without committing to permanent decor installations.

Display Cookbooks Spine-Out for Color and Personality

There’s something wonderfully inviting about a kitchen where well-loved cookbooks line open shelves, their colorful spines creating an ever-changing gallery of culinary inspiration. The mix of glossy book jackets against rustic wooden shelving and smooth ceramic accessories brings warmth and character to your cooking space. This collected-over-time look celebrates your passion for cooking while adding instant personality.

Shop The Look:

1. Rustic floating wood kitchen shelf
2. Ceramic cookbook stand holder white
3. Decorative bookends farmhouse style metal
4. Pendant light industrial brass finish
5. Cushioned anti-fatigue kitchen floor mat
6. Marble contact paper countertop adhesive
7. Subway tile peel stick backsplash white
8. Clear acrylic shelf riser display stand

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Background: Paint in “Intellectual Gray” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7045), a sophisticated neutral that lets colorful cookbook spines pop while adding depth to your display wall.
• Shelf Brackets/Trim: Paint in “Fired Brick” (Benjamin Moore HC-89), a warm terracotta-inspired hue that echoes the rich tones found in vintage cookbook covers and adds personality to metal or wood brackets.

Best For: Kitchens belonging to avid home cooks who want their culinary book collection to double as functional art and conversation-starting décor.

Add Greenery Without Blocking What You Need

There’s something magical about bringing living plants into your kitchen without sacrificing accessibility to your everyday essentials. The secret lies in strategic placement—trailing pothos cascading from upper shelf corners, small succulents tucked beside stacked white ceramic bowls, and herb pots positioned on lower tiers where natural terracotta meets smooth wooden surfaces. This approach lets you enjoy that fresh, organic energy while keeping your most-used items within easy reach.

Shop The Look:

1. Trailing pothos in decorative hanging planter
2. Mini succulent set ceramic white pots
3. Stackable wooden corner shelf riser
4. Self-watering herb planter window box
5. Rattan woven plant basket small size
6. Geometric gold plant stand pendant light
7. Natural coir kitchen runner mat
8. Light wood butcher block countertop cover

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Brackets & Trim: Paint in “Alabaster” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7008), a warm white that creates a clean backdrop letting your greenery pop while maintaining bright, airy appeal.
• Kitchen Accent Wall Behind Shelves: Paint in “Evergreen Fog” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9130), a sophisticated sage green that echoes your plant life and brings natural, calming energy to the space.

Best For: Kitchens with good natural light where plant lovers want to incorporate biophilic design without compromising cooking workflow or storage accessibility.

Use Vintage or Thrifted Pieces for Warmth

There’s something deeply satisfying about displaying collected treasures that tell your story. Mixing weathered wood tones with creamy white ceramics creates that lived-in charm you can’t buy new. The patina of aged brass hardware against rough-hewn wooden shelves brings authentic character to your kitchen, making everyday cooking feel like coming home.

Shop The Look:

1. Reclaimed wood floating shelf bracket set
2. Vintage style brass kitchen pendant light
3. Antique white ceramic canister collection
4. Woven jute kitchen runner rug
5. Butcher block countertop cover wood grain
6. Cream subway peel and stick backsplash tile
7. Aged brass cup pulls cabinet hardware
8. Milk glass vintage style mixing bowls

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Brackets: Paint in “Accessible Beige” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7036), a warm greige that complements vintage wood tones and creates cohesion with thrifted finds.
• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117), a soft creamy backdrop that lets your collected pieces shine while enhancing the warmth of aged materials.

Best For: Eclectic kitchens where homeowners want to showcase meaningful collections and create a space with soul and history rather than catalog-perfect uniformity.

Add Small Artwork to Break Up the Dishware

Staring at rows of plates and bowls can feel visually monotonous, even when you love your dish collection. Introducing small framed artwork between stacks creates unexpected visual interest that makes your kitchen feel curated and personal. The contrast of smooth ceramic surfaces against textured canvas prints and sleek metal frames adds dimension to your open shelving. This simple styling trick transforms functional storage into a gallery-worthy display.

Shop The Look:

1. Small framed botanical kitchen print set
2. Mini abstract canvas art neutral tones
3. Decorative ceramic picture easel stand
4. Rattan woven shelf liner roll
5. Brass clip-on picture light LED
6. Textured cotton kitchen runner rug
7. Marble contact paper countertop roll
8. White subway peel stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

• Shelf Backs: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean backdrop that makes both artwork and dishware pop against a fresh, gallery-like surface.
• Wall Behind Shelving: Paint in “Kendall Charcoal” (Benjamin Moore HC-166) for a dramatic contrast that frames your curated collection and highlights each piece of art.

Best For: Collectors who want their open kitchen shelving to feel like a thoughtfully styled vignette rather than purely utilitarian storage space.

Leave Breathing Room Instead of Filling Every Inch

The most stunning open shelving displays aren’t crammed with items—they’re curated with intentional empty space that lets each piece breathe. Pairing warm wood tones with crisp white ceramics creates visual contrast, while woven textures and smooth stoneware add tactile interest. This balanced approach transforms functional storage into gallery-worthy vignettes that feel collected, not cluttered.

Shop The Look:

1. Floating oak wood display shelf
2. White ceramic stoneware bowl set
3. Woven seagrass decorative basket
4. Brass adjustable pendant light fixture
5. Natural jute kitchen runner mat
6. Light wood butcher block countertop
7. White subway peel and stick backsplash
8. Minimalist white ceramic vase trio

DIY Paint Transformation

• Wall Behind Shelves: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) creates a gallery-like backdrop that makes displayed items pop while enhancing the airy, uncluttered aesthetic.
• Shelf Brackets: Paint in “Caramelized Walnut” (Valspar 2007-5) adds warm wood-tone depth that grounds floating shelves and complements natural textures throughout the space.

Best For: Small kitchens where visual clutter feels overwhelming, or modern minimalist spaces that benefit from curated restraint and intentional negative space.

Edit Ruthlessly: Not Everything Deserves Shelf Space

That cluttered shelf situation haunts every kitchen owner who’s embraced open storage without a game plan. The secret lies in curating with intention—pairing crisp white ceramics against warm natural wood tones while incorporating woven textures and smooth stoneware. Editing down to only what sparks joy creates breathing room that transforms functional storage into a deliberate design moment.

Shop The Look:

1. White ceramic dinnerware set stacked display
2. Natural wood floating shelf brackets
3. Woven seagrass storage basket rectangular
4. Cream stoneware pitcher farmhouse style
5. Rattan pendant light kitchen island
6. Natural jute runner mat kitchen
7. Light wood butcher block countertop cover
8. White subway peel stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Background: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) creates a gallery-worthy backdrop that makes curated pieces pop without competing for attention.
• Shelf Brackets/Supports: Paint in “Natural Linen” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9109) adds warm undertones that complement wood accents and softens the segue between wall and storage.

Best For: Small kitchens where visual clutter quickly overwhelms the space, making thoughtful curation essential for maintaining an airy, organized atmosphere.

Corral Small Items in Baskets to Hide Clutter

Those miscellaneous kitchen items—tea bags, snack bars, vitamin bottles—can quickly turn beautiful open shelving into visual chaos. Woven baskets in warm tan tones paired with crisp white shelf backgrounds create the perfect solution, blending natural rattan textures with smooth painted wood surfaces. This approach keeps everything accessible while maintaining that clean, curated aesthetic you’re after.

Shop The Look:

1. Woven rattan storage baskets set of 3
2. White floating wood kitchen shelves
3. Seagrass basket with handles medium
4. Rattan pendant light natural weave
5. Cotton woven kitchen runner rug tan
6. White marble peel and stick backsplash
7. Natural bamboo countertop cutting board
8. Wire basket with fabric liner white

DIY Paint Transformation

• Shelving Background: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a bright, clean canvas that makes your basket collection pop against the wall surface.
• Kitchen Island Base: Paint in “Bamboo Grass” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9070) to echo the warm tan basket tones and bring natural warmth to your lower cabinetry.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where everyday essentials need quick access but benefit from concealed, organized storage that looks intentionally styled.

Install Lighting Above or Below Your Shelves

There’s nothing more frustrating than beautifully styled open shelves that disappear into shadows once evening hits. Strategic lighting transforms your kitchen shelving from functional storage into a stunning focal point that showcases your favorite pieces. Warm brass fixtures paired with natural wood grain and smooth ceramic dishware create layers of texture that glow beautifully under proper illumination, making your everyday items feel special.

Shop The Look:

1. LED puck lights warm white kit
2. Brass under cabinet light bar
3. Wireless rechargeable shelf lighting strips
4. Natural wood floating shelf with lights
5. Woven rattan kitchen runner mat
6. White marble peel and stick backsplash
7. Butcher block countertop cover wood grain
8. Glass apothecary jars with brass lids

DIY Paint Transformation

• Wall Behind Shelves: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to maximize light reflection and create a bright backdrop that makes illuminated items pop.
• Shelf Brackets/Trim: Paint in “Urbane Bronze” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7048) to add warm contrast that complements brass lighting fixtures beautifully.

Best For: Kitchens with limited natural light or north-facing windows where open shelving needs extra illumination to prevent a dark, cave-like feel during morning and evening hours.

Clean Your Open Shelves Weekly to Avoid Dust

Keeping your open kitchen shelving pristine doesn’t have to feel like a chore when your display is thoughtfully curated. Crisp white shelves against warm natural wood tones create a fresh backdrop that highlights everyday essentials. Woven baskets add texture while corralling smaller items, and smooth ceramic pieces bring a collected, intentional look that makes weekly dusting feel worthwhile.

Shop The Look:

1. Floating white oak open kitchen shelf
2. Woven seagrass storage basket set
3. White ceramic canister set with lids
4. Natural wood cutting board display set
5. Rattan pendant light kitchen island fixture
6. Washable cotton kitchen runner rug cream
7. Light wood grain contact paper roll
8. White subway peel stick backsplash tile

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Unit: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) for a crisp, clean foundation that brightens your kitchen and makes dust easier to spot during weekly cleaning sessions.
• Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Warm Oak” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7724) to introduce natural wood-inspired warmth that complements your white shelving while creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where open shelving displays everyday dishes and requires a practical, easy-to-maintain color palette that hides minor imperfections between cleanings.

Keep a Rotation So Shelves Stay Fresh

There’s something so satisfying about walking into your kitchen and noticing how intentional everything looks on those open shelves. By rotating your displayed items seasonally—swapping cream ceramics for warm terracotta pieces or switching out textured linen napkins for woven rattan baskets—you keep the space feeling curated rather than cluttered. This simple habit transforms functional storage into an ever-evolving design moment that reflects your current mood and the season.

Shop The Look:

1. Cream stoneware dinnerware set display
2. Terracotta decorative bowl collection
3. Woven rattan storage basket set
4. Natural linen kitchen towel stack
5. Rattan pendant light natural weave
6. Terracotta hexagon peel stick backsplash
7. Cream cotton kitchen runner mat
8. Butcher block countertop cutting board

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Brackets and Wall: Paint in “Alabaster” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7008) for a soft cream backdrop that lets rotating decor pieces take center stage without competing for attention.
• Kitchen Island Base or Accent Cabinet: Paint in “Cavern Clay” (Sherwin-Williams SW 7701) to introduce warm terracotta tones that ground the space and complement seasonal ceramic displays beautifully.

Best For: Kitchens where homeowners love to refresh their decor seasonally and want open shelving that feels intentionally styled rather than permanently static.

Know When Open Shelving Isn’t Worth the Upkeep

Let’s be honest—open shelving looks stunning in magazines, but real life means dust, grease, and constant tidying that not everyone has time for. If your warm white walls and natural wood tones are already working hard in your kitchen, consider whether exposed shelves will add charm or just another chore. Sometimes closed storage with glass-front details offers the best compromise.

Shop The Look:

1. Glass front wall cabinet with frame
2. Natural wood floating shelf with lip
3. Woven seagrass storage basket set
4. Matte white ceramic canister collection
5. Rustic wood grain peel stick backsplash
6. Warm brass pendant light with shade
7. Natural jute kitchen runner mat
8. Light butcher block contact paper roll

DIY Paint Transformation

• Upper Cabinet Frames: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a clean, timeless backdrop that brightens your kitchen while hiding inevitable fingerprints and cooking splatter better than open alternatives.
• Lower Cabinets: Paint in “Warm Honey” (Sherwin-Williams SW 9107) to introduce natural wood-inspired warmth that complements closed storage while giving you that organic aesthetic without the maintenance headaches.

Best For: Busy family kitchens where cooking happens daily and homeowners want style without the constant dusting and rearranging that true open shelving demands.

Commit to Curation or Choose Closed Cabinets

Open shelving demands intentional editing—every item on display becomes part of your kitchen’s visual story. If you’re not ready to maintain a curated collection of matching dishware and decorative pieces, traditional closed cabinets might serve you better. The honest truth? Open shelves work beautifully for minimalists who genuinely enjoy styling, while cabinet doors hide the beautiful chaos of everyday life.

Shop The Look:

1. White ceramic dinnerware set stacked display
2. Clear glass storage jars with lids
3. Woven rattan basket shelf organizer
4. Matte black floating shelf brackets
5. Industrial pendant light matte black finish
6. Neutral striped cotton kitchen runner
7. White marble peel and stick backsplash
8. Light wood butcher block countertop cover

DIY Paint Transformation

• Open Shelving Wall: Paint in “Simply White” (Benjamin Moore OC-117) to create a gallery-like backdrop that makes curated collections pop against a clean, bright surface.
• Remaining Kitchen Walls: Paint in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) for dramatic contrast that frames your displayed pieces and adds sophisticated depth to the space.

Best For: Minimalist homeowners who genuinely enjoy editing their possessions and maintaining styled vignettes as part of their regular kitchen routine.