When designing a kitchen, one of the biggest decisions revolves around kitchen storage ideas—specifically, choosing between modern kitchen shelving in the form of open shelves or opting for the best cabinet styles with closed storage. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your personal style, kitchen layout, and organisational preferences.
In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between open shelving and closed cabinets, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to decide which works best for your space.
The Appeal of Open Shelving
Open shelving has gained popularity in modern kitchen shelving designs, offering a stylish and functional alternative to traditional cabinets. These shelves are often seen in contemporary, farmhouse, and minimalist kitchens, creating an airy and open look.
Pros of Open Shelving
1. Creates an Open and Airy Feel
- Open shelves make a kitchen feel larger and brighter by reducing visual weight.
- They create an illusion of space, making them ideal for small kitchens.
2. Provides Easy Access to Items
- Everyday essentials like dishes, spices, and cookware are within easy reach.
- Perfect for those who love to cook and need quick access to ingredients and utensils.
3. Showcases Decorative Pieces
- Ideal for displaying stylish dinnerware, glassware, cookbooks, and plants.
- Allows you to add personality and charm to your kitchen decor.
4. Cost-Effective Option
- Open shelving can be more affordable than traditional cabinets.
- Easy to DIY and customise with floating shelves, wooden planks, or industrial brackets.
Cons of Open Shelving
1. Requires Frequent Cleaning
- Items on open shelves collect dust and grease, requiring regular wiping.
- Not ideal for storing rarely used dishes or glassware.
2. Can Look Cluttered
- If not well-organised, open shelves can make a kitchen appear messy.
- Best suited for those who enjoy a minimalist and curated aesthetic.
3. Limited Storage Space
- Open shelves don’t offer the same storage capacity as cabinets.
- May not be ideal for storing bulkier kitchen essentials.
The Benefits of Closed Cabinets
Traditional cabinets remain a staple in kitchen design, offering a more structured and organised storage solution. With the best cabinet styles, you can achieve a seamless and polished kitchen look.
Pros of Closed Cabinets
1. Keeps Everything Hidden and Organised
- Clutter, mismatched dishes, and less aesthetically pleasing items remain out of sight.
- Ideal for storing large kitchen appliances, food items, and cookware.
2. Requires Less Maintenance
- Closed cabinets protect items from dust, grease, and moisture.
- Easier to maintain compared to open shelving.
3. Versatile in Design
- Available in a variety of styles, from shaker cabinets to sleek handleless options.
- Can be customised with glass doors for a semi-open look.
4. Maximises Storage Capacity
- Floor-to-ceiling cabinets offer more storage than open shelving.
- Ideal for small kitchens that need efficient storage solutions.
Cons of Closed Cabinets
1. Can Make a Kitchen Feel Smaller
- Bulkier cabinets can create a boxed-in or heavy look.
- Dark-coloured cabinets may make a small kitchen feel even more compact.
2. Higher Cost
- Custom cabinetry can be expensive, especially with high-end materials.
- Professional installation may be required, adding to the total cost.
3. Harder to Access Frequently Used Items
- Unlike open shelves, you need to open doors to access dishes and tools.
- Might be less convenient for busy cooks who need quick access to essentials.
Which Works Best for Your Kitchen?
The decision between modern kitchen shelving and closed cabinets depends on various factors, including your lifestyle, storage needs, and design preference.
1. For a Small Kitchen
- Best Option: Open shelving or a mix of both.
- Why? Open shelves create an illusion of space and make the room feel more open.
2. For a Minimalist or Modern Kitchen
- Best Option: Sleek, handleless closed cabinets.
- Why? A clean, uncluttered look suits a modern aesthetic.
3. For a Rustic or Farmhouse Kitchen
- Best Option: Open shelving with wooden or industrial-style brackets.
- Why? Adds warmth and character while keeping items within easy reach.
4. For a Family-Friendly Kitchen
- Best Option: Closed cabinets with some glass-front doors.
- Why? Keeps the kitchen organised while allowing some decorative display space.
5. For Those Who Love to Cook
- Best Option: A mix of both.
- Why? Open shelves for quick access to ingredients and closed cabinets for storing larger items.
How to Combine Open Shelving and Closed Cabinets
For those who can’t decide between the two, a hybrid approach works best. Here’s how you can mix kitchen storage ideas for the best of both worlds:
1. Use Open Shelving for Display and Essentials
- Store frequently used items like plates, cups, and spices on open shelves.
- Display decorative items like vases, cookbooks, and framed art.
2. Keep Closed Cabinets for Bulk Storage
- Store food, appliances, and less aesthetically pleasing items behind cabinet doors.
- Opt for cabinets with pull-out drawers for easier organisation.
3. Install Glass-Front Cabinets
- A great middle ground between open shelving and closed storage.
- Allows for display without dust accumulation.
4. Balance the Look with Symmetry
- Place open shelves above countertops and use lower cabinets for closed storage.
- Ensure symmetry in placement to maintain a balanced kitchen design.
Making the Right Choice
The debate between open shelving vs. closed cabinets comes down to personal preference, kitchen size, and organisation style. While modern kitchen shelving offers a sleek and airy feel, the best cabinet styles provide practicality and concealed storage. Many homeowners find that a combination of both works best for functionality and aesthetics.
Before making a final decision, consider your cooking habits, cleaning routine, and storage needs. Whether you choose open shelving, closed cabinets, or a mix of both, your kitchen should be both stylish and practical.
Which do you prefer—open shelves, closed cabinets, or a mix? Share your thoughts in the comments below!