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Design, Design Tips

How To Style Open Kitchen Shelving

Design
September 6, 2021

Open shelving can be so beautiful in a kitchen space. However, it can easily become cluttered, especially if you’re using it as storage for dishes and serveware! Today on the blog, we’re sharing our tips on how to style open kitchen shelving, along with a designer-approved combo to shop for your space. So, whether you already have open shelves or are considering adding them in an upcoming kitchen remodel, keep reading and you’ll be well on your way to a perfectly styled space!

Marigold Project Image

#MGDxMarigold



5 Tips For Styling Open Kitchen Shelving

#1: Play with texture.

The most important thing to remember when styling open kitchen shelves is to play with texture. When we’re styling, we love to mix textures. Don’t be afraid of using all the things! Include ceramics, glass, wood, rattan, and more for a collected feel.

#2: Start with a base object.

When styling a kitchen shelf, always always start with a base object. Think cutting boards, serving bowls, or an art print. If you missed our blog post on how to style a shelf in general, you’ll remember what we mentioned about starting with your larger objects first and adding in layers from there.

#3: The more layers the better.

Speaking of layers… They’re your best friend! Nothing is sexier than stacked bowls, plates, cookbooks, and even glasses. Layers allow you to add height, which is so important.

#4: Add color with fruit.

For a pop of color, try using fruit! A few red onions or pears in a bowl can add a fun pop of color while still allowing you to keep your base objects neutral.

#5: Use the zig-zag technique.

Another tried and true tip that you’ll recognize from one of our previous styling posts! The zig-zag technique just refers to arranging your shelves in a way that causes the viewer’s eyes to dart back and forth as they take in your vignette. This brings balance to shelf styling in such a pretty way.

Shop Our Combo
↓

Cookbook / Shop
Latte Bowl / Shop
Pitcher / Shop
Crock / Shop
Dinner Plate / Shop
Colander / Shop
Glasses / Shop
Butler Mill / Shop
Cookbook / Shop
Column Mill / Shop
Art Print / Shop
Cutting Board / Shop
Cookbook / Shop
Bowl / Shop
Spoon / Shop



There you have it – How we style open kitchen shelving in our projects! The main key to keep in mind is that you want your shelves to be beautiful, but also functional. There’s no such thing as too much storage in a kitchen space, so get creative and put your prettiest pieces on display. For more of our kitchenware favorites, head to our affiliate shop! Thanks for following along.

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IMAGES / Vanessa Lentine
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