Open shelving is increasing in popularity. Its sleek and bold design increases the amount of storage space that is available in a home. Although you may want to include the feature, it can be challenging to know the right place to put it. If you are designing a custom kitchen with Alair Homes North Island, we have some great suggestions to make. Let’s look at a few popular spaces for open shelving.
In a Corner
The corner may be an unusual place to install shelves, but doing so frees up other space on the walls and may be the only place to install the feature if you have windows or large appliances in the room. Corners work well for open shelving because they add a geometric decorative design to your room and are ideally used for smaller items such as plants, pottery or your favorite spices in beautiful glass jars.
At the End of the Kitchen
Consider placing the shelves at the end of the room where space is available. This helps to break up your room and can provide visual separation between a kitchen and eating area. Use a material that compliments but contrasts from the rest of the setting. This is a great spot for storing art prints or framed photos of your family.
Around Windows
Bulky cabinets that are placed near a window can block natural light that enters the room and even take up too much space. Open shelves placed near windows ensure that sunlight still comes into the room. Place the shelves tight to the window, and add a rolling shade or curtain on the window for when you need privacy. Lights can also be added underneath the shelves for extra illumination.
Around Your Range Hood
A unique place to add shelves is around your range hood. This placement offers convenience when you are cooking and want to have certain items within reach. The open shelving replaces bulky cabinets. In additional to providing a place for functional items, the shelving can be used to display beautiful China or dishes that are decorative. The range hood remains visible and aesthetically pleasing.
Over the Sink
Open shelves fit well over the sink, transforming a typically unused space into a functional one. Two options for this shelving choice include continuing to extend the backsplash up the entire wall where the shelving is or discontinuing the backsplash right below the lowest shelf. Ask your design and construction professional to provide images of both and see the difference for yourself.
Above the Island
The kitchen island can be enhanced with open shelves that are mounted above the feature. Adjust the shelves to ensure that they are above eye level to avoid blocking the view to other areas of the room.
Below Slanted Ceilings
Make use of the awkward space that is present underneath slanted ceilings with open shelves, fit precisely into the wall. You can store a few cups, plates, and a small plant on the shelf and provide visual enhancements that compliment the room.
Making the right shelving choices for your home involves considering both custom cabinetry and open shelving. Sometimes, the two work well together, and sometimes, one is a better choice than the other, depending on the space. Take a look at both options, think about the way you want to live in your home and discuss each option with your Alair Homes North Island general contractor to make the right decisions.