The Pros & Cons of Open Shelving
Open shelving can be great in a kitchen, but it’s sometimes difficult to say whether it’s right for your kitchen. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks to consider when planning your kitchen setup.
Pros
Warm, accessible storage options
Open shelving means you likely have more flexibility to prop up your most frequently used items behind your stove where you can grab them when you’re ready to use them,. As a bonus, guests often don’t need to ask where items are kept, creating a sense of warmth and familiarity.
Opens your kitchen space
Open shelving may be a great design choice for those who want their kitchen to feel more spacious. In small spaces, traditional cabinet doors close off the space, especially if they're a dark finish.
Is a budget-friendly solution
Cabinetry isn’t cheap. Choosing an open shelving kitchen design can help you save a considerable amount of money. Open shelving can be set up in a day, which is ideal for people who want to upgrade their kitchen with little to no renovation.
Cleaning is easier
No need to empty a stacked-full cupboard or cluttered drawer to clean them out.
Cons
You’ll have to clean more often
Given that there is nowhere for dirt and dust to hide, you will add a little extra time to your cleaning schedule, since you will regularly wipe down not only the shelves but the items on it as well.
It can appear cheap
When having open shelving in your kitchen, it is important to choose high quality materials — for both the shelf and items on it — since it is likely to draw most attention. Otherwise it can appear tacky.
Can create clutter
To avoid visual clutter, refrain from storing random items on open shelves. Keep uniform items together — plates with places, bowls with bowls, etc. — and stick to your setup. Avoid mismatched or novelty items unless you’re using it intentionally as a statement piece.
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