room ideas: kitchens with open shelving

I’m cat-sitting for a friend this week and staying in her gorgeous two-story brownstone in Brooklyn, with a backyard, dishwasher and–swoon–washer and dryer. (What I wouldn’t do for a washer and dryer!)

Her kitchen is gigantic, flowing beautifully into the dining room, which flows into the living room. It’s perfect for entertaining. But I can’t get past all the dark, closed-up cabinets in the kitchen, and how much airier it’d be if she had open shelving.

So that inspired today’s round-up of open kitchen shelves in place of cabinets. Take a look:

This is clever: Square kitchen cubbies, some with doors, some without. Just wondering what all would fit in there other than dishes. A mixmaster? Probably not. (from Apartment Therapy)

I love the long unit that custom fits the microwave. (Plus, Catherine Holm bowls up top!) (from Design*Sponge)

This kitchen has great symmetry: The modular unit up top hold dishes and glasses, while smaller shelves on bottom hold spices. (from Desire to Inspire)

I was first drawn to this because of the chalkboard wall, but then noticed the white shelves in place of cabinets with dark accessories. A nice mix. (from DigsDigs)

I like the contrast of the vertical back boards with the horizontal shelves, but I’m wondering: Where’s all their stuff? (from Sunset)

What a perfect display of cafe au lait bowls, organized by color. I could also see glassware in a floor-to-ceiling shelf like this. (from Martha Stewart)

For something a little different, you could try modular shelving, which displays pieces like artwork. Practical or just pretty? (from Elle Interior)

 

This bright white example has open shelving on top and bottom. I’m organized, but am I that organized? (from The Style Files)

 

Metal shelves are nice too, but this feels a bit too industrial to me. (from Decor8)

I liked this example for a bachelor pad, maybe, and to complement all the white, white, white we see all the time. What do you think? Too dark? (from Marie Claire Maison)

This feels more masculine too, and I really like how the two long, natural wood shelves contrast the black countertops and metal accents. (from Homes & Gardens)

This is my favorite: Open, natural wood shelves with black metal supports that complement white walls. Plus, there are lower cabinets with door to stash stuff. (from Bliss)

Now, your turn: Have you ever thought about open shelves in the kitchen? Or is the idea of keeping things super neat and orderly too tall a task?