The Weekly Interior by Caroline Lauzon

Open shelving in the kitchen has become one of the most talked-about design trends—and for good reason.

When it’s done right, it creates that light, airy, magazine-worthy look everyone loves. But when it’s not? It can quickly feel cluttered, messy, and hard to maintain.

So the real question isn’t just open or closed?
👉 It’s how to use both in a way that actually works for your lifestyle—and your home’s value.

Let’s break it down.

Why Open Shelving Became So Popular

Open shelving took off because it feels different from traditional kitchens.

Instead of heavy upper cabinets, it creates:

• A more open, breathable space
• A modern, styled look
• An opportunity to showcase personality

It’s less about storage—and more about visual experience.

Think of it like turning your kitchen into a curated display instead of just a functional space.

The Appeal: Why People Love Open Shelves

There’s no denying the aesthetic.

That Light, Airy Feel

Removing upper cabinets instantly makes a kitchen feel bigger and brighter.

A More Styled, Intentional Look

With the right pieces—neutral dishes, warm wood, simple decor—your kitchen starts to feel like a design feature, not just a workspace.

Easy Access

Everything is within reach, which can actually make daily use more convenient (when it’s organized well).

The Reality: When Open Shelving Stops Working

Here’s where things get honest.

Open shelving looks amazing… until real life happens.

Clutter Builds Fast

Without doors, everything is visible. That means:

• Stacks of dishes
• Random mugs
• Everyday mess

And suddenly, that clean aesthetic disappears.

Maintenance Is Ongoing

Open shelves require:

• Frequent styling
• Regular cleaning (dust builds up quickly)
• Intentional organization

It’s not a “set it and forget it” design.

Not Everything Is Display-Worthy

Let’s be real—most kitchens have items you don’t want on display.

That’s where closed storage becomes essential.

The Best Solution: A Balanced Approach

Instead of choosing one or the other, the smartest design strategy is:

👉 A mix of open shelving and closed cabinets.

Why This Works

You get the best of both worlds:

• Closed storage for everyday clutter
• Open shelves for styled, intentional pieces

It keeps your kitchen functional and visually appealing.

How to Style Open Shelving the Right Way

If you’re going to incorporate open shelving, the key is intentional styling.

1. Stick to a Neutral Color Palette

Use:

• White dishes
• Soft beige tones
• Light woods

This keeps the look clean and cohesive.

2. Add Warm Wood Elements

Wood tones help soften the space and add warmth.

Think:

• Wooden bowls
• Cutting boards
• Small trays

They create that subtle contrast that makes shelves feel styled.

3. Bring in a Touch of Greenery

A small plant or eucalyptus bundle can instantly elevate the look.

It adds:

• Freshness
• Life
• A natural, relaxed feel

4. Follow the “Less, But Better” Rule

This is the most important one.

Don’t fill every inch of the shelf.

Leave space.

Let each piece stand out.

👉 Open shelving works best when it feels curated—not crowded.

Closed Storage: The Unsung Hero

While open shelving gets all the attention, closed cabinets do the heavy lifting.

They:

• Hide clutter
• Store everyday essentials
• Keep your kitchen functional

And honestly? Most homeowners still rely on them more than they realize.

What Works Best for Resale Value

If you’re thinking about resale, balance becomes even more important.

Why Too Much Open Shelving Can Hurt Appeal

Not every buyer wants to maintain styled shelves.

Too much open shelving can feel:

• High-maintenance
• Impractical
• Overly specific in style

Why a Mixed Approach Wins

A kitchen that combines both:

• Feels open and modern
• Still functions for everyday living
• Appeals to a wider range of buyers

👉 Simple, styled shelves can make a kitchen feel bigger.
👉 Too much can distract from the space itself.

Design That Works for Real Life

At the end of the day, your kitchen has to do two things:

1. Look good
2. Work well

Open shelving leans toward design.
Closed storage leans toward function.

The magic happens when you blend both.

Small Changes, Big Impact

You don’t need a full kitchen renovation to make this shift.

Start small:

• Remove one cabinet and add shelving
• Style one section intentionally
• Keep the rest functional

Even one well-styled shelf can change how the entire kitchen feels.

So… open shelving or closed cabinets?

The answer isn’t one or the other—it’s both.

Open shelving adds lightness, personality, and style.
Closed storage keeps your kitchen practical and organized.

When you combine them thoughtfully, you create a space that feels:

• Elevated
• Functional
• And easy to live in

Because the best kitchens aren’t just beautiful—they actually work.