… on our sister site, The Kitchn, bears this out. It was easy to find these examples of open storage in kitchens both large and small, for everything from pantry staples to kitchen tools to an enviable cookbook library.
Enjoy this look at some real life examples of how well open shelving can work and just click through to view the whole kitchen tour:
Shown above, top row, left to right:
1. Greg's Gorgeous Renovated Kitchen
2. Jenny & John's Modern Showcase
3. Paule Caillat's Splendid Paris Kitchen
4. Sarah Rae's Open, Art-Filled Kitchen
5. Bella Goes Healthy
Bottom row, left to right:
6. Shelby and Joe's Fabulous Family Kitchen
7. Lupine & Dan's Joyful, Organized Kitchen
8. An Ultra-Sleek, Ultra-Micro Kitchen
Images: The Kitchn
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I dream about open shelving... or at least glass enclosed shelving....
I like the open/closed combo. It's nice to display some things (spice jars, nice dishes), but I need the space to hide my crap.
The 2nd Kitchen shown here in the photos looks like the one on Brunch With Bobby on Cooking Channel. Is it?
A combination of open and closed can be nice - particularly when it's out of the main cooking area and the ventilation is adequate...
...however, I've found that without adequate ventilation, the grease combined with everyday household dust is a nightmare to deal with on open shelving.
I LOVE my open shelf in the kitchen. It's probably my favorite part. http://www.flickr.com/photos/stlcolleen/5119176137/
I don't have a problem at all with excess dust or dirt, it's a bit away from the stove and sink, so that may help. It's always a source of compliments from visitors. And of course, it's super easy to get at the items I use regularly.
I would love some open shelving. I don't think glass would be good (I slam the doors when I get frustrated bad habit I know) But hey without doors I can't do that!
Wow STLcolleen that is really nice great job!
I agree with bepsf, I don't have the time or the energy to deal with dusty, greasy dishes. I wouldn't feel comfortable using a dish straight from an open shelf without washing it first. We live a few miles from a racetrack and a Naval base so you can imagine the dust that travels into our apartment. Love the idea, just not practical for me.
Pretty, and it may make a kitchen seem larger.
I, like fussymussy, question the practicality of open shelving. It looks great & can be artistic, but I feel funny about grabbing a dish or utensil that's been sitting out, exposed to dust, grease or germs. I already have a problem with the motivation to wash dishes!
www.AConleyCreation.com
I just dream about shelving / cabinet space in general! Ha. Oh, and counter space.