The kitchen can be the most challenging space to keep organized. Shelving not only offers a practical solution to maximize space in this room but also an opportunity to display your style and personality.  

From minimalist to rustic, and industrial designs, here are tips on how to incorporate shelves that combine functionality and aesthetics, based on ideas from experts like Marie Kondo, architects, and specialized publications. 

The art of tidiness according to Marie Kondo 

Marie Kondo, the organization guru and best-selling author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, says that every object in your home should “spark joy.” In the context of the kitchen, this means choosing carefully which items to display on your shelves.  

According to Kondo, “Open shelves are ideal for displaying dishes, spices, and utensils that you use frequently. But it’s crucial to avoid going overboard to maintain a sense of calm and visual harmony.” 

A practical tip: Choose items that match each other, such as plates and glasses in neutral tones or glass bottles with uniform spice labels. This creates a cohesive, orderly look that, according to Kondo, also reduces visual stress. 

Shelves according to your kitchen style  

The style of your kitchen will dictate what type of shelving will work best in terms of design and functionality. Here are ideas inspired by architects and from publications such as Architectural Digest, and House Beautiful. 

1. Industrial kitchen 

The industrial style continues to be a popular trend in interiors, and shelves are key to completing the look. Choose metal structures combined with dark wood. Dwell magazine suggests taking advantage of open shelving to display small designer appliances, such as coffee machines or grinders, mixed with stainless steel elements to reinforce the industrial style.  

A functional trick: Add magnetic organizers on the shelves to keep knives and spices always handy.  

2. Rustic or country-style kitchen 

For a rustic design, opt for reclaimed wood shelves with wrought iron hardware. This style evokes a warm and cozy feel, perfect for kitchens seeking a traditional ambiance. According to the magazine Country Living, you can decorate the shelves with wicker baskets, ceramic jars, and wooden utensils for an authentic look. 

Decorative idea: Use hooks under the shelves to hang mugs, adding functionality and a charming touch. 

3. The minimalist modern kitchen 

If you have a modern kitchen, go for floating shelves with smooth finishes, such as natural wood or matte black metal. The architects at Studio McGee, known for their minimalist designs, suggest using open shelves to highlight sleek accessories such as glass jars, small plants, or recipe books in neutral tones. This approach creates a clean, contemporary aesthetic without losing functionality. 

Additional tip: Add an LED light under the shelf to discreetly illuminate the area and achieve a futuristic touch. 

Benefits of open shelves  

Open shelves are not only aesthetically pleasing; they also offer practical benefits: 

1. Quick access: Finding what you need is easier, especially in a busy kitchen. 

2. Maximizing space: Ideal for small kitchens where every inch counts. 

3. Easy cleaning: Although it may seem contradictory, open shelves force you to keep everything clean and organized. 

However, as the magazine Better Homes & Gardens warns, it is important to clean regularly to avoid dust and grease buildup. 

Balancing the decorative and functional aspects is key to keeping your shelves from becoming a chaotic space. Use a hybrid approach: Reserve half the shelf for practical storage (jars, utensils, spices), and the other half for decorative items (plants, art, accessories).