Although we believe you can never have too many cookbooks, it can be a tricky task to make a shelf with piles of them look good. Our clients often say that that they worry that an open shelf might becoming a bit of a dumping ground. If you are hesitant about open shelving, we are here to encourage you to think about incorporating just a little bit; it is a golden opportunity to add in character, to display items with personality and to add lighting, all of which can bring so much joy to your kitchen.
How to curate a beautiful ‘objet’ shelf …
Natural Materials Making the shelf out of wood introduces a bit of nature. By choosing something like Oak you are adding interest through craftsmanship, patterns in the grain, and a warm colouring.
Lighting The shelf featured in this photograph has a channel grooved into the underside with an LED strip wired up and fitted into a diffuser. It is a clever way to bring subtle light into darker corners.
Treasured gifts You might include a decorative vase, of which you probably have a good collection hiding in a cupboard. A vase brings another shape and material (probably ceramic or glass) into the mix and should brighten your day to see it.
Vintage finds and artwork Perhaps add a small sculpture or oil painting. In the kitchen featured here the natural woven tray from South Africa brings in another shape, colour, and texture, while the artwork offers gold frames and memories of seaside holidays and bygone times.
Frequently used items An open shelf is a perfect home for a couple of things you like to have to hand, like stylish salt and pepper shakers and a water jug.
A plant (or two or three) Including greenery is a must. Aside from the health benefits of plants cleaning our air, they look so pretty. Organic shapes and gorgeous greens always lift the spirits. Having an open shelf makes it easy to include a couple of plants in the kitchen without taking up worktop space.
Foodie Inspiration Most of us have a good collection of cookbooks, and if they are all hidden away they easily get forgotten. Having one or two cookbooks ‘on display’ can inspire us to seek out a new recipe and that’s always good.
This kitchen was custom-made by our cabinet makers at our workshop in Shere near Guildford, Surrey.
Click here to see more images of this kitchen design.
We make kitchens to suit you and your property. If you would like to know more, please do contact us via [email protected]