Open Shelving vs. Upper Cabinets: Which is Right for Your Kitchen?

When planning a kitchen remodel, one of the most debated design choices is deciding between open shelving and upper cabinets. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your kitchen layout, storage needs, and personal style. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best decision for your space.

Open Shelving: The Pros and Cons

Pros of Open Shelving

  1. Aesthetics

    • Open shelving gives kitchens a modern, airy feel. It’s perfect for showcasing beautiful dishes, glassware, and decor.

    • The open design creates a sense of space, especially in smaller kitchens.

  2. Accessibility

    • Everything is within reach. No more fumbling around in cabinets to find what you need.

    • It’s easy to spot what’s missing or needs replenishing.

  3. Cost-Effective

    • Shelving materials like wood or metal brackets are often less expensive than full upper cabinets.

    • Installing open shelves is generally less labor-intensive, saving on installation costs.

  4. Customization

    • Shelves can be tailored to your specific needs and style, with options for custom stains, materials, and finishes.

Cons of Open Shelving

  1. Maintenance

    • Open shelves require frequent cleaning since items are exposed to dust, grease, and kitchen residue.

    • Dishware and glassware need to be kept tidy at all times to avoid a cluttered look.

  2. Limited Storage

    • Open shelving doesn’t provide as much storage as upper cabinets, making it challenging for those with lots of kitchen gadgets and supplies.

  3. Lack of Concealment

    • There’s no hiding messy items. If you’re not naturally organized, open shelving might not be the best choice.

Upper Cabinets: The Pros and Cons

Pros of Upper Cabinets

  1. Ample Storage

    • Cabinets offer enclosed storage, making it easy to hide clutter and keep your kitchen looking clean.

    • They provide more space for bulky items like mixers, blenders, or pantry goods.

  2. Protection

    • Items stored in cabinets are protected from dust, grease, and sunlight, keeping them cleaner for longer.

  3. Timeless Look

    • Upper cabinets are a classic choice and fit well with traditional or transitional kitchen designs.

    • They can be customized with various door styles, colors, and hardware for a polished look.

Cons of Upper Cabinets

  1. Cost

    • Cabinets are generally more expensive than open shelving, especially if you opt for custom designs.

  2. Bulkiness

    • Upper cabinets can make small kitchens feel cramped or dark, as they occupy a significant amount of visual space.

  3. Inaccessibility

    • Items stored at the back or top shelves can be harder to reach, especially in deeper cabinets.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

  1. Kitchen Size

    • In small kitchens, open shelving can create the illusion of more space.

    • Larger kitchens may benefit from the storage capacity of upper cabinets.

  2. Lifestyle

    • If you love displaying your dishware and don’t mind regular cleaning, open shelving could be for you.

    • For those who prioritize functionality and prefer to keep items hidden, upper cabinets are likely the better choice.

  3. Budget

    • Open shelving is generally more budget-friendly, while cabinets are a more significant investment.

  4. Design Style

    • Modern, farmhouse, or eclectic kitchens often pair well with open shelving.

    • Traditional or transitional styles lean more toward upper cabinets.

The Best of Both Worlds

Can’t decide between the two? Why not combine them? Many homeowners are opting for a hybrid approach, incorporating open shelving for decorative items and upper cabinets for functional storage. For example:

  • Use open shelves above your sink or stove for frequently used items like plates or spices.

  • Install upper cabinets on other walls to store bulkier or less attractive items.

This approach gives you the best of both worlds—a stylish, modern look with ample storage options.

Ultimately, the choice between open shelving and upper cabinets comes down to your priorities. Consider your storage needs, cleaning habits, and design preferences before making a decision. Whether you go with open shelves, upper cabinets, or a mix of both, the key is creating a kitchen that’s both functional and beautiful.

Are you team open shelving or team upper cabinets? For more tips on kitchen design and DIY projects, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter and check out my YouTube channel for step-by-step tutorials.

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