Picture this: You step into your new apartment to find that you’ve got an open-shelving kitchen. Maybe it’s exciting because you get to embrace that hygge Scandi look you’ve always wanted. Or maybe it’s overwhelming — where will you put your stuff? Either way, these tips will help you tame your open shelves!
Shelf Decor Ideas
When you have open shelving, dark cabinets piled with random junk are no longer an option. Not only are your shelves exposed, but everything you keep on them is out in the open, too! The line between storage and decor has suddenly become blurry. Here are a few tips on what to do with those shelves.
What to Put On Open Kitchen Shelves
Open shelving is trendy in modern kitchens. In many instances, open shelving may replace traditional upper cabinets altogether. While you can put almost anything on your shelves (depending on the width and weight limit of the mounting hardware), much like an open floor plan, it’s important to keep them stacked neatly and not cluttered. Some of the best items to store on your open kitchen shelves include:
- Matching plates and bowls: Stack your plates and bowls on the shelves to showcase nice designs or handmade work. If you’re limited by shelf or kitchen size, keep a few out and store the rest in a cabinet.
- Glassware: Glasses can look nice and stay within easy reach on open shelves. Again, a matching set can look put-together and cohesive. That set of wine glasses can finally stay out in the open for the next time you have guests over!
- Mugs and teacups: Depending on the style of your space, you may want to show off your eclectic mug collection from past trips. You could also display a set of vintage or collectible teacups.
- Cookbooks: Keep your cookbook collection within arm’s reach by storing it on your open shelves. That way, you can reach for the one you need without going to another room.
How to Style Open Shelves: Living Room
Open shelves aren’t just for your kitchen! Sometimes, living rooms may have open shelves or built-in shelving that you can use. But what do you put on open living room shelves?
- Books: Store your favorite novels, or make an artsy display with color-coordinated covers. Thrift stores can be a great place to find discounted books if you’re trying to achieve a monochromatic color palette look on your shelves.
- Plants: Floating shelves or open shelves are a great place to store plants and ensure they get plenty of sunlight. Add some trailing plants, like pothos, for visual interest.
- Bins and organizers: Open shelving can be a great way to store the essentials that you want to keep in reach, but it can look cluttered if you just pile things on it. Try fabric bins that complement your sofa and large furniture or decorative glass containers to maintain a cohesive look.
- Decor: Travel souvenirs, family keepsakes, personal photos, and more finally have a time to shine! Even if you use containers to store your essentials, break those bins up with personal items to help keep your space warm and inviting.
How to Keep Open Shelves Dust-Free
When it comes to open shelving, dust can become your toughest obstacle. Keeping your shelves dust-free can be challenging but not impossible with these ideas:
1. Stick With Frequently Used Items.
Use your open shelving to store items you often use, such as coffee cups and plates. By constantly using and washing the items on the shelves, they won’t collect dust as quickly.
2. Dust and Vacuum Often.
No matter how hard you try…dust is going to happen. It’s an accumulation of dirt, human and pet dander, and other small particles in your home. A quick swipe of a duster will help keep dust to a minimum, as will vacuuming the rest of your home. Don’t forget to start with the top shelves and work your way down!
3. Flip Items Upside Down.
Even if you rotate your cups frequently, they’ll still collect dust. To avoid accumulating dust on the inside, keep concave items like mugs and cups upside down. Stick with storing your wine glasses right-side-up, though, as the delicate rims aren’t designed to support the weight of the glass.
How to Cover Open Shelves
If your open shelves just aren’t working, try covering them. Small curtains purpose-made for attaching to shelves can help mask the clutter inside. Consider using an accent color to help the rest of your decor pop! Peel-and-stick hanging options are ideal for renters.
Curtains not your thing? Try enclosing your items instead: transfer dry foods, like oatmeal and rice, to stylish clear containers for a minimal look that also helps protect the food inside. Alternatively, store items in decorative bins with simple labels for the best of both worlds.
CORT Furniture Rental Fits Any Space and Style
When you’re relocating for work, you don’t always have a choice over where you stay and you have to work with what you’ve got by making the best of the existing design elements. Open shelving is common in modern styles, so your next travel nursing apartment, military housing assignment, off-campus dorm, or corporate housing may have this feature. Love it or hate it, making the most of the existing style can help to personalize your space.
And when it comes to furnishing your space beyond the shelves, you’ve got options there, too. CORT has flexible furniture packages that fit your needs and your space. You can tailor your CORT package from a studio to 4 bedrooms or even an off-campus student apartment to best work with your living situation. Get started at your local CORT showroom or online today.
