Open shelving is becoming increasingly popular in kitchens and this one’s a beauty. Now, as a long time fan (and owner) of the open shelf, I would say that wouldn’t I, but in my perambulations around the world of interiors and conversations with both friends and clients, I notice that more and more people are choosing to do away with the upper row of kitchen cabinets. To which I say Hurray.
The first thing about having a row of cupboards is that they tend to end at head height so you have to lean slightly back or away from what you are doing to avoid banging your head. Secondly, they cast a shadow over the worktop and thirdly, you end up using that space at the back to tuck things away like the toaster, the kettle the (god forbid please throw it out) mug tree, which means that instead of having a worktop of 60cm depth (standard) you reduce it to around 30 in one fell swoop.
Which is why you are probably complaining that you don’t have enough workspace in your kitchen. To which I say – open shelving. And suddenly you have more space – especially if you’ve thrown the mug tree away. Put the mugs on a shelf. Or fix a row of hooks underneath.
Now, the other issue which frequently crops up in comments to the blog and in conversation, is that people seem to be terribly worried about dust and dirt. So, firstly, the things I put on my shelves are things I use all the time so they don’t have time to get dusty before I use them and wash them up again. Secondly, my shelves aren’t near the hob so I suppose there isn’t hot fat jumping up and down which does make life easier.
Someone once asked me how often I clear the shelves and wipe them down. Erm? Honestly? I’m not sure if I dare tell the truth about that. So, in a typically roundabout way, open shelves. Here are some (designed by Sue Pryke, for one of my favourite stores Such and Such ) and this rambling spraff is why you should have some.
These are particularly gorgeous and give a sophisticated nod to the industrial trend. Perfect in a kitchen, good in a bathroom.
Cool!
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Oh my gawwwwwd – this is a thing of beauty! I am most overcome. Would be perfect in the new kitchen – thank you Kate!
P.S. A mug tree? Noooooo
Also stops having to clean the tops of wall mounted cupboards which is a horrible job!
Love the simplicity of these and particularly the gap between the shelf and the top edge of concrete
Yes! Plus it saves you opening a cupboard door everytime you need a mug or a bowl or a plate