Truth be told, kitchen storage can spark some serious debate. Some people argue over politics. Others argue over whether open shelves or closed cabinets are the true MVPs of the kitchen. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering if you are team “tidy behind closed doors” or team “show it all off,” you’re not alone. Kitchens with open shelves vs. closed cabinets is one of the hottest discussions in the remodeling world, and, no, we’re not just talking about shelf help groups.
At Karin Ross Designs, our team of kitchen remodelers in Kansas City hears this question all the time: Should I go with open shelving or stick to classic cabinets? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a stylish solution for every home. Let’s break it all down.
Pros & Cons of Open Shelving
There’s a reason open kitchen shelving is plastered all over Pinterest and Instagram. It looks clean, modern, and it’s a great way to showcase your best dinnerware or a cute plant collection. With the right styling, open shelving units can completely elevate a kitchen’s vibe.
Pros:
- Visual Openness – Open shelving makes a kitchen feel airier, especially in smaller spaces. It’s perfect for creating that modern open shelving kitchen look that everyone’s pinning these days.
- Accessibility – No more digging behind jars and Tupperware. Everything is right in front of you and within reach.
- Decorative Flexibility – Whether it’s vintage mugs or artisan pottery, open shelving in kitchen layouts allows you to display your personality.
Cons:
- Dust and Grease – Let’s face it. Everything that’s exposed is going to collect dust, and yes, that includes cooking grease if you’re not careful.
- Clutter Risk – If you’re not naturally tidy or into color coordination, open shelving can quickly look chaotic.
- Limited Storage – You’re not going to hide your mismatched plastic containers here. You’ll need a balance with closed storage elsewhere.
Pros & Cons of Closed Cabinets
Closed cabinets have stood the test of time, and for good reason. They’re the safe choice when it comes to storing everything from cereal boxes to your chaotic collection of coffee mugs you never use.
Pros:
- Hidden Storage – Shove it, close it, forget it. No judgment. This is the magic of cabinet doors.
- Streamlined Appearance – Closed cabinets provide a cohesive, uncluttered look, perfect for traditional and transitional kitchen styles.
- More Storage Flexibility – You don’t need to worry about displaying only your prettiest plates.
Cons:
- Heavier Visual Weight – In smaller kitchens, large rows of cabinets can make the space feel cramped.
- Harder Access – You’ll be opening and closing doors constantly, which can be a bit inconvenient mid-meal prep.
- Less Personality – While stylish, closed cabinets don’t let your aesthetic shine through quite the same way as open shelves.
Are Open Kitchen Shelves a Good Idea?
Like most things in design, it depends. Kitchens with open shelves vs. closed cabinets really come down to your lifestyle. Are you a minimalist who thrives on order? Open shelving could be your dream come true. Do you prefer practicality and hiding clutter? Closed cabinets will keep you sane.
Some homeowners find a hybrid kitchen to be the perfect solution: open cabinet shelving on top for style, closed cabinets or drawers below for utility. It offers balance, plus it’s a great way to incorporate open shelving kitchen ideas without fully committing to the upkeep.
How to Style Open Kitchen Shelves
Styling is where the magic happens. Start by picking a color palette, such as neutrals with pops of green, which work beautifully. Vary the height and texture of your objects, and group things in odd numbers for visual balance. Incorporate functional items (like bowls or coffee mugs) alongside decorative touches (like framed photos or vintage finds).
Consider layering with cutting boards against the wall and using risers to add dimension. Just don’t overcrowd. Leave a little breathing room for that curated, intentional feel that modern open shelving kitchen dreams are made of.
What to Put on Open Shelves in a Kitchen
The basics:
- Everyday dishes (plates, bowls, mugs)
- Glassware
- Cookbooks
- Ceramic or wood mixing bowls
- Decorative jars or containers for dry goods
- Small plants or herbs
- Art or framed recipe cards
In short, display what you use and love. Just remember: everything you place on open shelving units becomes part of your kitchen’s visual story.
How to Add Cabinet Doors to Open Shelves
Let’s say you tried open shelves and have regrets. Don’t worry, it’s not a tattoo. You can add cabinet doors later if you want to close things up. This is especially helpful if your lifestyle has changed or you just want to simplify cleaning.
There are multiple ways to do it:
- Retrofit with custom doors: Hire a kitchen remodeling company in Kansas City to design doors that match your existing cabinetry.
- DIY magnetic or hinged doors: If you’re handy, you can find kits or make your own using lightweight wood or acrylic.
- Use curtains: For a cottage-core twist, add a rod and hang linen panels. It’s charming and reversible.
Adding doors can also increase resale value if buyers in your market prefer traditional cabinets.
Kitchens With Open Shelves vs. Closed Cabinets: Which Fits Your Style?
When weighing kitchens with open shelves vs. closed cabinets, think about your cooking habits, family size, and how much maintenance you’re willing to put in. Do you love styling and updating your space seasonally? Open shelves are a fun playground. Prefer to keep things simple and low-effort? Closed cabinets are your best bet.
Also, consider the kitchen countertops and appliances on your kitchen island. What’s happening on top should complement what’s happening on the walls. A clutter-free counter pairs beautifully with open shelves, while a busy island might benefit from the calm of closed storage.
Why Mixed Storage May Be the Best Option
You don’t have to pick one side in the open shelves vs. closed debate. Mixed storage, typically referring to open shelving above and closed cabinets below, is becoming more and more popular in contemporary design. It lets you display your personality while keeping the necessary mess under wraps.
This intermingling of styles also gives you a chance to play with contrasts. You can have wood shelves on white walls, black cabinets with brass pulls, or glass doors that offer a peek without full exposure. Balance is key in today’s modern kitchen remodeling trends.
Open Shelving Works Great in Other Rooms, Too
While we’re big fans of kitchen open shelving, don’t overlook its potential in other areas of your home. Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and even mudrooms can benefit from the accessibility and charm of open shelving units.
In fact, if you’re already diving into a full renovation, ask your contractor about using open shelving in bathrooms for storing towels, soaps, or décor. It’s a subtle but impactful way to tie rooms together.
Final Thoughts From a Kitchen Remodeling Company in Kansas City
At the end of the day, the real winner in the debate over kitchens with open shelves vs. closed cabinets is you, because you’re designing a space that fits your life, your habits, and your style.
Whether you’re all-in on open kitchen shelving or firmly set on team cabinet, working with the right design team makes all the difference. At Karin Ross Designs, our experts will guide you through material choices, layout options, and style decisions so you end up with a space that’s both beautiful and functional.
Contact Karin Ross Designs today to schedule your consultation and explore more inspiration on our kitchen and bath remodeling blog. Let’s build the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of, one shelf at a time.
