Life on a ledge
A move to include open shelves in the kitchen allows a home’s inhabitants to curate a picture-perfect reflection of their interests, tastes and talents. Cynics might decry it as a sign of the creeping influence of stylized Instagram feeds on our lives. Others might identify it as a move away from the stark minimalism of slick wall-to-wall joinery. Just as artworks are hung on walls to reflect personal taste, so too these shelves allow owners to curate a changing display of homewares and knick-knacks. Topology
Studio’s Amy Hallett says the open shelves “make the kitchen feel like a family home, not a display home” (page 114), while for Baber Studio and Marc and Co in Attic-Undercroft House (page 126) and for John Ellway in Terrarium House (pictured and page 102), open shelves in the kitchen island add lightness and an opportunity for personal expression.