OPEN or CLOSED?

Should you put open shelves in your kitchen? Here are some of the biggest advantages and disadvantages to consider as you decide which design is right for you.

OPEN SHELVING

PROS

• CREATES MORE SPACE. Have a smaller kitchen? Open shelving adds a bright and airy feel and is an inexpensive way to create an illusion of more space.

• SHOWS OFF PRETTY DISHES. Do you have a favorite set of dishes you want to display? Open shelving makes statement dishware a focal point in your kitchen.

CONS • CLEANING AND ORGANIZATION. Open shelving can be more difficult to maintain. If keeping your shelves clean and organized would be a challenge for you, opt for closed cabinetry.

• SHOWS OFF YOUR DISHES. This is a pro if you have pretty dishes, but many of us use dishware that’s kidfriendly or lacks a certain—ahem—class. Open shelving doesn’t allow the option of hiding dishware.

CLOSED CABINETS

PROS

• HIDES MISMATCHED DISHES. Closed cabinets are perfect for everyday plates that might detract from your otherwise curated kitchen design.

• MORE STORAGE. Closed cabinetry provides more storage space than open shelving. Large family? Dishware collector? Closed cabinets might be the way to go.

CONS

• COST. As much as we’d all like unlimited budgets, the reality is that closed cabinets can be substantially more expensive than open shelves. If you’re starting from scratch or have to replace old cabinets, open shelves will be the cheaper option.

• CLOSED OFF LOOK. Closed cabinets take up a lot of space and create a smaller feel in the room. If you have a small kitchen, open shelving could be a better option.

Askel nutmeg rustic floating shelf, starting at $105. (949) 244-1083 or shelfology.com.

Rustic floating shelf with custom finish and dimensions, starting at $30. Visit etsy.com/shop/dunnrusticdesigns.

Evonne solid wood floating shelf, set of 2, $56.93. Visit wayfair.com.

Restorers architectural 10 ½” Boston traditional scroll corbel, $58.16. (800) 237-8833 or vandykes.com.