Why Some Homeowners Are Swapping Floating Shelves For Cabinets

Last updated on March 3rd, 2025

Floating shelves have been a major trend in home design for the past few years, especially in kitchens. From Instagram-worthy dish displays to creating an open, airy feel, these shelves became a go-to for homeowners looking for a sleek, modern aesthetic. But now, many are rethinking the trend, opting instead for the tried-and-true practicality of closed cabinets. Why the shift?

Well, while floating shelves look great, they may not always deliver on the storage and functionality front. Let’s take a closer look at why some homeowners are ditching floating shelves and going back to cabinets—and why you might want to consider it too!

1. More Function, Less Fuss

One of the biggest reasons homeowners are swapping out their floating shelves for cabinets is simple: functionality. While floating shelves look minimalist and stylish, they often fall short when it comes to practical storage. Sure, they’re great for displaying pretty plates and mugs, but what about all the everyday items that aren’t quite as Instagram-ready?

Closed cabinets, on the other hand, allow you to store everything—from quirky mugs to mismatched Tupperware—without worrying about how it all looks. With cabinets, you get the freedom to prioritize functionality over aesthetics, something many homeowners realize is crucial in a busy kitchen.

2. Shelves That Look Good… But Only on the Surface

There’s no denying that floating shelves can make a kitchen look beautiful. With the right arrangement, they give your space an open feel and make grabbing dishes or ingredients a breeze. However, this aesthetic appeal comes with a catch. Floating shelves put everything on display—meaning you need to carefully curate what you place on them.

For homeowners who value both style and convenience, floating shelves can become a struggle. Everything from chipped mugs to mismatched storage containers can throw off the entire look. With closed cabinetry, you don’t have to worry about every single item fitting into a “design scheme.” You can stash the clutter behind doors and still maintain a clean, sleek kitchen.

3. Combining Open and Closed Storage for Balance

While some homeowners are fully replacing floating shelves with cabinets, others are finding balance by incorporating both open and closed storage. Mixing open shelving with traditional cabinetry can help break up the monotony of a fully closed-off kitchen while still providing practical storage solutions.

For instance, floating shelves can be used to display select decorative items, cookbooks, or pretty glassware, while closed cabinets hide the everyday chaos. This combination adds visual interest to the space without sacrificing storage capacity.

4. The Hidden Perk of Closed Cabinets: Organizational Bliss

One of the underrated benefits of closed cabinets is the endless organization possibilities. Floating shelves require you to be minimal and visually appealing, whereas closed cabinets offer the luxury of hidden storage. With cabinets, you can invest in storage bins, risers, and baskets without worrying about aesthetics. You can create your own personal organizational haven behind closed doors.

For those who love to keep things organized but aren’t keen on showing it off, cabinets are a dream come true. You can color-code, categorize, and store with ease, all while keeping the clutter out of sight.

5. Space Constraints? Floating Shelves May Work in a Pinch

In smaller kitchens, homeowners often turn to floating shelves to make the most of limited space. Floating shelves can be more suitable in tight spots where there isn’t room for full-depth cabinets, giving you a way to add storage without overwhelming the area. They can also add charm, giving a smaller kitchen a cozy, cottage-like vibe.

However, if space isn’t an issue, closed cabinets can make a kitchen feel more streamlined and less visually cluttered, especially in a larger or more open floor plan.

6. Maintenance Matters: Floating Shelves Aren’t for the Messy

Here’s the reality about floating shelves—while they may look picture-perfect in design magazines, they require a level of upkeep that not everyone is up for. Since everything is out in the open, floating shelves need to be kept neat and tidy at all times. Plus, they collect dust more easily than closed cabinets, meaning you’ll have to clean both the shelves and the items on them regularly.

If the idea of constantly dusting or rearranging your shelves doesn’t appeal to you, cabinets are a low-maintenance alternative. You can tuck everything away and enjoy a clutter-free look without the hassle of constant upkeep.

Our Take: Finding What Works for Your Space

Ultimately, whether you opt for floating shelves or return to closed cabinets depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you love the open, airy look and don’t mind the upkeep, floating shelves can add a decorative touch to your kitchen. But if you prioritize storage, organization, and low maintenance, cabinets might be the better option.

Considering a kitchen revamp? Find more inspiration and design tips by exploring other blog posts on Homebliss, where we help you make your home as functional as it is beautiful.