Last updated on November 14th, 2024
Open shelves have become the darling of modern home design, offering a mix of style and practicality. They’re a great way to showcase curated collections, give the illusion of more space, and add a personal touch to your kitchen, living room, or even bathroom. However, not everything is suited for these trendy display spots.
Some items can quickly turn open shelving from a minimalist dream into a cluttered nightmare. Curious about what you should keep behind closed doors? Let’s dive into the eight items you shouldn’t store on open shelves.
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1. Bulky Appliances: Let’s Keep It Chic
Sure, your blender or coffee maker is a kitchen essential, but does it really belong on display? Appliances are often heavy, bulky, and far from aesthetically pleasing when sitting on an open shelf. Even if you’re tempted to keep them handy, they’ll likely gather dust and require regular cleaning. Keep them tucked away in cabinets or appliance garages to maintain the sleek, clean look of your kitchen.
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2. Clear Glassware: The Dust Magnets
Clear glassware can seem like a good idea on open shelves—until you have to wipe down each glass before every use. These pieces quickly attract dust, making them less functional and more of a hassle. If you still want to show off your favorite glasses, reserve this space for occasional-use items and store everyday glasses behind closed doors.
3. Personal Photos: Save the Gallery for the Walls
Open shelving isn’t the place for your family photo collection. While personal touches are important, too many framed photos can overwhelm the space and make it feel cluttered. Instead, display these cherished memories on walls or in a dedicated gallery corner. Open shelves are best for more curated, decorative items.
4. Houseplants: High Maintenance Up High
While plants can breathe life into a space, putting them on open shelves—especially those out of reach—can make regular care difficult. Let’s be real: dragging out a step ladder to water plants is probably the last thing you want to do mid-week. Stick to more accessible spots for your greenery, like countertops or lower shelves.
5. Random Clutter: Out of Sight, Out of Mind
We all have everyday items like keys, sunglasses, and mail that seem to magically appear in random spots. But your open shelves should not be their new home. Open shelving thrives on visual organization, so avoid tossing catch-all bowls or unsightly clutter here. Instead, assign these items a dedicated drawer or cabinet.
6. Books With Dust Jackets: The Quickest Way to Visual Chaos
Books on shelves can add a cozy, lived-in feel, but there’s a catch—those dust jackets. Many designers recommend stripping books of their covers to avoid a chaotic, mismatched look. This instantly elevates the aesthetic while keeping the focus on texture and color coordination.
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7. Packaged Pantry Items: Bye-Bye, Boxed Cereal
If you’re using open shelves in the kitchen, packaged food items like cereal boxes or plastic-wrapped snacks should be a no-go. To keep the space functional yet stylish, transfer items like grains, coffee, and pasta into glass or ceramic containers. Not only will this look better, but it’ll also keep your shelves organized and Instagram-worthy.
8. Solely Decorative Items: It’s All About Balance
Open shelves are great for displaying pretty vases and art, but it’s important to balance form with function. Don’t let your shelves turn into a museum of purely decorative pieces. Incorporate a mix of functional items like plates, bowls, or mugs with a few accent pieces. This blend of style and usability will ensure that your shelves don’t just look good—they work for you too.
Our Take: Less Is More (With the Right Touch)
Open shelving is more than just a design trend—it’s a fantastic way to display the things you love. But be mindful about what you place there. Stick to items that are both practical and beautiful, and keep the everyday clutter behind closed doors. When styled thoughtfully, open shelves can add charm and character to any room, without the mess.
Ready to create a beautifully curated space? Head over to the Homebliss blog for more tips on home organization and decor!
