It’s easy to rave about things around your house when they’re brand new and don’t have the wear and tear of everyday use. I’ve had several people ask me if I’m still happy with our open shelving three years after our kitchen renovation so here’s the quick update. . .
I knew going into our remodel that I loved the look of open shelving and less heavy cabinetry; I just didn’t know how it would translate to everyday use for our family. Fortunately, it’s worked out great for us and I don’t have any regrets about foregoing more closed cabinets.
One reason it works well is that they’re directly behind each of the dishwashers (yes, two). I keep (most of) the dishes we use on a daily basis on these shelves–cereal bowls, white plates, smaller blue and white plates, glasses, coffee mugs, etc. I do think this whole look works best if you keep the dishes simple and limited to one or two colors. I also don’t mind if pieces are not-so-perfectly stacked. (Our not-so-pretty plastic bowls and cups are stored in the deeper bottom drawers.)
I know some were concerned about the dust that would accumulate when we first had them installed. I’ll just say there’s no more dust here than anywhere else in my house (take that for what you will. . . ) and that I’ve never been one to make a decision based on dust potential. Again, because everything is used almost daily (especially on the bottom shelves), it rarely has time to get very dusty.
I’m also happy to report that they’ve stayed up well (thanks to the metal rods that our contractor mounted through them) despite the adjacent door closing/slamming shut 197+ times each day.
Anything else you’d like an update in a future post?
What I envision: A pretty fabric on a window shade or curtains, pulling from the grays for the paint and upholstery. (Red or yellow walls will fight against the oak tones.) I’d go with a creamy or soft white on the walls and use a rich graphite color on an island or accent piece like a hutch. Matte black drawer pulls and a stunning pendant (or two) instantly update the overall look. I’d finish up with a deep red Persian style runner for a punch of color on the floor.
What I envision: A fun, more modern take on oak cabinets, starting with an abstract pattern on the window treatment fabric. I’d pair this with bright white streamlined pendants and white on the walls. A true navy would be a strong accent on an island, china cabinet, etc. I’d use matte black on the hardware (and on a modern faucet!). To play off the white walls, I’d use a colorful runner and a set of green bar stools with sleek lines.
