Top 71+ Beautiful Open Shelving Shelves Above Kitchen Sink You Won't Be Disappointed

Open shelving has become a popular trend in kitchen design, and for good reason. Not only does it add a touch of modernity and charm, but it also provides functional storage space for your kitchen essentials. If you're looking to incorporate open shelving into your kitchen, here are 10 ideas to inspire you.

1. Floating Shelves: One of the most popular options for open shelving in the kitchen is floating shelves. These sleek and minimalistic shelves give your kitchen a clean and modern look. Plus, they are easy to install and can be customized to fit your space perfectly.

2. Rustic Wooden Shelves: For a more rustic and warm feel, consider installing wooden shelves. These can be made from reclaimed wood for an eco-friendly touch, and they add a cozy and homey feel to your kitchen.

3. Glass Shelves: If you want to add a touch of elegance to your kitchen, consider using glass shelves. These will make your kitchen appear more spacious while still providing functional storage space for your dishes and cookware.

4. Metal Shelving: For a more industrial and modern look, opt for metal shelves. These are durable and can hold heavy items, making them perfect for storing your pots and pans.

5. Corner Shelves: Utilize every inch of space in your kitchen by installing corner shelves. These are perfect for storing small appliances or displaying decorative items.

6. Open Shelving Island: Instead of traditional cabinets on your kitchen island, consider adding open shelving. This will provide a unique and functional storage space for your cookbooks, dishes, and more.

7. Combination of Closed and Open Shelving: Who says you have to choose between open and closed cabinets? You can have the best of both worlds by incorporating a combination of the two. Use closed cabinets for items you don't want on display and open shelving for your more decorative pieces.

8. Colorful Shelves: If you want to add a pop of color to your kitchen, consider painting your shelves. This is an easy and budget-friendly way to add some personality to your space.

9. Ladder Shelves: Ladder shelves are not only functional but also add a unique touch to your kitchen. These are perfect for storing items that are used less frequently, such as seasonal dishes or kitchen gadgets.

10. Minimalistic Shelves: For a sleek and modern look, opt for minimalistic shelves. These will give your kitchen a clean and uncluttered appearance while still providing functional storage space.

Now that you have some open shelving ideas, you may be wondering how to style them. Here are a few tips to help you create a visually appealing and functional display on your open shelves.

1. Start with a Clean Slate: Before you start styling your shelves, make sure they are clean and clutter-free. This will help you see the space more clearly and make it easier to organize your items.

2. Mix and Match: Don't be afraid to mix and match different items on your shelves. Use a combination of functional items, such as dishes and glasses, with decorative pieces like vases or plants.

3. Vary Heights: To create visual interest, vary the heights of your items. This will add dimension and make your display more visually appealing.

4. Use Color: Incorporate pops of color into your display to add some personality and make your shelves stand out. This can be done through colorful dishes, decorative items, or even a colorful backsplash behind your shelves.

5. Add Texture: Don't be afraid to mix different textures on your shelves. This can be achieved through items like woven baskets, wooden cutting boards, or ceramic dishes.

6. Keep it Functional: While it's important to make your shelves look nice, don't forget about functionality. Make sure the items you use most frequently are easily accessible and organized on your shelves.

Now that you know how to style your open shelves, you may still be wondering if they are the right choice for your kitchen. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding between open shelving and closed cabinets.

Pros of Open Shelving:

- Adds Visual Interest: Open shelving adds a unique and visually interesting element to your kitchen design.

- Makes Space Appear Larger: Open shelves can make your kitchen look more spacious and open, especially when used in a small kitchen.

- Allows for Easy Access: With open shelves, your items are easily accessible and in plain sight, making it easy to find what you need.

Cons of Open Shelving:

- Requires Frequent Cleaning: Since your items are on display, open shelves require more frequent dusting and cleaning than closed cabinets.

- Can Look Cluttered: If not styled properly, open shelves can look cluttered and messy.

- Not Ideal for All Items: Some items, such as spices or small items, are better stored in closed cabinets to keep them organized and easily accessible.

Ready to install some open shelving in your kitchen? You can save money by making your own DIY shelves. Here's how:

Step 1: Measure and Plan: Measure the space where you want to install your shelves and decide on the size and number of shelves you want.

Step 2: Gather Materials: You will need wood for the shelves, brackets, a level, screws, and a drill.

Step 3: Cut the Wood: Cut the wood to the desired length for your shelves.

Step 4: Sand and Stain: Sand the wood to smooth out any rough edges and then stain or paint it to your desired color.

Step 5: Install Brackets: Use a level to mark where you want to install the brackets, and then drill them into the wall.

Step 6: Attach Shelves: Place the shelves on top of the brackets and secure them with screws.

Step 7: Style and Enjoy: Now you can style your shelves and enjoy your new DIY open shelving in your kitchen.

Aside from the aesthetic appeal, there are many other benefits of incorporating open shelving into your kitchen design.

- Better Air Circulation: Closed cabinets can trap moisture and lead to mold growth, but open shelves allow for better air circulation.

- Easy to Change Up: With open shelves, it's easy to switch up your decor and change the look of your kitchen without having to invest in new cabinets.

- Cost-Effective: Open shelves are typically more affordable than traditional cabinets, making them a budget-friendly option for your kitchen design.

One of the most popular spots for open shelving in the kitchen is above the sink. Here's how to install them in this space:

Step 1: Measure and Plan: Measure the space above your sink and decide on the size and number of shelves you want.

Step 2: Gather Materials: You will need wood for the shelves, brackets, a level, screws, and a drill.

Step 3: Cut the Wood: Cut the wood to the desired length for your shelves.

Step 4: Sand and Stain: Sand the wood to smooth out any rough edges and then stain or paint it to your desired color.

Step 5: Install Brackets: Use a level to mark where you want to install the brackets, and then drill them into the wall above your sink.

Step 6: Attach Shelves: Place the shelves on top of the brackets and secure them with screws.

Step 7: Style and Enjoy: Now you can style your shelves and enjoy your new open shelving above your kitchen sink.

Open shelving doesn't have to be limited to just storing dishes and cookware. Here are some creative ways to use open shelves in your kitchen:

- Display Your Cookbooks: If you have a collection of cookbooks, why not display them on your open shelves? This adds a personal touch to your kitchen and makes your cookbooks easily accessible for when you need them.

- Show Off Your Plants: Add some greenery to your kitchen by displaying your plants on open shelves. This adds a touch of nature and can even improve air quality in your kitchen.

- Store Your Coffee Mugs: If you're a coffee lover, open shelves are the perfect spot to display your favorite mugs. This not only adds a personal touch to your kitchen but also frees up cabinet space for other items.

- Use as a Bar Cart: If you have a small kitchen, open shelves can serve as a makeshift bar cart. Display your glasses and liquor bottles on the shelves for easy access when entertaining.

Open shelving can be a great option for small kitchens, but it's important to use them strategically to avoid a cluttered and chaotic look. Here are some tips and tricks for using open shelves in a small kitchen:

- Use Light Colors: Light-colored shelves will make your kitchen appear larger and more spacious.

- Keep it Minimal: Don't overcrowd your shelves with too many items. Keep it minimal and only display what you need and use regularly.

- Incorporate Baskets and Bins: Use baskets or bins on your shelves to store smaller items and keep them organized.

- Utilize Wall Space: If you have limited counter and cabinet space, consider installing shelves on an empty wall for additional storage space.

If you have open shelves above your kitchen sink, you may be wondering how to style them. Here are a few tips to get you started:

- Mix and Match Dishes: Use a combination of dishes, glasses, and mugs to add some variety to your display.

- Add a Touch of Greenery: Display a small potted plant or a vase with fresh flowers to add a pop of color and life to your shelves.

- Include Decorative Items: Don't be afraid to add some decorative pieces to your shelves, such as a small piece of artwork or a decorative bowl.

- Keep it Practical: Remember to keep the items you use most frequently within easy reach on your shelves.