How to Style Your Floating Shelves

Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

Floating shelves are becoming a staple in today's modern kitchen designs. Thanks to interior designers like Joanna Gaines, open shelves are now one of our most talked-about topics when sitting down with new clients. We also get the question of how these shelves can ever be functional and pretty at the same time.

The truth is, most people are hesitant to put their dishware or pots and pans out on display. Most don't think their selection of cookware will fit with the aesthetic of their new kitchen design. But, as a trusted interior designer, Jordan Morrissey Interior Design is here to tell you that if you like the idea of floating shelving, then let's go for it! Because in reality, there are plenty of ways we can style these shelves, so they serve a dual purpose of function and style.

Bridge the Gap

In some cases, the layout of a current kitchen houses some pretty interesting angles and lengths. This often leaves homeowners with an odd number of cabinets or even a small sliver cabinet they don't know what to do with. We can easily incorporate floating shelves in our interior design remodels to help fill in these awkward gaps. Additionally, opting for open shelving is a great way to open up your kitchen design while saving money on cabinets. We can then style these shelves with any of your glass drinkware or even use them to house all of your cooking spices and oils – You know, the things that would have gone into that awkward cabinet space.

Add Sophistication to Your Wet Bar

Floating shelves are PERFECT for any wet bar space in your home or kitchen. These shelves serve as the ideal place to store and display your wide selection of liquor and all of your stemware. This not only frees up other cabinet storage in your kitchen or pantry, but it also keeps these items up and away from small kids. You won't have to worry about tucking your Glencairns or high stem bowls into the far reaches of a kitchen cabinet. Because with floating shelves, they can all be right there on display and ready for use!

Display the Greens

Do you love the idea of growing your own herb garden but hate the idea of letting these plants live on the counter space? Then here is where open shelving can come in handy! Not only do you add a lovely touch of green nature to your kitchen, but you also have a designated space for these potted plants to grow. They're up off the counter and are still within reach. You'll just want to make sure these plants have enough sunlight from where they'll sit, or you can take them down from time to time and let them soak up the sun. Furthermore, even if you lack a green thumb, putting faux potted plants on display in your open shelving is still a great way to add greenery and comfort to your new kitchen.

Photo by Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd. on Unsplash

Flank the Range

Storage around the stove oven range is critical in any home. However, most people don't consider open shelving around this area of the kitchen. But, we're here to tell you that flanking your range with floating shelves is a great alternative to heavy, bulky cabinets. This is especially true for small kitchens and homeowners who want to open their space but don't want to lose functionality. With open shelving around the stove area, you can easily stack your most-used utensils and cookware. Additionally, it's a great place for bowls and baking essentials you use often. Finally, you can dedicate one floating shelf to displaying your cookbooks, making them accessible for you and fun for your guests to look at. 

Mix It Up

Airy and whimsical is often a request we get when working with homeowners on a new kitchen design. In these scenarios, floating shelving is the way to go! We can even design the shelving at varying lengths. This interior styling approach gives your new kitchen all the function of floating shelves while adding in a pleasing art element that you and your guests will love. You can style these shelves with some of your grandma's fine China or even your collection of cookbooks, spices, and florals. 

Styling Your Kitchen 

At the end of the day, the style of your kitchen should be a reflection of you and your household. At Jordan Morrissey Interior Design, we work hard to make sure you love your new kitchen, guiding you through the entire remodeling process. So, if you're not sure how to style your floating shelves or are questioning whether or not these are right for your home, get in touch with us today! We'd love to help you create a unique space that feels like home.