Kitchen Shelves Instead Of Cupboards: My Personal Experience

When I renovated my kitchen a few years ago, I had a big decision to make: whether to install cupboards or shelves. I knew that both options had their pros and cons, but ultimately I decided to go with shelves. It was a decision that I have never regretted, and I wanted to share my experience to help others who might be considering the same choice.

Why Choose Kitchen Shelves Instead Of Cupboards?

There are a number of reasons why someone might choose kitchen shelves instead of cupboards. Here are a few of the main ones:

1. They Are More Open

Shelves provide an open and airy feeling in a kitchen, which can be especially nice in smaller spaces. They also allow you to display your dishes and cookware, which can be a fun way to add personality to your kitchen.

2. They Are More Affordable

Shelves are typically less expensive than cupboards, which can be a big factor if you are renovating on a budget. They are also easier to install, which can save you money on labor costs.

3. They Are Easier To Access

With shelves, everything is out in the open, which makes it easier to find what you need. You don’t have to worry about digging around in the back of a cupboard to find a pot or a pan.

Step-By-Step Guide For Installing Kitchen Shelves

If you decide to go with kitchen shelves, here is a step-by-step guide for how to install them:

1. Measure Your Space

Measure the space where you want to install your shelves, and decide how many shelves you want to have. Make sure to leave enough room between shelves for your dishes and cookware.

2. Choose Your Materials

You can use a variety of materials for your shelves, including wood, metal, or glass. Choose a material that matches the style of your kitchen and is sturdy enough to hold your dishes.

3. Install Your Brackets

Install brackets on the wall where you want your shelves to go. Make sure to use a level to ensure that your shelves will be even.

4. Add Your Shelves

Once your brackets are installed, it’s time to add your shelves. Simply place them on top of the brackets, making sure that they are level and secure.

Top 10 Tips And Ideas For Kitchen Shelves

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your kitchen shelves, here are 10 tips and ideas to get you started:

Use open shelving to display your favorite dishes and cookware.
Add plants or herbs to your shelves to bring some greenery into your kitchen.
Use baskets or bins to corral smaller items like utensils or spices.
Mix and match different materials for an eclectic look.
Install lighting under your shelves to highlight your dishes and create ambiance.
Use shelves to create a coffee bar or tea station in your kitchen.
Paint your shelves a fun color to add some personality to your kitchen.
Install shelves above your sink or stove for easy access to dishes and cookware.
Use shelves as a way to organize your pantry items.
Install floating shelves for a minimalist look.

Pros And Cons Of Kitchen Shelves

Like any design choice, there are pros and cons to choosing kitchen shelves over cupboards. Here are a few to consider:

Pros:

Open and airy feeling
Easier to access dishes and cookware
More affordable than cupboards
Easier to install

Cons:

Can get dusty and require more cleaning
Can be less secure than cupboards
May not be the best choice if you have a lot of small or cluttered items

My Personal Review And Suggestion

As I mentioned earlier, I have been very happy with my decision to install kitchen shelves instead of cupboards. I love the open and airy feeling that they provide, and it’s been fun to display my favorite dishes and cookware. I will say that they do require a bit more cleaning than cupboards, but for me, it’s been worth it. If you’re considering kitchen shelves, my suggestion would be to think about your personal style and how you use your kitchen. If you love to entertain and want to show off your dishes, then shelves might be a great choice for you. If you have a lot of small or cluttered items, then cupboards might be a better option.

FAQs

1. Are kitchen shelves more expensive than cupboards?

No, kitchen shelves are typically less expensive than cupboards.

2. Are kitchen shelves harder to install than cupboards?

No, kitchen shelves are usually easier to install than cupboards.

3. Are kitchen shelves less secure than cupboards?

It depends on the type of shelves you install. If you use sturdy brackets and install your shelves properly, they can be just as secure as cupboards.

4. Do kitchen shelves require more cleaning than cupboards?

Yes, kitchen shelves can get dusty and require more cleaning than cupboards.