Open storage in the kitchen may not appeal to everyone, as many prefer to keep items tucked away behind closed doors for a tidier look.
People typically opt for closed storage for two main reasons:
- To conceal items, and
- To keep them as clean as possible.
Displaying pots, pans, or spices, for instance, means they’ll collect dust, requiring regular cleaning before use—a chore that discourages many. However, open storage offers distinct advantages:
- Visibility, provided the items are visually appealing.
- Easy access, such as grabbing spices from an open rack without rummaging through cupboards or reaching for utensils near the stove.
- Reduced need for cupboard space, ideal if storage is limited.
Kitchen items typically hidden in cupboards or drawers can be displayed creatively, often as collections. For example, herbs and spices can be decanted into attractive jars or glass bottles, or kept in their original containers, and arranged neatly on a narrow shelf or spice rack. This creates an instant display that doubles as storage. Spices in packets should be transferred to airtight containers to maximize shelf life. Similarly, homemade jams, pickles, dried pulses (like lentils, peas, or beans), or colorful dried pasta can be grouped for both utility and aesthetics.
Tea, coffee, sugar, and other beverage essentials can be stored in decorative tins or bottles on a shelf or countertop near the kettle for convenience.
Creative Display Ideas for a Functional Kitchen
Collections can be both decorative and practical. Think beyond everyday tools like tin openers, graters, or peelers to include vintage knickknacks. These can be hung on racks or large brass hooks screwed into the wall, transforming pots and pans into a striking backdrop, rivaling artwork.
Pots and pans can hang above a stove on a metal rack, which you can craft with basic welding skills and equipment. Suspend the rack from the ceiling with chains and use butcher hooks for hanging, or fix a wooden beam near the cooker and screw in hooks. Copper or stainless steel pots look particularly stunning displayed this way.
Utensils like mashers, serving spoons, spatulas, or wooden mixing spoons can be stored in a large stoneware pot. Knives, often sold with their own stands to prevent dulling, can also be decorative if you’re comfortable displaying them openly.
Wicker baskets on shelves are perfect for storing fruit, vegetables, gadgets, or utensils. Custom-fit baskets can replace drawers, adding charm and character to the kitchen.
Collectible items, like vintage tins, are ideal for open storage. Use them for ingredients in plain packets or boxes, keeping the original packaging inside for hygiene unless the tins are cleaned and sealed.
While less common, plates can be stored openly on a wooden plate rack above the sink, which is more attractive than plastic or wire drainers. Newly washed plates can stay in the rack until needed, blending function with style.
Coffee mugs can be displayed on mug holders or racks, such as hooks set into a polished slab of exotic wood for a rustic or cottage look. Ensure mugs are attractive and free of chips or cracks to maintain the aesthetic.
Wine and glasses can be displayed, though glasses may need rinsing before use. Keep wine racks away from the cooking area to maintain a consistent temperature, as fluctuating heat can affect wine quality.
For budget-conscious kitchen design, freestanding furniture can replace built-in cabinets. A bookcase can hold recipe books, beverage tins, or decorative items like cast iron scales, ginger jars, or herb pots. Old wooden dressers with shelves or glass-fronted sections are perfect for showcasing plates, jars, and other items that deserve to be seen.
Consider embracing open storage to create a functional, visually appealing kitchen that reflects your style.
