Letting It All Hang Out: The Beauty of Open Shelving
Everywhere I look these days – in magazines, on blogs, on TV – design-obsessed people are singing the praises of open shelving. I definitely understand the appeal of open shelves. With the right accessories and design, they combine function and style in the best way. At the same time, open shelves intimidate me. I’m not perfectly neat – who is? – and it seems like a short leap from cool storage to unattractive clutter.
But even if open shelving isn’t a feasible design option for my house, I can always dream of the day when I’m neater. Until then, here are some of my favorite examples of open shelving:
But even if open shelving isn’t a feasible design option for my house, I can always dream of the day when I’m neater. Until then, here are some of my favorite examples of open shelving:
This is a great way to add a little extra storage to any kitchen - it would be simple to add a freestanding shelving unit to an island. Here, I especially like storing red items next to the gray - it's a great contrast.
Built-in shelving is ideal around a bed - who needs a nightstand when you've got shelves? I love the use of color here, too - all the bright pinks and oranges next to the clean white.
Q