Kitchen

Do-it-yourself open kitchen shelves

Open shelves in the kitchen

Many housewives use shelves in the kitchen. They are very practical, it is convenient to place on them kitchen utensils, food, seasonings, other large and small items. This is a great solution for any premises. They can be a good alternative to bulky cabinets. However, this design is accompanied by a number of difficulties associated with the need to constantly maintain order and hygiene.

This element performs not only a practical function, is used to store a variety of things, but also aesthetic. To decorate the interior, they use different materials, color, texture, make the original placement on the wall, hang them horizontally or vertically, a ladder or in a chaotic manner. Furniture perfectly complements such styles as Provence, Scandinavian, country.

Features of the design of the kitchen with shelves

Open shelves are full furniture. She is very comfortable and stylish. Allows you to organize the space, make it more fulfilled. Therefore, you should not classify this subject as secondary. The use of products instead of bulky cabinets makes it possible to add a twist to the interior, thanks to the open arrangement of cans, plates, pots, candles, boxes, and other things.

Kitchens with shelves look very spacious, visually seem larger. In this case, all the necessary items are at hand. With the correct arrangement of the utensils, the hostess's love for systematization and order will be clearly visible, in any case, she will have to cultivate this quality in herself, since all the elements are in plain sight.

White shelves

Many shelves in the kitchen Shelf in the kitchen Metal shelf Wooden shelves Bright kitchen

However, such decoration requires constant care, dust settles on unprotected surfaces, which will catch the eye. It is also impossible to flaunt unpresentable things, they should be hidden or disposed of. For small rooms it will be very difficult to place everything you need on shelves. If you increase their number, the room will become excessively cluttered.

Types of kitchen shelves

Shelves are a very convenient item, allowing rational use of space. They can be closed, represented by a standard cabinet, open, in the form of a horizontal bar mounted on the wall. To achieve harmony in the kitchen, designers often combine both options.Also, in appearance and installation method, the following types of products can be distinguished:

  • Wall mounted. These are the most common structures that are installed along a flat wall. They are characterized by a variety of shapes and sizes. There are single, multi-tiered models.
  • Floor standing. This is a transitional variety, which can be called a rack, an open cabinet. They are installed on the floor, for stability they are additionally fixed to the partition.
  • Soaring. An open shelf attached to the wall does not have visible fasteners. They can be located along partitions, in the corner.
  • Corner This is the perfect solution for a small kitchen. They allow you to use free corners, which are rarely used for any purpose.
  • Glowing. This item will help transform the interior. In fact, by treating any surface with chemical compounds, you can get the desired effect. To create the effect, fluorescent liquids, luminol are used.
  • With backlight. To do this, an LED strip is installed on the furniture. It is thin enough, so it will not be striking.
  • Outboard. Good models for large areas. With the help of a rope, cable, chain, they are fixed on the ceiling, wall beam, can be located in any convenient place, pressed against the wall, hang over the island part of the kitchen area.

Wall shelf

Floor shelf Many shelves Two shelves in the kitchen Hanging shelves Wall shelves in the kitchen

Materials - advantages and disadvantages

Shelves are a very sought after piece of furniture. It is difficult to find material that could not be used for their production. Home craftsmen in this matter have greatly succeeded, they use different approaches, make products from any means at hand, for example, from old boxes, pallets, from glass, plastic bottles, from cans, slate, and other accessible things. In industrial production, the following types of raw materials are used:

  • tree;
  • MDF and particleboard;
  • metal;
  • glass;
  • plastic.

Shelf instead of wardrobe

The purpose of the shelf, the style of its execution, depends on the material.This circumstance is taken into account when choosing a finished product that should harmoniously fit into the interior of the kitchen. In order to make the right decision, stop at the most suitable option, we will consider in detail the main types of raw materials used.

Tree

Wooden shelves are suitable for almost all styles in the interior. Natural wood is a win-win option. Products made from this material are found in most kitchens. They can have a simple and complex shape, located horizontally, vertically, in a corner. It is easy to work with this raw material, so you can make a shelf with your own hands.

When choosing a product, self-production, first of all, you need to pay attention to the quality of the board. It should be perfectly smooth, not have voids, cracks, chips, knots. The most affordable items for the price and processing, are made of coniferous wood: spruce, pine. Higher quality models, which are strong and durable, are produced from oak, ash, larch.

Wooden shelf

Illuminated shelves Country style kitchen Shelves in the interior of the kitchen Bright dishes on the shelves Wooden shelves

For fastening wall shelves to a wooden surface, you can use self-tapping screws, to a brick - dowels, to concrete - anchor bolts.

The main advantages of open wood structures include:

  • Environmental friendliness. Raw materials do not emit harmful substances.
  • Durability. With careful use, wood will last more than one year.
  • Beautiful appearance. The presence of a natural pattern always looks original.
  • Strength. The material is resistant to mechanical damage.
  • Prestige. The interior with wooden furniture has a rich view.

Disadvantages:

  • Fear of moisture. Without treatment with special water-repellent compounds, the tree may swell.
  • Difficult care. When cleaning, do not use detergents.
  • It does not tolerate direct sunlight. Under their action, the surface burns out.
  • Absorbs odors.

Kitchen shelves

MDF and particleboard

A cheaper option compared to solid wood are shelves made from MDF or particleboard. Both materials are made of sawdust, however, the particle board is glued using formaldehyde resins, so you need to choose a product with emission class E1 or E0. We consider individually each type of raw material.

  1. MDF. Literally, the abbreviation stands for finely dispersed fraction. It is made by pressing crushed chips at high pressure and temperature. Of the main advantages of the material can be identified: environmental friendliness, ease of processing, aesthetics, a wide selection of colors. The disadvantages include: high cost compared to particleboard, fear of moisture.
  2. Particleboard (particle board). It is produced by pressing chips mixed with non-mineral substances. If you use chipboard, then in terms of external characteristics it is not inferior to MDF, but significantly exceeds in terms of price category. However, the raw material has limited moisture resistance, low strength, it is impossible to make curly cuts on it, it emits harmful substances.

Shelves from MDF

White shelves and utensils The location of the shelves from MDF Chipboard shelves Location of shelves in the kitchen Kitchen shelves

Metal

This is the most durable material. Products are characterized by reliability. Designs are indispensable for equipping a durable stand for storing heavy items. They are very convenient to use in places with high dust and humidity. They will be a great addition to both professional and individual cuisine.

Shelves made of metal go well with kitchen sets, on the facade of which there are metal elements. They allow you to style the interior. And if earlier elements were associated with rude objects, now manufacturers produce thin-walled shelves characterized by elegant forms.

Metal Shelf Option

Metal products are characterized by the following positive qualities:

  • long term of operation;
  • good durability;
  • lightness, especially models made of aluminum;
  • not afraid of humidity, high temperatures.

Disadvantages:

  • the thing must be periodically painted to protect the surface from moisture;
  • not suitable for all interiors;
  • forged models have a very high cost;
  • It is very difficult to make it yourself, you will need a special tool, skills to work with a grinder and welding.

Location of metal shelves Shelves made of metal Metal shelves in the kitchen Kitchen shelving Metal shelves

To avoid corrosion, do not save on paint. It is necessary to choose high-quality coloring substances designed for metal.

Glass

Glass products are more familiar to the bathroom. However, these models are very popular with many designers and ordinary people. The material is neutral to water, does not absorb odors. Glass does not visually clutter up the space, transmits light well, gives any room airiness and lightness. Items look at ease, so many began to decorate them with small kitchens.

When choosing a suitable option, first of all, you should pay attention to the corners, they should be rounded, smooth to the touch. Sharp edges will cause cuts during cleaning. Also an important parameter is the thickness of the material, it should be at least 5 mm. The best option is tempered glass and laminated triplex, which are characterized by increased strength.

Glass shelves in the interior

Glasses on a glass shelf Cups on a glass shelf Glass shelves Glass shelves in the kitchen Glass shelves

The main advantages of the shelves include:

  • moisture neutral;
  • transparency;
  • durability;
  • large selection of shapes, unusual design;
  • attractive view.

Disadvantages:

  • fragility of most models;
  • low bearing capacity;
  • difficult care, fingerprints remain on the surface;
  • high cost of quality products;
  • a lot of weight.

Plastic

Along with other materials, plastic shelves is also in demand. They fit well into the interior of the room. Manufacturers produce different models that differ in design, appearance, color, texture.However, they are mainly represented by multilevel options used for storing kitchen utensils and food products.

Plastic shelves in the kitchen

Plastic models should not be hung above the stove, near heating appliances. The surface may be deformed by high temperature. Also, they can not be overloaded with various heavy objects. When choosing, do not give preference to cheap products, they quickly change their color. The ribbed surface is very difficult to clean.

A plastic item has certain advantages:

  • affordable price;
  • a light weight;
  • moisture neutral;
  • a large selection of shades and shapes;
  • simple installation;
  • easy care.

Disadvantages:

  • fragility, fear of mechanical damage;
  • low bearing capacity;
  • harmfulness, when heated, releases harmful substances;
  • short term of operation.

White plastic shelves

Plastic shelving White plastic shelf Green shelf Kitchen Shelves Plastic shelf

Shelves in different styles.

Hanging, table, floor storage structures should be in harmony with the overall style of the kitchen. They can be found in many designer interiors. Due to the variety of materials, shapes and designs, you can choose any successful combination with a headset, surfaces and other elements. It is important to choose the right color, taking into account the purpose of the shelf, the location, its perception in decorative lighting.

Provence style

Shelves and shelves in Provence style have an old look, as if hanging in the kitchen for several decades. Multiple cracks, roughnesses, roughness add convincingness. They create the impression of the design of the last century by processing materials in special techniques.

Provence shelf

Ideal for Provence - shelves made of wood. But because of the high cost, the natural beauty of wood is replaced with MDF, forged structures. The color of the shelving should be in harmony with the headset, textiles, surfaces. It should not be bright. Beige, sand, coffee, pale pink will do.

In the rustic kitchen of Provence, a lot of items and accessories are in sight, so open shelves are very welcome. They put all kinds of baskets, dishes, small decor and even pots.

Hi-tech style

Modern cool hi-tech or modern design accepts only practical materials. Shelves of metal and glass will fit perfectly. If these are other materials, then they should be painted black, white, blue, gray and their shades. Suitable freestanding structures, on rails, suspended or floor. The main rule is nothing more, just a direct functional purpose.

Hi-tech kitchen

Large iron racks can be used to store dishes. On wide shelves placed appliances, TV, a minimum number of decorative elements. Designs should have clearly defined lines, no arched shape and rounded corners. Often they install additional lighting.

Scandinavian style

The kitchen contains mostly natural materials. A tree is suitable for shelves. An excellent effect is the combination of open and closed shelving, painted white. Behind the doors you can hide dishes, rarely used items. Jars with original design spices, glasses are displayed for show.

Scandinavian style kitchen

Shelves should be spacious. Simultaneous finding of functional objects and decor elements is not allowed. The main purpose of the shelves in the kitchen in the Scandinavian style is the emphasis on stylistic orientation. The following items will help to successfully emphasize the original design:

  • Photographs, paintings, drawings of animals, the sea, nature;
  • Green houseplants (flowers in pots, decorative grass);
  • Natural stones, straight candles;
  • Volumetric letters (arbitrary or forming inscriptions);
  • Books with recipes, magazines.

Loft style

Attic style accepts massive shelves from a variety of materials.The main thing is to follow one direction with the overall interior. Usually loft kitchens are spacious and bright, so long single wooden shelves, corner brick structures, stainless steel lining on protruding pipes and other communications details will look great.

Loft style kitchen

The wall in the dining area can be decorated with shelves from inverted plywood boxes, shelving, leaning on a concrete wall. Despite the strength and the large mass of structures, they do not carry a functional promise. The main emphasis is on industrial accents.

Ideas and options for placing shelves in the kitchen

Open kitchen shelves will never lose their practical value. An excellent decorative element can be made in any style. The original interior decoration is the perfect solution for a small kitchen. Having chosen a good location, with their help you can increase the space, hide the flaws of the finish, create a cozy atmosphere. Shelves must be carefully fitted into the headset so that symmetry is not broken.

Placement of shelves in the kitchen

Using corner shelves

Ideal for saving space. You can use a lot of ideas for their good location. An interesting option for a small room - shelves under the ceiling. The wooden bars in the corner will look like decorative beams, at the same time fulfilling its intended purpose.

Corner structures can be attached at the headset's extreme drawer and placed on them frequently used items. It can be glasses, containers with spices, cookbooks. Decorating them with light, you can highlight the corner with the lights off and create an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility.

Corner shelf in the kitchen

Airiness gives the kitchen "floating shelves." The wide base allows you to unload the closed storage area, taking on part of this function. Design and materials can be any.

Shelves for flowers

Place these coasters as close to the window as possible because plants need light.The sizes and features of the shelves will depend on the number of colors and their appearance. Designs can be wall or floor, single or multi-seat.

Small pots can be placed on corner shelves, lovers of climbing plants are more suitable for sub-ceiling options. If the space in the kitchen allows, floor racks are a great option. Large pots with adult flowers can be placed on the lower tiers, the upper ones can be decorated with small-leaved and lush bushes.

Shelves for flowers

Narrow shelves made of light plastic will look good on the windowsill. Also, glass racks on suction cups with violets, decorative grass will fit into the window space. Fortified at the base of the structure can withstand up to 10 small pots, one medium flower.

Wine shelves

To store wine at home, many systems have been developed that meet all the requirements. In addition to decorative functions, bottle shelves should fulfill their intended purpose - to maintain the taste of a noble drink.

Improper arrangement of wine racks can adversely affect the color and texture of drinks. The main factors that can spoil the contents of the bottles are direct sunlight, excessive humidity, high temperature, vibration. When choosing a place in the kitchen for a wine shelf, you need to consider not only the design of the room and personal preferences. The type of construction and the way the bottles are placed is important. The following options will ensure product safety:

  • Vertical shelf for 5-10 bottles. The design is ideal for small kitchens. The elongated strip is mounted vertically to the wall. The wine is placed in the holes for the necks in a checkerboard pattern;
  • Horizontal suspension structures. Semi-closed drawers are also attached to the wall. Bottles are placed in a row, at the bottom you can make rails for storing glasses;
  • Diagonal. Bottles are sorted into specific cells by grades.This allows you to create optimal conditions for storage;
  • Inclined. Universal designs for the simultaneous storage of wines in a comfortable position and glasses;
  • Presentation. Suitable for large kitchens. The simultaneous combination of large inclined shelving units and horizontal pull-out shelves.

Shelves for wine

Wine shelf Wine bottle shelf Shelves for wine in the kitchen Wine shelf Wine shelves

Shelves under the windowsill

In small kitchens, there is always not enough space to store the necessary household items. The space under the windowsill often remains empty. If the battery is not hidden there and important communications do not pass, this place can be allocated for organizing convenient shelves.

The size of the structure will determine the height and depth of the windowsill. Material, design style should correspond to the overall decoration of the room, then the original shelves will seem to be part of the headset. You can place dishes, blanks for the winter and other items that do not have specific storage requirements under the windowsill. It is necessary to take into account the peculiarity of the darkened place. On mundane shelves do not place living plants, decorative elements.

Shelves under the windowsill

Shelves on the countertop

They will make the kitchen tidy and the countertop clean and spacious. Usually these are multi-tiered constructions with narrow shelves. They can accommodate many useful little things (salt shaker, napkin holder, knife stand and other items).

Shelves in several floors can have various shapes and features. The choice of the most convenient option will depend on the location of the table, the design of the apron, the presence of suspended structures.

Countertop Shelf

Railings with hanging shelves

A practical, fashionable solution for the kitchen. Designs look light and airy, but at the same time very durable and reliable. A variety of shapes and sizes allows you to choose a railing suitable for design with hanging shelves.

More often on railing you can find hooks. They hold objects with handles, gloves, scissors and other household trifles.If there is no need for a large number of such items, the design can be used to mount shelves and expand their functionality.

Railing with shelves

Railing with shelves Railing on the wall in the kitchen Railing for the kitchen Hanging shelves in the kitchen Railing in the kitchen

Before choosing a shelf, you need to determine its purpose. It is important to immediately indicate the approximate weight of items for future storage, size. You should also take into account the weight of the product itself, the presence of the sides. Shelves for railing can have a variety of shapes. They can be hung in the corner, above the countertop or sink.

Decorative lighting for shelves

Properly selected decorative lighting should naturally fit into the interior of the room, complement it. Its main feature is that they try to hide the light source. The main function is to focus on expressive lines, the beauty of shelves. In addition, their contents will be well visible, the search for the desired subject will not be complicated by the lack of light. You can organize lighting using:

  • Spotlights. They perform not only a decorative function, but also allow you to organize local lighting, illuminate the work area.
  • LED clips. Allow to organize illumination of glass shelves. They are small in size, do not interfere with the placed objects.
  • LED strip. It is very thin, with proper installation it will be invisible. Using the controller, the brightness of the diodes is adjusted separately for each color.

Corner shelf lighting

How to make shelf lighting Highlight for kitchen shelves Backlight option Shelf light Shelf lighting

Do-it-yourself options for making shelves

When making shelves on their own, they mainly use materials available for processing, which include wood, MDV, chipboard. To work with metal, glass, stone, you will need special tools and equipment, as well as handling skills. Quite often they use improvised materials, for example, skateboards, backs of chairs, pallets, old furniture.

The simplest single-level model can be made from a board and a rope.It is enough to choose the board you need in width, drill four holes along the edges, pass a thick rope into them and fix it on the wall. Of course, you first need to smooth the corners, level the surface, treat the product with moisture repellent, paint, varnish.

Shelf manufacturing process

You can independently produce multilevel, roll-out designs on wheels, make angular options, soaring models, and panels from shelves. It all depends on the intention of the author. They can be given an original shape in the form of various geometric shapes, animals, abstractions. Homemade shelves should be painted in the color appropriate for the interior, and additionally decorated.

Care: about cleanliness and how to avoid clutter on the shelves

Kitchen cleaning is much more common than in other rooms. This is due to the specifics of the room. It is possible to reduce the number of general cleanings to simple maintenance of order, if the storage system is organized correctly. Proper arrangement of shelves and racks minimizes contamination of surfaces and decorative objects.

It is necessary to take a responsible approach to the choice of material and color for shelves. Glossy dark surfaces get dirty faster, stains remain on them. If there is no desire to rub them to shine every day, it is better to refuse this option. Hanging shelves, floor racks must meet the following requirements:

  • They are not afraid of moisture and contact with chemicals for cleaning;
  • Easy to clean without prior disassembly;
  • Be roomy, fit the purpose.

Order on kitchen shelves

To avoid confusion in the kitchen, it is necessary to timely review the contents of the shelves and remove unused items. Every thing should have its place. If the rack is designed for decoration or plants, there will be no place on it for a dirty, forgotten spoon, a roll of paper towels.

Conclusion

Shelves in the kitchen are not a tribute to the latest trends, but a necessary useful item that will perform a decorative and practical function. With their help, you can transform the interior, make it unique. However, at the same time, a number of problems arise due to the open arrangement of many things.



Graduated from St. Petersburg State University of Industrial Technology and Design. More than 100 completed design projects.


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