Open vs. Closed Shelving in a Kitchen: Pros and Cons

When designing or remodelling a kitchen, one of the key decisions to make is whether to opt for open shelving or traditional closed cabinetry. Both options offer unique advantages and challenges, and the choice ultimately depends on your style, functionality needs, and maintenance preferences. Let's explore the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

Open Shelving

Pros:

1. Aesthetic Appeal – Open shelving creates a light, airy feel in the kitchen and showcases beautiful dishware, glassware, or decorative items.

2. Easy Access – Frequently used items are within easy reach, making cooking and cleaning more efficient.

3. Cost-Effective – Open shelving typically requires less material and labor, making it a more budget-friendly option.

4. Customisation and Creativity – Shelving can be arranged in various ways to create a personalized and visually interesting kitchen design.

Cons:

1. Maintenance and Cleaning – Open shelves require frequent dusting and cleaning since items are exposed to grease and dust.

2. Cluttered Appearance – If not well-organized, open shelving can make a kitchen look messy and overwhelming.

3. Limited Storage – Unlike cabinets, shelves don’t provide concealed storage for items you prefer to keep out of sight.

4. Potential for Breakage – Exposed dishes and glassware are more susceptible to accidental knocks and damage.

Closed Cabinetry

Pros:

1. Neat and Tidy Look – Traditional cabinets help maintain a clean and organized kitchen by keeping clutter out of sight.

2. Protection from Dust and Grease – Stored items remain cleaner for longer since they are enclosed.

3. More Storage Space – Cabinets allow for more efficient storage solutions, including pull-out drawers and hidden compartments.

4. Increased Home Value – Classic cabinetry is a timeless design choice that appeals to home buyers and adds long-term value to a kitchen.

Cons:

1. Higher Cost – Custom cabinetry can be expensive due to materials, hardware, and installation costs.

2. Less Accessible – Items stored in closed cabinets may require more effort to retrieve, especially if stored in deep or high-up spaces.

3. Bulkier Appearance – Closed cabinets can sometimes make a kitchen feel smaller or more enclosed, particularly in compact spaces.

Which One is Right for You?

If you love a modern, open, and airy kitchen, open shelving may be a great fit, especially for those who enjoy showcasing curated dishware. However, if organization and practicality are top priorities, traditional closed cabinetry may be the better choice. Many homeowners find a combination of both works best—closed cabinets for essential storage and open shelving for decorative or frequently used items.

How what we do can give you a better choice? As we sell our cabinets as a pack - they all come with a door included as standard - You just don’t have to fit it if you decide you would rather have an open cabinet - this gives you the best of both worlds at the same cost.

See our products here for examples of prices

No matter which option you choose, the key is balancing aesthetics with functionality to create a kitchen that suits your lifestyle and design preferences.