Designing a small kitchen means every inch of space counts. One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with open shelving or closed cabinets. Both have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your style, your storage needs, and how you use your kitchen every day.
Open Shelving Gives a Light, Airy Feel
Open shelving can transform a small kitchen by making it feel lighter and more spacious. With no bulky cabinet doors, the room appears more open, and shelves can double as décor. Displaying neatly stacked dishes, a few plants, or colorful mugs can give the space personality and charm.
The downside is that everything is on show, so it requires a bit of styling and regular tidying. In a small kitchen where counter space is already tight, keeping shelves looking organized can be an extra task. Still, for people who love a styled, airy feel, the effort is worth it.
Closed Cabinets Keep Things Neat
Closed cabinets offer a different kind of advantage — they hide everything away. This is perfect for a small kitchen if you’d rather not have every dish and food item visible. Cabinets protect your items from dust, grease, and sunlight, and they can make the space feel cleaner, even if what’s behind the doors isn’t perfectly arranged.
The trade-off is that they can make the room feel visually heavier, which can matter in a space where you’re already working with limited light and square footage.
When Both Styles Work Together
Many small kitchens benefit from a mix of both. Open shelving on one wall or above the sink can add openness and style, while closed cabinets keep bulkier items and less aesthetic supplies hidden. This balance allows you to enjoy the display potential of open shelves without sacrificing the neatness and practicality of closed storage.
How to Decide What’s Best for You
When choosing between the two, think about your cooking habits, how often you use certain items, and how much time you’re willing to spend on upkeep.
- If you want your small kitchen to feel like an airy extension of your living space, open shelving could be your answer.
- If you prefer low-maintenance storage and a more streamlined look, closed cabinets might be the smarter choice.
- If you can’t decide, blend them — let your style shine while keeping your small kitchen functional and clutter-free.
