Open shelving is a design trend that has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It not only adds functionality to a space but also creates a sense of openness and showcases your personal style. Whether you have a small kitchen, a living room, or a home office, incorporating open shelving can transform the look and feel of the room. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and strategies for using open shelving in your interior design, following the BAB (Before, After, Bridge) method.
Before: Assess the Space and Purpose
Before incorporating open shelving, assess the space and determine its purpose. Consider the following factors:
- Space availability: Evaluate the available wall space in the room. Take into account the size and layout to determine the ideal location for open shelving.
- Storage needs: Assess your storage needs and how open shelving can fulfill them. Consider whether you want to showcase decorative items, display frequently used kitchenware, or store books and files.
- Style and aesthetic: Consider your personal style and the overall aesthetic of the room. Open shelving can be designed to match various design styles, from minimalist and modern to rustic and eclectic.
After: Select and Arrange Items
Once you have assessed the space and purpose, it's time to select and arrange items on the open shelves. Follow these steps to achieve an organized and visually appealing display:
- Declutter and curate: Start by decluttering and organizing the items you plan to display. Keep in mind that open shelving exposes everything, so it's essential to curate a collection of items that are visually appealing and meaningful to you.
- Mix practicality and aesthetics: Combine practicality and aesthetics when selecting items for the shelves. Mix everyday essentials like dishes, glassware, and cooking utensils with decorative objects such as vases, plants, and art pieces.
- Arrange with balance: Arrange items with balance and visual interest. Consider varying the heights, shapes, and textures to create a dynamic display. Play with negative space to allow the eye to rest and appreciate the items on the shelves.
- Use containers and baskets: Incorporate containers and baskets to keep smaller items organized and add visual cohesiveness. Use stylish containers to store kitchen supplies or baskets for organizing office supplies.
Bridge: Maintain Organization and Cohesion
To maintain organization and cohesion with open shelving, consider the following tips:
- Group similar items: Group similar items together to create a cohesive and organized look. For example, gather all your coffee mugs on one shelf or arrange books by genre or color.
- Create focal points: Introduce focal points by placing standout items strategically. This could be a unique piece of artwork, a statement vase, or a collection of colorful spices.
- Embrace negative space: Leave some empty space on the shelves to maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance. This not only improves functionality but also allows the items on display to stand out.
Open shelving is a fantastic way to add functionality, openness, and personality to your space. By assessing the room, determining its purpose, selecting and arranging items strategically, and maintaining organization and cohesion, you can create a visually appealing display that showcases your style and provides easy access to frequently used items. Embrace the versatility and beauty of open shelving, and let it transform your home into a more organized and inviting space.
You will find many other interior design tips in our Top 50 Best Kept Secrets Used By Interior Designers to Transform your Space.
