Open storage, whether in the kitchen, living room, closet or in such functional spaces as mudrooms, basements or garages, has plenty of benefits. Open shelving or racks provide easy access to your things and can make a room feel brighter and more open than spaces with hidden or closed storage like cabinets or drawers.
Open storage and shelving, however, “require much more intention than most people realize,” says Micaela Quinton, director of design at Copper Sky Design + Remodel. “The best open-shelving designs look effortless, but in reality, achieving that look often takes years of collecting and thoughtful arranging. Without a thoughtful approach, open shelving tends to create visual clutter, rather than a sense of openness, making a space feel busier instead of calmer.”
Visual clutter — too many objects competing for attention — can leave a room looking messy or disorganized, affecting both the aesthetic and functionality of the space. Getting open storage right can be tricky, but these expert tips can help you figure out how to make it work.
Use open storage to display your most beautiful things
Open storage can make a room feel light and airy, but it’s not meant to store anything and everything, says Catherine Balding, the co-owner of Balding Design Build. “The challenge is finding a balance between form and function. Everything we store is not always visually appealing, such as cleaning products or first-aid supplies.”
Balding suggests reserving open shelving for items that are aesthetically pleasing, such as books, baskets and glassware, including decorative jars or vases. “We recommend thinking about overall cohesion in the room,” she says. “For example, a set of matching teacups are typically going to play better than a mixture of your more sentimental mugs with unique and varied designs.”
Think big
Displaying fewer, larger pieces instead of a lot of small items or mixing in artwork “breaks up the repetition,” Quinton says. Using larger items and leaving space for them to breathe also helps prevent visual clutter. “Overfilling shelves adds to the clutter,” says Steve Counihan, a general manager at California Closets.
Delineate between decorative storage and functional storage
“I think of open storage in two categories,” Quinton says, “decorative storage and functional storage.” First, designate basements, garages and secondary hallways as functional storage spaces for such items as jackets, umbrellas, bags, shoes and sports gear. “The goal is to keep the visual noise of everyday life out of your primary living spaces and your constant view,” she says. Then, treat open storage in the kitchen or family room as a place to decorate. But remember, Quinton adds, that “empty space is just as important as what you’re displaying. Editing down is critical, and when in doubt, remove something.”
Prioritize containment
One key to making open storage work, without looking cluttered or messy, is using containers — especially ones that add visual interest or reflect your style. “Whether it’s clear plastic bins, fabric or rattan baskets, or jars and large bowls, containers keep open storage tidy, organized and visually appealing,” says Jennifer Pearson, a design lead at California Closets.
Use decorative items to create visual interest
Mixing in decorative items can break up rows of like items such as games, books or even small household goods. “Intentionally place a few picture frames, vases or candles on the bookshelf,” Pearson says.
Set limits
Counihan recommends limiting what you display: “Don’t completely fill up every shelf.” Instead, group similar items to create visual cohesion and routinely tidy and edit to keep the space functional and orderly. “Open storage requires good habits to stay organized,” he says, “especially if you have items that aren’t just for display purposes.”
Matching creates visual order
An easy way to keep things looking organized is to use matching and/or coordinating containers. “Mixing different bins, baskets or containers can cause visual and mental disorganization,” Counihan says. Mismatched hangers, too, are an often overlooked source of visual clutter. “Something as simple as using matching hangers in an open hanging area can go a long way toward creating harmony,” Pearson says.
Store like with like
Grouping such things as office supplies, decorations or books is an easy way to make open storage work efficiently. “Keep similar items batched together and create designated zones for each category,” says Pearson, who recommends labeling opaque containers. “Using labels on storage bins or shelf edges ensures the family knows just where to place items to keep the clutter tidy.”
Use spacers for stacked piles
Stacks of towels, sweaters and T-shirts are prone to toppling on shelves that are too wide. “Shelf spacing can be a challenge,” Pearson says. To keep stacks from leaning or falling over, use shelf dividers to create structure.
Skip the wall hooks
Adding wall hooks to create more storage can backfire in open storage settings. “This immediately creates visual clutter,” Quinton says. “Only utilize wall hooks in a hidden or out-of-sight location.”
Don’t forget about dust
“Remember that anything stored on a shelf or in an open manner will be subject to dust over time,” Balding says. This is especially true in kitchens, where sticky residue from cooking oils builds up and traps dust. “A big mistake I see is an overuse of open shelving in the kitchen,” Quinton says. “Open kitchen shelving only works if you’re committed to it. Everything is on display, so your dishes and accessories need to look curated and cohesive, and you’ll need to clean them regularly.”
Also consider dust when selecting items to display in open storage, and consider changes to make the space more functional. “An alternative would be to add glass doors to minimize dust while keeping the open storage for display items,” Counihan says.
Remove it
Finally, if the open storage in your home simply isn’t working, “don’t be afraid to remove it,” Quinton says. Removing or even reducing the number of shelves creates space that can calm a room that has started to feel overcrowded. “A little open shelving can add warmth and character,” she says. “Too much and I suggest getting a sledgehammer out.”
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