Home » What to Put on Kitchen Shelves: How to Stylishly Decorate a Modern Kitchen

What to Put on Kitchen Shelves: How to Stylishly Decorate a Modern Kitchen

cosa mettere sulle mensole in cucina

The kitchen is the heart of the home, a place where functionality and style meet. Kitchen shelves have become an increasingly popular trend in modern kitchen decor, allowing you to display decorative items and utensils in a practical and aesthetic way. But what to put on kitchen shelves to achieve the maximum effect? Here are some ideas for modern kitchen shelves to style your kitchen with a smart and modern look!

1. Spice Jars and Dry Ingredients

Let’s start with one of the most practical options: spice jars and dry ingredients. Using transparent containers not only helps you keep everything organized, but also adds a touch of color and texture to the kitchen shelves. Choose coordinated jars for a more uniform look and organize the spices alphabetically for a touch of precision that will impress your guests.

how to decorate kitchen shelves
Set of 2 First picture shelves, 80 cm, Rustic Oak (eugenia_jm)
how to style kitchen shelves
Wall coat hanger, Rachele, 60 cm, Rustic Oak

2. Aromatic Plants

If you love cooking, having fresh aromatic plants at hand is a must. Basil, rosemary, mint, and parsley not only add freshness to your dishes, but also a green touch to your open kitchen shelves. Use colorful or coordinated pots with the rest of the decor for a more harmonious effect.

how to decorate kitchen shelves
Set of 2 First picture shelves, 80 cm, Rustic Oak (ricicreando)
kitchen shelves
Set of 2 Rachele shelves, 80 cm, Matt White (penny.rogers.home)

3. Cookbooks

Cookbooks can be an endless source of inspiration. Displaying them on kitchen shelves not only allows you to have them always at hand but also adds an intellectual and decorative touch. Alternate books of various sizes to create a dynamic visual play.

4. Decorative Accessories

Styling modern kitchen shelves with decorative accessories can completely transform the look of your space. Vases, candles, small sculptures, or frames with personal photos can add a touch of personality and style. Make sure not to overload the shelves to maintain a clean and orderly look.

kitchen shelves ideas
Set of 2 First picture shelves, 80 cm, Rustic Oak (srtadeco)
kitchen shelves ideas
Set of 2 First picture shelves, 80 cm, Rustic Oak (ladecoinspira)

5. Plates and Cups

For open kitchen shelves, plates and cups can become decorative elements. Choose colorful sets or those with particular designs to add vibrancy. You can alternate flat and deep plates and arrange the cups artistically for an eclectic and cozy look.

6. Food Containers

If chosen carefully, food containers can be both practical and beautiful. Glass, ceramic, or metal jars can hold pasta, cereals, or cookies, adding a decorative element to the kitchen shelves. Choose containers that match the overall style of the kitchen for a cohesive effect.

how to decorate kitchen shelves
Wall coat hanger, Rachele, 60 cm, Walnut
kitchen shelf ideas
Set of 2 Rachele shelves, 60 cm, Oak (chanala10)

7. Retro Items

If you love vintage style, why not decorate modern kitchen shelves with retro items? Old coffee machines, scales, or kitchen utensils can add a nostalgic and charming touch. However, remember to maintain a balance between vintage and modern to avoid creating too stark a contrast.

what to put on open kitchen shelves
Set of 3 Rectangular Cube Shelves, Giuditta, Rustic Oak
kitchen shelves
Mensole Angelica # Rovere Rustico (thewhitehoneyhome)

8. Cups and Glasses

Cups and glasses are another excellent idea for decorating kitchen walls with shelves. Choose cups of different shapes and colors for a playful and fun look. Glasses, especially colored ones or those with particular details, can add a touch of elegance.

kitchen shelves
Set of 2 First picture shelves, 80 cm, Rustic Oak (angelique.decor)

9. Baskets and Boxes

To keep the shelves tidy, baskets and boxes are ideal. You can use them to hide small objects or utensils that would otherwise create clutter. Choose natural materials like wicker for a rustic look, or opt for metal or plastic boxes for a more modern touch.

10. Personal Collections

Finally, the kitchen shelves can be the perfect place to display personal collections. Whether it’s coffee cups, teapots, or small souvenirs, these collections add a unique and personal touch to your kitchen. Make sure to arrange them orderly to avoid a cluttered look.

Conclusion

Styling kitchen shelves can be an opportunity to express your personal style and enhance the functionality of your space. Whether you prefer a modern, vintage, or eclectic look, there are endless possibilities for what to put on kitchen shelves. We hope these ideas have inspired you to transform your kitchen into an even more welcoming and beautiful place. And remember, the key is to balance aesthetics and practicality, creating a space that not only looks fantastic but also works perfectly for your daily needs.

For more tips on how to style your kitchen, you can read our article on the correct height to place shelves. Happy decorating!