If you are planning a kitchen renovation, you are probably stuck between what is a practical choice versus what looks visually aesthetically pleasing. Deciding between open shelves and cabinets in the kitchen, or choosing a mix of both, can be a difficult choice. With so many trends and styles to choose from, narrowing down what works best for your home functionality, style and lifestyle can be overwhelming.
In this guide, we will break down the key questions to ask when it comes to choosing between open shelving and custom-made cabinetry, the pros and cons of each and how to effectively combine them in a way that makes sense for your home. At Vitality Kitchens & Joinery, we have over two decades of experience in designing and building custom kitchens and joinery that are not only functional but also beautiful.
What’s the Real Difference Between Open Shelves and Closed Cabinets?
Open Shelves Explained
Open shelves are defined by shelving systems that are wall-mounted without doors. They can be floating timber shelves, boxed shelves, steel brackets or niche-style ledges. They are typically found in modern and minimalist kitchens for their relaxed and simple aesthetic and ease of use.
Closed Cabinets Explained
Closed cabinetry is a traditional system of cupboards and drawers where shelving is closed off by a hinge or soft-close mechanism door. They are typically found in traditional kitchen designs and are the most practical way to store food and appliances while hiding the clutter.
Why This Decision Matters
The choice to have closed cabinets or open shelving changes the way a kitchen looks, feels and functions. It affects:
- Storage capacity
- Maintenance and cleaning
- How spacious your kitchen feels
- Child and pet safety
- Resale value
- How you actually use the kitchen every day
When determining which type of cabinetry is best for your home, it is important to understand how these factors will shape your living space now and in the long term.
The Pros and Cons of Open Shelving
Benefits of Open Shelving
Makes Small Kitchens Feel Larger
By having open shelving, small Sydney apartments, terraces or compact homes can feel more open and airy. Open shelves lighten the visual weight and create breathing space.
Quick Access to Everyday Items
Having open shelves means easy access to everyday items that you use regularly. Mugs, bowls, coffee supplies and spices are easy to grab when you need them. This suits those who love an easy flow or have a busy household.
Budget-Friendly Option
Open shelving typically costs less than full upper cabinets, making it the cost-effective choice, so you can spend your budget elsewhere.
Adds Warmth and Personality
With open shelving, you can create visual interest by having your favourite ceramics, books, plants or everyday items on display.
Drawbacks of Open Shelving
Dust, Grease, and Sydney’s Climate
In Sydney’s climate, dust and grease can quickly collect on open shelving, meaning monthly cleaning is needed to keep the shelves looking fresh and clean.
Styling Pressure
Open shelving can start to look cluttered or messy if it isn’t properly organised or coordinated.
Limited Storage Space
Open shelving can’t house the same amount of items, appliances or pantry supplies, resulting in more limited storage space.
Child and Pet Safety Considerations
If you have children or pets, having open shelving can be a safety hazard unless it is high up.
Not Always Ideal for Resale
A kitchen with only open shelving can divide buyers. Most buyers expect a baseline of functional closed cabinetry to be included.
The Pros and Cons of Closed Cabinets
Benefits of Closed Cabinets
Maximum Storage Capacity
With closed cabinetry, your kitchen is getting the maximum storage possible, making it an ideal choice for families or large households.
Clutter-Free Look
If you prefer a clutter-free look, choosing closed cabinets ensures everything is kept out of the way both visually and functionally.
Lower Maintenance
Because closed cabinets aren’t exposed to grease and dust, the outside only needs to be wiped down ever so often to ensure they stay looking fresh and clean.
Better for Child and Pet Safety
With closed cabinetry, you can put safety locks on it and keep pets from knocking things over.
Reliable for Resale
As most buyers prefer functional kitchens, having closed cabinets makes for a reliable resale.
Drawbacks of Closed Cabinets
Can Make a Room Feel “Boxy”
When a kitchen is full of closed cabinets, it can make a space feel boxy and closed in. This is common in older homes or narrow Sydney terraces.
Higher Cost
Whether you choose custom joinery or cabinetry, all closed cabinets come at a higher price due to the labour and materials needed to install them.
Can Look Heavy Without Design Breaks
If a kitchen only has closed cabinets, it can look very heavy and dark without design breaks. Choosing a light colour or glass front cabinets can help soften the look and feel.
TIP: Use upper cabinets in a lighter finish to avoid a “wall of cupboards” effect.
Hybrid Kitchen Storage – The Best of Both Worlds
Many homeowners are now opting for hybrid kitchens, typically found in mid-century modern kitchens, where both open shelves and closed cabinetry are integrated. This allows for the most functional and visually appealing look and feel.
What Is the 70/30 Rule?
A helpful guideline many designers use is the 70/30 rule:
- 70% closed cabinetry for practical, bulk storage
- 30% open shelving for easy-access items and styling
This creates a blend of function and personality without overwhelming the kitchen, leaving room for design choices without sacrificing functionality.
Where to Use Open Shelving
Open shelving works best when thoughtfully placed.
Consider using it:
- Above a benchtop in a dead corner
- Besides the rangehood (as long as it’s not too close to heavy cooking)
- In a butler’s pantry
- In a coffee station or breakfast nook
- On a blank wall where cabinets would feel too heavy
Where to Keep Closed Cabinets
Closed cabinetry is ideal:
- Below the benchtops
- Around cooktops and ovens
- In pantry and tall cabinet areas
- In high-traffic or child-accessible zones
Glass-Front Cabinets as a Stylish Compromise
If choosing to have closed cabinetry for the entire kitchen, opting for glass front cabinets can bring lightness and openness to the space. They still protect items from grease and dust while keeping the kitchen feeling bright and stylish, perfect for housing glassware, ceramics or styling pieces.
How to Choose What’s Right for You
Ask Yourself These Questions
When deciding which design choice is best for you, start by asking yourself these questions:
- Do you want to showcase items or hide them?
- Do you enjoy styling and weekly cleaning?
- Do you need more or less storage space?
- Do you have kids or pets that might make open shelves risky?
- Are you renovating to stay or to sell?
Consider Your Kitchen Layout
Once you have determined the questions above, think about how the layout of your kitchen will come into play. For example:
In small Sydney apartments
Use one open shelf or leave a small corner section open to keep the kitchen feeling spacious.
In larger open-plan homes
You can incorporate more shelving without losing practicality. Opting for a mix of both gives you both practicality and aesthetics.
In busy family homes
Closed cabinets often work best to keep clutter hidden and maintain order.
In modern designer spaces
A mix of shelving types adds character, texture, and variation.
Conclusion
When choosing between open shelving and closed cabinetry, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It all comes down to the design, functionality and lifestyle you are after. Open shelving brings personality and accessibility, allowing you to easily function throughout the kitchen or display your favourite items. Close cabinetry offers classic, timeless appeal, helping the kitchen remain clutter-free and safe. For many Sydney homeowners, a mix of the two delivers the best balance of beauty and function.
If you’re planning a renovation and want experts in kitchen renovation services that work perfectly for your lifestyle, Vitality Kitchens & Joinery is here to guide you through every detail, from layout to finishes to smart storage planning.
Learn more about our kitchen renovation services or get in touch with us for your free consultation today.
