Summer is the perfect season to refresh your kitchen and breathe new life into your space. One of the easiest and most eye-catching ways to do this is by styling your open shelves with both function and flair. Whether you're updating your home for summer guests or just want a seasonal upgrade, open shelving offers a breezy, minimalist canvas for showcasing your favorite kitchenware, ingredients, and decor.
Let’s dive into how to organize open shelving with style this summer!
The Basics: Why Open Shelving Works for Summer
Light & Airy Vibes:
Open shelving helps keep your summer kitchen looking light, open, and uncluttered.
Show Off Seasonal Favorites:
Display colorful kitchen essentials, summer-themed mugs, glass jars, or fresh herbs for a curated yet lived-in look.
Functional Aesthetics:
It’s not just about beauty—keep your go-to summer items within easy reach while still elevating your space.
Step-by-Step Guide to Styling Open Shelving
1. Declutter & Deep Clean
• Remove everything from your shelves and wipe them down with a citrus or lemon-scented natural cleaner.
• Donate or store away items you don’t use often—this is your summer reset!
2. Start with a Neutral Base
• Stack plates or bowls in classic whites or soft neutrals.
• Add clear glass jars for grains, snacks, or pasta—airtight jars keep summer humidity at bay and look stunning on display.
3. Add Pops of Summer Color
• Incorporate seasonal colors like lemon yellow, coral, turquoise, and sage green using cups, vases, or ceramic pitchers.
• Fold in seasonal fruits or small potted herbs for freshness.
4. Layer Textures
• Use wooden trays, rattan baskets, or woven placemats for an organic, summery feel.
• Lean cutting boards or decorative plates against the wall to add dimension.
5. Create Height & Balance
• Mix tall and short items to avoid visual monotony.
• Use cake stands, stack books, or elevate small jars with coasters for variation.
6. Personal Touches Matter
• Add framed mini prints, handwritten recipe cards, or a small summer-scented candle.
• Include one or two personal mementos to keep it cozy and lived-in.
Pro Tips for a Stunning Summer Shelf
• Stick to a Summer Color Palette:
Choose 2–3 complementary colors and repeat them throughout your display.
• Switch Out with the Seasons:
Rotate your shelf decor every season to keep your space fresh and relevant.
• Use the Rule of Thirds:
Group items in odd numbers—usually 3 or 5—for an aesthetically pleasing look.
• Keep it Practical:
Showcase what you actually use—plates, mugs, jars—but style them smartly.
Why This Works for a Summer Kitchen
• Easy Access:
Perfect for those quick summer meals and entertaining.
• Seasonal Refresh:
Open shelving helps you embrace seasonal styling with minimal effort.
• Instagram-Ready:
Whether you’re a host or a homebody, your kitchen gets that photogenic summer glow.
Final Thoughts
Open shelving is the ultimate way to blend utility and summer style. With the right balance of form and function, your summer kitchen can feel both efficient and effortlessly beautiful.
So, get ready to refresh, declutter, and showcase your essentials in a way that screams summer simplicity. Let your shelves do the talking this season!
