Open storage cabinets are not exactly a new phenomenon, but in a design world intrigued with the idea of cutting-down on clutter and creating more open, minimal decor, people have a renewed interest in the idea of baring all.
While undeniably stylish, this trend is not for everyone – or perhaps more to the point, not for every room. Read on to see if it can work for you.
1) The Question of Follow-Through
Whether or not you can pull off this look depends on whether you have dedication to keep the space neat and tidy. Anyone who’s ever organized a closet or storage cabinet can tell you they can get messed up in less time than it took you to set it straight. In most cases, this isn’t a huge deal, because you can just shut a door, but in the case of open storage cabinets, every bit of neglect is showcased.
So, if you know you are committed enough to keep the contents of your cabinets organized, then open cabinet could be a great look for you. If not, then you may want to reconsider.
2) The Question of Contents
What will be in your cabinets are will also inform your decision. Open front cabinets in a kitchen can be tricky, since you have to be constantly vigilant to keep your cooking implements, ingredients and dinnerware in its place. However, in a laundry room, this is less of an issue since this space is generally not a high-traffic showroom for your home. In fact, having your detergents and cleaning supplies visible is a boon, since you can easily see where the things are you need.
3) The Question of Location
Here’s another important consideration: where will your cabinets be? While open concept cabinets in an office pose no issues, open concept cabinets in a nursery might. Aside from keeping diapers, wipes, creams, powders and clothing tidily hidden away, there’s the more pressing matter of safety: you don’t want your child being able to eat a tube of diaper rash ointment. Cabinets with doors and the proper child-proof locks are extremely important in this case.
4) The Question of Level
Drawing on our last point, the level of the cabinets matters. In a dining room, doors on the lower cabinets are a great idea to keep linens and unused table accessories out of sight, but on upper levels, open cabinets can be used to showcase fine China and crystal.
Same goes for kitchens: keeping cleaners and garbage containers concealed with doors on lower cabinets is ideal, while upper cabinets can be open concept where there is less to hide.
5) The Question of Degree
Here’s the thing: you don’t have to go hard or go home. Rooms can look great when just some of the cabinets are open storage. This way, you can display what you want, and tuck away the rest. In the kitchen, put your fancy oils, vases, plates and cups on display, but opt for doors on cabinets containing food. You don’t have to make a decision that applies across the board.
Home decor isn’t about choosing all or nothing. It’s about choosing what you can live with, to create a space you love to live in.
