how to cover open shelves in kitchen wall

How to Cover Open Shelves in Kitchen Wall

By Kevin Garcia
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Are you tired of seeing clutter on your kitchen walls? Open shelves can be a practical storage solution, but they can also make your space feel chaotic. If you're looking to add some order and style to your kitchen, consider covering your open shelves. This can help you hide unsightly items, create a cohesive look, and even add some extra functionality to your kitchen.

Covering open shelves in your kitchen wall can be a simple and effective way to transform the look of your space. Whether you're going for a sleek, modern look or a cozy, cottage-style kitchen, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we'll explore some of the best ways to cover open shelves in your kitchen wall.

Using Cabinets to Cover Open Shelves

One of the most straightforward ways to cover open shelves is to install cabinets over them. This can help you create a seamless look in your kitchen and hide any clutter that might be on the shelves below.

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When choosing cabinets to cover your open shelves, consider the style and finish of your existing cabinets. You'll want to choose cabinets that match or complement your current cabinets to create a cohesive look in your kitchen. You can also use this as an opportunity to add some extra storage space to your kitchen by choosing cabinets with doors and drawers.

Installing Upper Cabinets

Installing upper cabinets over your open shelves can help you create a streamlined look in your kitchen. This can be a great option if you have a small kitchen and want to maximize your storage space. When installing upper cabinets, make sure to leave enough clearance between the cabinets and the countertop below to allow for easy access to the shelves.

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To create a cohesive look, consider installing upper cabinets that are the same depth as your existing cabinets. You can also choose cabinets with glass doors to allow some light to filter through and create the illusion of open shelving.

Adding Wall Cabinets

If you don't have enough wall space for upper cabinets, consider adding wall cabinets to cover your open shelves. This can be a great option if you have a large kitchen and want to create some visual interest on your walls.

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When choosing wall cabinets, consider the height and width of your open shelves. You'll want to choose cabinets that are the same size or slightly larger than your shelves to create a seamless look. You can also choose cabinets with glass doors or open shelving to allow some light to filter through and create the illusion of open shelving.

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Using Other Materials to Cover Open Shelves

If you're looking for a more unique way to cover your open shelves, consider using other materials to create a statement in your kitchen. Here are some ideas to consider:

When choosing a material to cover your open shelves, consider the overall style and color scheme of your kitchen. You'll want to choose a material that complements your existing decor and adds some visual interest to your space.

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Wooden Panels

Covering your open shelves with wooden panels can help you create a warm, cozy feel in your kitchen. This can be a great option if you have a cottage-style or farmhouse kitchen.

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When choosing wooden panels, consider the type of wood and the finish. You can choose a light-colored wood for a bright, airy feel or a dark-colored wood for a more dramatic look. You can also choose to stain or paint the panels to match your existing cabinets or walls.

Metal Sheets

Covering your open shelves with metal sheets can help you create a modern, industrial look in your kitchen. This can be a great option if you have a contemporary or loft-style kitchen.

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When choosing metal sheets, consider the type of metal and the finish. You can choose from materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. You can also choose a brushed or polished finish to create a sleek, modern look.

Wallpaper or Fabric

Covering your open shelves with wallpaper or fabric can help you add some color and pattern to your kitchen. This can be a great option if you want to create a bold, statement look in your space.

When choosing wallpaper or fabric, consider the scale of the pattern and the color scheme. You'll want to choose a pattern that complements the size of your shelves and a color that complements your existing decor. You can also choose to frame the shelves with molding to create a more polished look.

Adding Functionality with Covered Open Shelves

Covering your open shelves can also help you add some extra functionality to your kitchen. Here are some ideas to consider:

When choosing a functional element to add to your covered open shelves, consider your specific needs and the layout of your kitchen. You'll want to choose an element that complements your existing decor and adds some practical value to your space.

Adding Lighting

Adding lighting to your covered open shelves can help you create a warm, inviting feel in your kitchen. This can also help you highlight any decorative items or artwork that you have on display.

When choosing lighting, consider the type of light fixture and the placement. You can choose from options like under-cabinet lighting, puck lights, or even a simple string of fairy lights. You can also choose to install a dimmer switch to create a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen.

Adding a Chalkboard or Whiteboard

Adding a chalkboard or whiteboard to your covered open shelves can help you create a practical space in your kitchen. This can be a great place to write grocery lists, leave notes for family members, or even display artwork or inspirational quotes.

When choosing a chalkboard or whiteboard, consider the size and the placement. You'll want to choose a size that fits well with the dimensions of your shelves and a placement that is easily accessible. You can also choose to frame the chalkboard or whiteboard to create a more polished look.

Covering open shelves in your kitchen wall can be a simple and effective way to transform the look and functionality of your space. Whether you choose to install cabinets, use other materials, or add some extra functionality, there are plenty of options to choose from. With a little creativity and some careful planning, you can create a kitchen that is both stylish and practical.

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