How to Build Open Kitchen Shelves
A simple change from traditional cabinetry to open kitchen shelves is less expensive than buying new cabinets. It also will give your kitchen a modern look and a more open, airy feel. If you don't want your kitchen to be too modern but still want the open look, use rustic, reclaimed wood for shelving and iron brackets to help combine the old with the new. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Stud finder
- Level
- Measuring tape
- Shelves in various sizes to fit your kitchen wall space
- Brackets
- Long screws (and anchors for attaching to drywall only)
- Power drill
Instructions
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How to Build Open Kitchen Shelves
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1
Measure the length of the kitchen walls that will hold the open shelving. Decide whether to purchase "floating" shelves or shelves with visible support brackets.
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2
Use a stud finder to locate the position of studs along the walls where the shelves will go. Use a pencil to mark these locations with an "X."
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3
Buy the material for your shelving as well as decorative support brackets. Wood is popular choice for shelves; you can finish it in a variety of ways, and it's durable.
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4
Use a power drill and screws to Install the brackets at the "X" marks you made in Step 2. After installing the first bracket, use a 4-foot level to ensure the next bracket is level with it. If you are installing a bracket into drywall, first insert a drywall anchor, then a screw. Tug on the bracket to make sure it feels solid and secure before installing the next one.
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5
Lay a shelf on top of the brackets, adjusting its position until you are satisfied. Make sure the shelf is level, then use the power drill and screws to attach the shelf to the bracket (there will be a hole in the bracket for the screw). Measure the thickness of the shelf to ensure the screw isn't visible from the top of the shelf.
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6
Repeat until all the kitchen shelves are installed properly, then stack your dishes and glassware on them.
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Tips & Warnings
Try staggering the shelving lengths to create interest and avoid over-filling kitchen walls. For example, use a long shelf along the bottom, then center a shorter shelf above it. If you are going for a modern look, choose a bracket with a sharp, geometric shape, such as a square or a triangle, and which comes in chrome or another modern finish.
