The kitchen has become more than just a place to cook. It's where we gather, share meals, and show off a bit of style. So, when you're remodeling or designing your dream kitchen, the choice between open shelving and upper kitchen cabinets matters more than you might think. At Orchard Hill Cabinetry in Chicago, IL, we’ve worked with homeowners on both sides of the debate. Some want the sleek, airy look of open shelves. Others lean toward the classic storage and symmetry of upper cabinets. Which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
The case for open shelving
Open shelving brings a light, open feel to any kitchen. It removes visual bulk and gives your space a more modern, relaxed vibe. Open shelves are a great choice if you’ve got a gorgeous backsplash or want to show off your dinnerware. They invite creativity. You can change the look seasonally or whenever you feel like refreshing the space.
From a functional standpoint, open shelves make everyday items easy to grab. Your favorite mugs, plates, or cooking oils are always within reach. That’s a real bonus if you cook often and like things at your fingertips.
But open shelving isn't all sunshine and style. You’ll need to be intentional about what goes on it. They don’t hide clutter, so dishes should be organized, clean, and cohesive to keep the space looking polished. And yes, they’ll gather dust a bit faster than closed cabinets, so you’ll likely need to wipe them down more often.
Still, many homeowners we work with love the visual freedom and flexibility that open shelving gives them. It works especially well in smaller kitchens or designs that lean toward farmhouse, minimalist, or industrial styles.
The case for upper cabinets
Upper cabinets are the traditional workhorse of kitchen storage. They keep things tucked away, neat, and protected from dust, grease, and spills. For many homeowners, the extra enclosed storage they offer is non-negotiable.
Upper cabinets are especially helpful if you have a lot of kitchen gear or pantry items. You can use inserts, adjustable shelving, and pull-down hardware to make the most of the space. From a design perspective, upper cabinets also help create symmetry and structure, which can anchor the overall kitchen layout.
Another advantage? You don’t have to think too hard about styling. No one will know if your cereal boxes or mismatched mugs are inside. That level of simplicity is a win for busy families or anyone who prefers function over form.
One downside is that upper cabinets can feel bulky or closed in. If your kitchen doesn’t get much natural light, they may make it feel smaller. That’s why some people opt for a mix of both upper cabinets and open shelving.
The hybrid approach: best of both worlds
You don’t have to choose just one. We’ve seen amazing kitchens where open shelving and upper cabinets live side by side. For example, you might put open shelves on either side of the range hood for style, then run upper cabinets along the rest of the wall for storage.
This strategy lets you see the visual openness of the shelving while keeping the function and capacity of the kitchen cabinets. It’s also a smart compromise if you’re remodeling with resale value in mind. Potential buyers may appreciate a bit of trendiness without sacrificing practicality.
We often suggest using open shelves in areas that aren’t subject to high heat or moisture. This helps extend the lifespan of your shelving materials and makes upkeep easier.
Which one is right for your kitchen?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Your decision depends on how you live, cook, and organize your space. Think about what matters most: Is it showing off your favorite pieces? Is it hiding clutter? Do you need lots of storage? Do you love the idea of switching up your kitchen's look throughout the year?
Contact us for your kitchen cabinets
Our team at Orchard Hill Cabinetry in Chicago, IL, can help you weigh all the factors and design a solution that works for your home. Whether you’re leaning into the airy charm of open shelves, the reliable function of upper cabinets, or a little of both, we’ll craft custom cabinetry that matches your needs and style. We serve Southeast Michigan, Southern Wisconsin, Chicago, the Western and Northern Chicago suburbs, and the remainder of Illinois.
