15 Times Instagram Proved That Open Shelving Is Still IN

​What's Replacing Upper Kitchen Cabinets?

First, you might be wondering what you'd do with all that empty space on your kitchen walls. Don't worry: it's not just going to remain bare.

Instead, open shelving — like these shelves from Wayfair — has become the go-to decor choice. It still affords you storage space but with a playful twist. This parallels the direction that numerous homeowners have been heading– moving away from their kitchen looking, well, just like a kitchen and infusing more personality into their unique space.

Think about it: your living room may have a typical couch and TV, like most homes, but it probably isn't a cookie-cutter replica of anyone else's house. You have knick-knacks, artwork, lighting fixtures, and other furniture that you've hand-picked and curated into your very own collection.

Of course, kitchens will always be used for cooking, and they should remain functional. At the same time, though, many homeowners recognize that if they spend so much of their lives in this room, it should almost be an extension of the rest of their decor, like with these shelves from West Elm!

That's precisely why open shelving is taking over. It affords you the ability to customize your kitchen to the max, adding anything from antique dishware, cool cooking tools, and vintage mugs to funky cutting boards or cookbooks as decor.

And by giving yourself the opportunity to decorate on a vertical plane, you're opening up a ton of counter space that might've otherwise felt cluttered and, again, dark due to upper kitchen cabinet shadows.

While this might sound great, you may still be concerned about all those pots and pans that are currently stacked in your cabinets. Luckily, there are other more practical storage solutions you can integrate alongside open shelving.

Pantries are a great option. You can transform a broom closet to store your extra dry goods and cookware. Or, infuse your kitchen with even more character by picking up a vintage armoire and using it as an unexpected pantry.

Your lower cabinets can get an upgrade as well. Many homeowners are opting for deeper kitchen drawers, meaning they can hold more pots and pans, as well as shelves that are tiered and roll out.

It's important to remember that everyone's space (and amount of kitchenware) is different, so being thoughtful is key. Consider how much storage you really need, say goodbye to anything that's no longer serving a purpose, and get creative.

One thing is certain: you won't miss having to drag out the stepstool or stand on your tip-toes to access those hard-to-reach upper kitchen cabinets anymore.

1. Entryway

From work commutes to errand runs, you're probably on the go a lot. Why waste time getting out the door by dealing with a disorganized entryway every single day?

Think of your front door as a "launching pad." In other words, whatever you need to help make leaving and arriving home easier should be right there for simple access.

If you have a closet to work with, that's great. Otherwise, cubbies or even a utility shelf will work. Make sure your most used shoes, coats, and other accessories are neatly stacked, hung, or put away. You can take those heels you only wear for date nights or random extra scarves back to your bedroom.

Then, set up a space for your personal items, like your purse, keys, sunglasses, and any mail you grab on the way in. You'll know exactly where they are the next time you're running late, and you can add personal touches like greenery or artwork to make your launch pad more aesthetically pleasing.

2. Living Room

Next up is the living room, where you probably spent the bulk of your time with family and friends. This fact means it tends to naturally become the most cluttered room in everyone's home.

If you feel like you're lacking storage, don't forget to utilize vertical space. You can install shelving, for instance, or buy tall open-shelving cabinets that look like built-ins.

Either way, by adding decor pieces, books, or other commonly used items, like speakers and games, you'll infuse the room with more character and dimension while saving floor space.

Don't underestimate the functionality of baskets, either. They're great for holding everything from pet toys to blankets and even magazines or photo albums.

Plus, if you have kids and constantly feel inundated by their toys, say goodbye to the typical storage container solution. Even though it may work for some parents, these containers are still an eyesore and never really leave your line of sight in the living room.

Instead, you can transform an old or thrifted dresser into a toy storage area. Select one that matches your interior design style to keep your space looking clean and uncluttered while allowing your kids to easily grab whatever they want to play with.

3. Bedroom & Closet

Shared or not, the bedroom has a way of collecting clutter like nobody's business. That's why we have to get creative to save space and make our lives easier.

One of the most overlooked areas is right under your bed. You can store anything from hobby items, like art supplies, to seasonal clothing and less frequently worn shoes.

Search for storage containers with wheels under the bed. Or, if your bedframe needs an upgrade, look for one that has drawers!

Then, in your closet, make sure your clothing and accessories are arranged in a way that makes sense.

For example, if you work a corporate job, group all of your business attire, like slacks, blazers, and loafers, in one section to quickly get dressed and go in the morning. The same goes for casual wear, workout attire, and evening wear or pajamas.

Finally, if you have shelving, add labeled bins to store clunkier garments like sweaters and sweatshirts. Any remaining room can be used to hold extra clutter that you clear off horizontal surfaces, like your desk, vanity, or dresser, to make your bedroom feel more light.

4. Bathroom

Last but not least is the dreaded bathroom. This room of the house can become a dumping ground for all sorts of products and beauty tools.

Just like in your living room, you should use any empty wall space to your advantage. Hang up hooks to hold your towels and clothing while you bathe, or use an over-the-door organizer to give your extra towels and robes a home.

Also, if you live with multiple people, it can be helpful to give each family member their own designated cabinet. This will keep everyone's products separate and prevent any from becoming a "junk drawer."

Last but not least, our top tip for keeping your bathroom fresh and organized is to get rid of your personal items on a regular basis. Stop holding onto that old tube of toothpaste that's practically flat or accumulating multiple bottles of face wash.

Rather, go through your products once a month to purge anything that's expired or no longer used. This simple act alone will make a real difference.

Our March TV shows are starting with a bang thanks to the Oscars. Will Emilia Pérez beat Wicked (again)? Will Timothée Chalamet become the youngest Best Actor winner? Will Zendaya show up to support Dune but use her 'fit to reference her Challengers snub? Tune in to find out.

The Oscars airs March 2 and will be hosted by Conan O'Brien.

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Matt Murdock is FINALLY back, and he's fighting injustice in New York City — both with his daytime law job and his masked alter ego. And Wilson Fisk is out on his own political quest as things in the city continue to spiral.

Daredevil: Born Again premieres March 4 and stars Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, Margarita Levieva, Deborah Ann Woll, Elden Henson, Wilson Bethel, Zabryna Guevara, Nikki M. James, Genneya Walton, Arty Froushan, Clark Johnson, Michael Gandolfini, Ayelet Zurer, and Jon Bernthal.

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​Dark Winds Season 3 — On AMC March 9, 2025

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​Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up Season 2 — On Lifetime March 10, 2025

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The Residence — On Netflix March 20, 2025

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