Removing upper cabinets and installing open shelving is one of the easiest ways to update a kitchen. The process is similar to other shelving projects, but there are a few key variables to keep in mind for safe and strong kitchen shelves that not only function well but also look great. 

image credit: Conklin House 

Considerations for Kitchen Shelving:

Conklin House

1. DETERMINE SHELF DEPTH & LENGTH 

Kitchen shelves are typically 11.25"-12” deep, this size is large enough to hold most dish ware and consistent with many upper cabinet depths.  (See our overall shelving guide on where to find wood shelves). 

We recommend the number of brackets per shelf based on the length: 

0”-36” = 2 Brackets
37”-68” = 3 Brackets
69”-100”= 4 Brackets
101”-132”=5 Brackets
133”-164”=6 Brackets

2. SHELF PLACEMENT ON WALL

When determining shelf placement, in can be helpful to use painter's tape to mark it off in advance. This will help provide a general sense of proportion and space. 

General shelf placements guidelines:

3. CHOOSE SHELF BOARDS

For all shelving, we recommend finding the shelf boards before choosing brackets. This way, the correct bracket size and style are selected. 

Many people make their own shelves using dimensional lumber from the hardware store (they will cut it to the desired length free of charge!). Just be sure to use our common lumber guide since sizing can be tricky.

Because kitchen shelves are used a lot and might hold a good amount of weight, it's important to select strong, hard wood that won't bow or sag over time. 

4. CONSIDER INSTALLATION VARIABLES

Most shelving includes simply installing brackets into wall studs or drywall. However, kitchen shelves can have a few more things to consider. 

• Tile: it's important to consider whether the brackets will be installed on the backsplash tile or how the tile will transition into the shelf placement.   (We have helpful tips for installing brackets into tile on our general installation guide)

• Under Shelf Mounts: During the planning phase, it's helpful to determine whether any other hardware will be mounted beneath shelves. Our mug hooks and paper towel holders can increase function and space when installed under shelf. It's important to think of shelf thickness and placement if other hardware will be added. 

• Plan Around Construction Obstacles and Building Quirks: Shelves can be an excellent way of maximizing space and working around corners, tight spaces, or other building quirks. This often requires custom shelves, using additional brackets, or being open to different bracket styles but can offer maximum impact! 

 When deciding between what type of bracket to choose, our general shelving guide might be helpful to look.