Install Easy DIY Floating Shelves To Double Your Kitchen Storage

If your kitchen is feeling cramped and disorganized, installing floating shelves can be a simple DIY solution to double your storage and style up your space. Floating shelves provide an open and airy look, while offering versatile storage for both decorative and functional items.

With some careful planning and a DIY installation, you can create custom shelving that’s perfect for your needs and style.

Materials – Choose Floating Shelves to Match Your Kitchen

The first step is selecting shelf materials that align with the look you want and your kitchen’s functionality. Here are some top options:

Wood Shelves

Wood is a classic choice that offers a warm, natural look. Pine, poplar, oak, and maple are all solid wood options. Key factors are moisture resistance and tendency to warp. Maple and poplar are good choices for high moisture kitchen areas.

Opt for pre-finished wood or properly seal untreated wood yourself. Use wood filler to patch imperfections. Wood stained or painted in neutral, bright, or pastel tones works well with a variety of kitchen styles.

Metal Shelves

Sleek metal like aluminum, stainless steel, or nickel provide an industrial, contemporary vibe. Metal is also very strong and durable. Be aware that metal shelves show any scratches or dings. We recommend a brushed metal finish to help minimize this.

Tempered glass shelves with a chrome or nickel finish can give a classy, elegant look. Just know that glass is prone to chipping and any dust is highly visible.

Other Shelf Materials

Floating shelves come in a wide array of materials like cement, reclaimed barnwood, plastic laminates, and wood composites. Choose a material that coordinates with your existing kitchen finishes and aesthetic preferences.

Select the Right Hardware for Floating Shelves

Equally important as the shelves themselves is choosing brackets that properly support the shelf material and weight without sagging. Here are key considerations when selecting shelf brackets:

Bracket Material

Wood, metal, plastic, and plastic/metal combinations are common. Make sure it is durable enough for the shelf load.

Weight Capacity

Bracket product listings will provide a maximum weight capacity. Double-check your shelf contents will not exceed this.

Adjustable or Fixed

Adjustable brackets allow tweaking shelf positioning. Non-adjustable give a cleaner look but less flexibility.

Visible or Hidden Brackets

Brackets that attach to the wall behind shelves are hidden. Visible brackets add industrial flair.

Choose a bracket finish that matches or complements the shelves. Oil rubbed bronze works well with wood, while brushed nickel suits modern metal shelves.

DIY Installation of Floating Shelves

Installing floating shelves is a relatively simple DIY project. Follow these steps for proper measuring, marking, mounting, and leveling.

Plan Shelf Layout

Consider existing cabinets, appliances and decor when deciding placement. Space shelves far enough for items to slide on and off easily. Mark stud locations for secure attachment.

Mount Brackets Level & Plumb

Use a stud finder, then pre-drill and attach brackets into studs with appropriate anchors or screws. Use a level on all sides to ensure flush alignment.

Set Shelves and Verify Level

Once brackets are installed, set shelves on them. Recheck levelness across all shelves and adjust brackets as needed to avoid tipping.

For stability with heavier items, attach optional clear shelf supports to the wall at shelf edges.

Creative Floating Shelf Ideas for Kitchen Storage

Beyond just horizontal shelves, think creatively about how you can best use this versatile shelving approach in your kitchen. Here are some ideas:

Open Shelving for Full Access

Completely open shelves are great for storing frequently accessed items. Try more narrow depths for a lighter, airier look.

Enclosed Shelving for Concealed Storage

Hide rarely used items like extra pans behind cabinet-like doors, false drawer fronts, or side panels/frames attached to some shelves.

Vary Shelf Heights

Layer shelves at staggered heights for visual interest. This also lets you store a variety of different sized items.

Use Baskets for Design and Organization

Woven baskets are great for corralling pots/pans, utensils, and pantry goods while adding texture. Label fronts for zones.

A few styling techniques can take your shelves from boring to bold:

• Organize items from largest in the back to smallest in front
• Play with combining materials, like rustic wood shelf with metal racks
• Incorporate greenery, accent lighting, art
• Use books or trays to add color pops

Take advantage of the amazing potential floating shelves add to your kitchen. With smart planning and DIY installation, you can double your storage capacity and create a personalized, functional focal point.