displaying the everyday

Yes, I'm still a fan of open storage—the way it elevates the everyday into something beautiful to look at. Lately I've been finding some awesome examples of display storage—and not just for dishes and glasses and bowls and stuff for the kitchen, which is what I'm usually so drawn to, but also for books and magazines. How lovely are designer Lisa Sherry's custom display bookshelves she created for her home?


Magazines become art in plate-rack-like display.


This reminds me a bit of a bookstore display. Floating shelves have a thick lip to lean books against; the white wall and shelves make a great backdrop, like a white mat in a frame, for showing off colorful covers. Excellent idea.

And a few more ideas for unusual displays, beyond the traditional bookcase and spines-out storage...




But my favorite display of course goes back to the kitchen. Whether it's in my kitchen now, or my kitchen to come someday, I will have open shelving to show off the everyday as gorgeously as this, from the most recent House Beautiful. I just love seeing such jaw-dropping prettiness in the most hardworking, functional room in the home.

chris barrett design

8 comments

Holly Gruszka said...

I was just looking at that kitchen this morning - it's so pretty and clean and crisp. And I would love to have a book nook *someday* for both the adults and kids to enjoy.

Giulia Doyle said...

I love some open shelving in kitchens, but I'm weary of dust and grease. I have two open shelves above my built in bench which is a little bit a away from the stove.

I did a plate rack type bookshelf to display my daughters book - It's working out beautifully.

http://fishly-fishly.blogspot.com/2011/06/books-as-art-buecher-als-kunst.html

casey at loft and cottage said...

Thanks for the link, Giulia. It looks great!

Ashley said...

Open shelving is a call to organization! I love the look!

SHERRY HART said...

That last image has been in my files for a while now. Love!

Jessie said...

I am a new follower and I just wanted to say hi! :)

I really love the look of the children's book nook. So sweet!

The Vintique Object said...

That Chris Barrett kitchen (the entire house really) just kills me, it's so good. I've been through that entire issue a million times already. It's a keeper.
Camille

René said...

Darn it! I just missed your giveaway :(

On a more positive note, these images make me very happy. I love being able to easily access everyday items and you have shown very tasteful ways to do this.