There’s a new trend on the block – using floating stone as kitchen shelving. But is this design idea sophisticated or overly complicated? We look into this latest storage sensation…
When I started working in the world of interiors, open shelving was the kitchen craze. The humble wall cupboard had given way to having everything – yes, everything – out on display. And while many have since questioned its genuine practicality (think of all the dust!), the hashtag ‘shelfie’, where design aficionados share their shelf styling skills, has amassed more than 3.5 million posts on Instagram.
I myself, on several occasions, have considered installing a few shelves to display my ever-growing coffee-cup collection. But recently, I’ve noticed the concept has evolved to become a much more permanent fixture, with homeowners ditching wood and metal to embrace stone instead. Which makes me wonder, has this put the DIY-shelf-ers out of business?
Open shelving benefits
First things first, let’s look at the idea as a whole. Open kitchen shelving is perfect for taking your organisational skills one step further, while allowing you to add a touch of personality by displaying nostalgic memorabilia, your favourite crockery bought abroad, or antique décor. “A shelf makes a great feature in a room, offering the opportunity to personalise the space and add depth, providing a greater sense of flow, especially in a small room,” Magnus Nilsson, lead designer at Blakes London, tells me.
So why the sudden use of stone – considering there are easier ways to showcase your bits-and-bobs? Could it be down to the current trend of stone drenching, where you use the same material across the entire kitchen, from the worktops and splashbacks to the walls and floors? Or the shift towards using more opulent, statement work surfaces within kitchen design? Perhaps it’s both.
Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that opting for this feature will help you infuse elegance and sophistication into your space. If this is something you’d like in your own kitchen, here’s what you need to know…
Key practicalities
Floating stone shelving is versatile and can complement a range of kitchen styles, from modern Shaker cabinetry to Scandinavian-inspired wood designs. In terms of material, you can use any type of stone, from elegant marble and gleaming quartz to engineered surfaces – it’s worth remembering, though, that the cost will vary drastically within these options.
We suggest selecting the same stone as your worktop and splashback to achieve a cohesive look. “A good idea is to go down to your local fabricator to choose an off-cut, or think of using the waste from your kitchen worktops,” recommends Oliver Webb, director at Cullifords.
You’ll have to consider the logistics right at the planning stage of your project, as these can’t be fitted retrospectively. Magnus advises briefing your builders well in advance, as your shelf should be installed properly and strong enough to withstand various weights without cracking. “Despite the fact that stone shelves will be hollow, they will still be heavy and, as such, will require pre-prepared supports to be built into the structure of the wall before the wall is plastered, to ensure that they can be safely hung. But it’s worth the extra effort,” he says.
Oliver agrees. “With stone shelving, the weight is the main consideration,” he says. “A two-centimetre-thick stone has a weight of around 60kg per sq m.” You can, of course, recreate the look with brackets or support rods, just ensure the weight of the shelf is suitable for whichever fixture you choose. Seeking professional help will ultimately guarantee the success of your design.
Maintenance
Different materials come with their own sets of care requirements, but as with any open shelf, expect to be on dusting duty often. Plain water or a pH-neutral cleaning product is fine to use, too, as long as you rinse well and dry off the surface with a cloth after, to avoid stains.
Afraid this trend will date? “If you choose your shelving in an amazing stone, you know it will look wonderful forever,” says Olive.
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