Open Kitchen Shelving in Brass: Design Ideas, Sizes and Installation Tips

Brass open shelving, often called bistro shelving after the classic European cafe and bar displays, is one of the most striking ways to bring warmth and craft into a kitchen. Slim brass rails, glass or wood shelves and a few well-chosen pieces can make a wall feel light, personal and finished. Here is how to plan it well.

Why choose brass shelving?

• Light, open look: slender brass frames take up less visual space than heavy cabinets.
• Warmth: brass glows against white tile, plaster, marble and painted cabinetry.
• Everyday access: the things you use most are always within reach.
• Ages beautifully: unlacquered brass develops a soft patina that suits both classic and modern kitchens.

Choose your mounting style

Wall-mounted shelving

A brass frame fixed to the wall, usually above a counter, sink or coffee station. The most versatile option and the easiest to install.

Ceiling and wall mounted shelving

Rails hang from the ceiling and are also fixed to the wall, creating a floating, architectural look. Popular in front of windows and over sinks.

Ceiling-hung shelving over an island

Shelves suspended above a kitchen island or bar, often combined with a pot rail. Dramatic and practical, but it needs careful planning for sight lines and structural fixing.

Freestanding shelving

Brass units with floor supports that need no drilling into the ceiling. Ideal for rentals, dining rooms and bar areas.

Glass or wood shelves?

Glass keeps everything light and lets daylight pass through, which is perfect in front of windows and in smaller kitchens. Wood adds warmth and texture and is a good choice for heavier items such as stacks of plates and cookbooks. Both pair beautifully with brass.

Get the dimensions right

• Depth: most kitchen open shelves are around 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) deep, enough for dinner plates without crowding the counter.
• Spacing between shelves: roughly 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm) suits glasses, mugs and bowls. Allow more for tall jars or bottles.
• Height above the counter: leave comfortable working room under the lowest shelf. Many designers start the first shelf about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) above the countertop.
• Width: align with features such as the sink, range hood or window so the shelving feels intentional.

These are common starting points. Your ideal sizes depend on your ceiling height, what you want to display and how you use the space. Brass shelving can be made to measure, so it is worth planning around your room rather than a standard size.

Styling tips

• Group items by color or material: white ceramics, clear glass, wood boards.
• Leave breathing room. A few empty spaces look calmer than packed shelves.
• Keep everyday items low and decorative pieces high.
• Repeat the brass elsewhere, for example in a brass faucet or pot rail, to tie the kitchen together.

Installation and safety

Open shelving carries real weight once it is loaded with dishes and glassware.

• Fix into wall studs, ceiling joists or solid masonry wherever possible, using fixings suitable for your wall type.
• Check the load rating of the shelving and of your fixings.
• For ceiling-hung shelving, confirm the structure above can take the load.
• If in doubt, have a professional installer or contractor fit it.

Made to your measurements

OLDENSOUK shelving is handmade in solid brass in our Marrakech workshop, with glass or wood shelves, and can be made to your dimensions. Explore our brass shelves and brackets and shelving hardware, or start a custom order with your wall measurements.

Frequently asked questions

Is open shelving practical in a kitchen?

Yes, for items you use often. Frequently used dishes rarely gather dust. Keep rarely used items in closed storage.

How do I clean brass shelving near the stove?

Wipe grease with warm water and a drop of dish soap, then dry. Read our brass care guide.

Can brass shelving be installed on tile?

Yes, with the correct drill bit and wall fixings. Drill carefully through the tile into the structure behind it.