Unused dishes are usually stored in cupboards and buffets, only to be brought out for special events or dinners. But as we’ve seen with her cake stands, Ina Garten likes to keep her tools and supplies proudly on display, and her gorgeous open pantry will make you want to leave your cabin and do the same.
In a recent Instagram post, Garten shared a corner of her kitchen that you don’t often see in her cookbooks and television shows. It’s a pantry with lots of open shelves. And Garten has expertly assembled her dinnerware, servingware, vases, mugs and more with such care that it looks like a piece of kitchenware at a home decor store.
“So nice to come downstairs and find that spring has arrived in my kitchen, even though it’s 26 degrees outside,” Garten captioned her post, referring to the blooming quinces and tulips on her kitchen island. “Brrrr.”
“I love how your plate pantry is organized [is]”, one person commented on her post. Another said: “I love that corner!”
The biggest problem with open shelving is that the pieces on the shelf will get dusty when not in use. But if you’re like Garten and use most of your pieces on a weekly basis, then you won’t have to worry about collecting dust. You can also install glass doors to keep out dust and debris while still keeping your collection on display.
Bring your cookware out of the shadows and give it a place of honor in your kitchen. You don’t have to have a full floor-to-ceiling open pantry like Garten – any open shelf will do. This will give your space a homey, country feel and allow you to enjoy your favorite “special” dishes even when you’re not using them.