Glass kitchen cabinets impart a lightweight, airy aesthetic to any kitchen design. The transparency of the glass fronts provides an open and spacious feel while also allowing you to display attractive dishware, decor or colorful kitchenware.
However, the visibility of glass cabinetry also requires some special considerations. Fingerprints and smudges show easily, so maintenance and cleaning are a must. Glass shelves and fronts are also prone to chipping and cracking if not handled with care.
Plan Your Overall Kitchen Cabinet Decor Approach
When incorporating glass cabinets into your kitchen, first consider the overall style you want to achieve. Your choice of glass – clear, frosted, smoked, patterned – as well as the cabinet hardware and decorative accents will impact the look.
Select a color palette that complements the glass and coordinates with your countertops, backsplash and other finishes. Warm metal tones like brass and copper pair nicely with clear glass, while matte black or silver hardware can accentuate smoky gray glass cabinets.
Incorporate Lighting
Lighting is key for glass cabinets – it will highlight and illuminate the contents while adding ambiance. Consider the following lighting options:
- Undercabinet lighting
- Interior cabinet lighting
- Puck lights or strips above or inside cabinets
- Chandeliers or pendants over glass-front upper cabinets
Add Decorative Accents
Final touches like knobs, feet or brackets introduce another opportunity to include your personal style. Some options include:
- Glass or crystal cabinet knobs
- Ornate decorative casters or feet
- Metal or wood corbels/brackets below wall cabinets
Make Your Glass Cabinets Functional
While the contents of your glass cabinets will be on display, you still need them to function efficiently. Organization and smart storage will prevent a cluttered look:
Edit Contents
If your glass cabinets look jumbled or chaotic, start by removing excess items. Keep only essential dishware and glassware.
Use Organizing Tools
Use trays, stands, racks and baskets to corral similar items. Some popular options:
- Glass canister sets for dry goods
- Spice racks or lazy susans
- Plate stands
- Wine glass racks
Categorize Like Items
Group together glasses, mugs, plates, bowls, etc. Consider displaying sets or collections together.
Label Containers
For uniformity, affordably add custom labels to clear bins and canisters.
Store Less Used Items Strategically
Place lesser used specialty pieces up high or below to highlight everyday dishware at eye level.
Draw the Eye with Styling Techniques
Avoid a monotonous row of cups or plates. Use these tips to create a stunning display:
Spotlight Special Pieces
Draw attention to decorative china, colorful bowls or display-worthy items.
Stack and Pyramid
Stack plates and bowls in neat pyramids or triangles. Overlap items for added depth.
Vary Heights
Use risers, stands or a shelf edge to angle and elevate select pieces.
Play With Color and Texture
Combine glassware, ceramics, metals and wood for visual interest.
Change Up Your Look Seasonally
One benefit of glass cabinets? You can easily refresh your decor to reflect the seasons or holidays:
- Spring: Pastels, florals, fresh greenery
- Summer: Bright pops of color, picnic and barbeque items
- Fall: Warm tones, baking dishes, pumpkins
- Winter: Sparkle and shine with mercury glass, silvers
Extra Glass Cabinet Care Tips
To keep glass cabinets looking their best:
- Use microfiber cloths and glass cleaner for streak-free shine
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth
- Avoid overcrowding shelves
- Use padded feet under glass shelves and racks
- Open and close doors gently to prevent cracks
FAQs
What should I store in glass cabinets?
Glass cabinets allow you to prominently display dishware, glassware, serveware and decorative items. You can showcase your best chinaware, antique plates or colorful mugs. Just be sure to keep the contents organized and free of clutter.
How do I keep glass cabinets looking clean?
Regular dusting and cleaning is key. Use a microfiber cloth and a non-streaking glass cleaner weekly. For fingerprints, rub gently with a soft cloth and glass cleaner. Avoid overcrowding shelves to minimize dust buildup.
Clean glass cabinet doors at least once a week for spotless shine. Make it part of your regular kitchen cleaning routine. If you notice fingerprints or smudges, simply use glass cleaner as needed between regular weekly cleanings.
