I like the idea of opening the kitchen up by removing some of the uppers if you can do with a little less storage. If you do floating shelves, maybe you could take the ones on the left of the sink around the corner so the shelf on that side is longer, makes a 90 degree corner and ends on the adjacent wall. That might help make the two different lengths less of an issue because you're changing the entire look on one side of the window. Just a thought! Others may have better ideas.

If you truly don’t need the storage and you don’t mind things getting dusty or possibly greasy, and if you’re able to keep it organized, remove a couple top cabinets. I actually don’t like shelves like you want, for those reasons. It’s a trend that is nearing its end, IMO. I think you need all those uppers to have a fully functioning kitchen. You have a very nice, clean and tidy space. Don’t go chasing a dying trend.

I agree.. and also think open shelves will definitely reduce much needed storage in a kitchen this size

What would you put on them? Unless you have a 'just have to show off' collection of some sort..what is the upside of open shelving? The look might give an over all lighter feel with no cabinet but function ought to lead, so how will you use them?

if you are redoing counters I would replace the lowers w sets of stacked drawers..looks like a 36 inch/ a 21 inch / and an 18 inch are about your sizes. storage obtained would allow reducing one of the uppers and that is a possibility. Kitchen this size would handle ikea easily .....no corners// improved and efficient storage/ good looking options/ low cost. I absolutely would not put new counters on this small kitchen while leaving hinged lowers.

I would not do floating shelves. especially in a kitchen of this size. they are impractical as stated above. this is not a trend that will age well.

To clarify it would be two shelves on both sides of the window. Looking to put dishes, nice storage, and other decor. We are changing the base cabinets to be a little more functional in new design

Function is best as it is. I totally agree with lala as to the PITA with open shelving in kitchens for sure . May some glass doors on those cabinets for a bit lighter look. If true functionality is what you are going for you would need a redo for more drawers for sure.

We think your countertop and backsplash choices look good. We might suggest adding hardware to the cabinets as well to tie everything together. We might suggest not doing floating shelves unless you want to dust/clean regularly. You could look at adding a few glass front cabinet doors and it might help the space feel lighter. See our design included here:

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We don't think you need to do open shelves, but you could. It really depends on your needs and if you are okay with dusting the items a lot to keep them clean. It looks as though the countertop and backsplash choices are good. We might suggest looking at adding hardware and updating the lighting in this kitchen as well.

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