The Chic Alternative To Kitchen Cabinets That Lets Your Dishware Shine

Cabinets are permanent fixtures in almost every kitchen. The plates and utensils have to go somewhere, don't they? One major issue with them is that those stacks of plates can be a hazard, especially when you're trying to retrieve specific ones. And sure, you can DIY a plate shelf system in your cabinet to tackle precarious stacking, but why don't you take it one step further and get a wall plate rack instead? A chic alternative to kitchen cabinets that lets your dishware shine, wall plate racks are having a resurgence now. Plate racks combine function and aesthetic appeal: You can cover that dead wall space with a pleasing piece of furniture, and showcase your prize-winning china as a bonus.

That's right, plates can also be decorative pieces, and many homeowners have embraced the trend of putting vintage plates on their walls. If you're not particular about vintage, a wall plate rack with your dazzling silverware is a good alternative. And if you're worried about dust on your plates, there are ways around that. If you install a plate rack away from any windows and your cooking area, you should be fine. You'll only need the occasional dusting, and that's a little price to pay for the bump in your kitchen's beauty. You could also go for a wall rack with doors to store your plates without foregoing dust protection. A clear acrylic or glass door would provide a protective barrier while still allowing your dishes to be visible.

Many design experts agree that the best place in your kitchen to store dinner plates should be a spot that is optimized for accessibility. These racks let you select plates with ease when you need them, which is a pretty welcome experience. How many times have you pulled out five plates from a cabinet just to reach the one at the back? Plate racks keep everything visible and within reach, so you're not playing Jenga with your dinnerware.

Wall plate racks also help save valuable space. Wall-mounted cabinets can make a kitchen feel claustrophobic. If you want some openness in your kitchen, a wall plate rack is a great way of achieving that. Plus, they maximize vertical space, freeing up your cabinet and counter space for appliances and the like. They also come in a variety of styles and designs, so you can rest assured that there's a plate rack that'll suit your kitchen perfectly.

These racks are also a great way to get a minimalist kitchen space. Minimalism deals with "keeping only what you need," and by having a plate rack with limited spaces, you'll be more conscious of what dishes you keep and display. This will lead to less clutter in your kitchen, unlike cabinets that encourage hoarding all the dishes you can get your hands on. These pieces of furniture signify more than a simple addition to your kitchen — they're a lifestyle shift.