Kitchen Shelving Spacing and Sizing

Months after this kitchen project started, my open shelving is finally installed! You might remember I started the kitchen remodel last spring, changing out the lower cabinets ripping out the uppers, and adding new countertops. Well, life threw a few curveballs (seems like I should just be ready for those now…) along with a couple of delays and here we are! In any case, I’m absolutely thrilled! Because they are inspired by my previous shelves, I am sharing all the kitchen shelving spacing and sizing details!

These shelves might look a little familiar since I used the same wood shelves and brackets from the kitchen at my previous home (why mess with a good thing right?).

I’ll chat more about the brackets below, but I want to add a little disclaimer that most of my shelving is made using brackets from my brother’s company, Cascade Iron Co., (he built this small business!) so full disclosure – I’m related and I also do work for his company styling photos and such 🙂

Kitchen Shelving Details:

Ok, now onto the good stuff! From drilling on tile backsplash to spacing and kitchen shelf dimensions, I’m answering all your questions below! If you’re considering kitchen shelves check out my Pros & Cons to Open Shelving.

What Size Are Kitchen Shelves?

While there isn’t one standard shelf size, most kitchen shelves are about 11″-12″ deep. This typically lines up well with any upper cabinets, is large enough for plates, and is a good proportion for counter dept.

My shelves are 11.25″ deep (a common lumber size), 1.5″ thick and 46″ long. This is a good side for plates, cups, and bowls but also not so big that there are concerns about being too big and failing.

How to Space Kitchen Shelves?

When planning spacing, keep your kitchen’s layout in mind, but there are some general guidelines to follow. Most upper cabinets are typically 18 inches above the countertop, so if you’re working with existing ones, that’s something to consider.

Because there are no upper cabinets nearby, I went slightly lower and spaced my bottom shelf 17″ from the countertop. There is 13″ between my bottom and top shelf.

This spacing allows for ample use of the counter top plus space for items on both shelves. Just like a cabinet, I’ll need a stool for the top shelf and will use it for items I don’t need every day.

Can You Put A Shelf On Backsplash Tile?

Yes! It’s always a little nerve-racking but it’s totally possible. You’ll just need the right hardware, like a diamond drill bit and lots of focus. It’s surprisingly easy.

We practiced on a piece of scrap tile and because there is no going back, plus I double & triple checked all my measurements!

What Wood to Use for Shelves?

Almost any wood works well for shelves, though some are stronger than others (something like thin pine can sag over over time). For my shelves I chose white oak because I love the neutral and pale look.

My shelves have a special story as they were salvaged from a fallen oak tree that I paid to have milled. But no fear! White oak can be found online too (like this white oak shelf from Rejuvenation).

It’s also really easy to use common lumber from the hardware store (they will cut the length for you for free!) – you’ll just need to sand.

You’ll want to factor in the thickness of your wood shelves as you consider the kitchen shelving spacing.

What Stain to Use on Kitchen Shelves?

Surprise! I actually don’t use a stain on any of my shelves. I love the look of natural wood but also know we gotta protect these beauties from water stains and such.

Instead of stain, I treat my shelves with beeswax (works on butcher block and cutting boards too!). It’s easy to apply with a soft cloth and I usually reapply about once yearly.

What Shelf Brackets to Use for Kitchen Shelves?

There are so many style options out there! As mentioned, I use the metal shelf brackets my brother’s company makes (totally biased, but I think they are the best!).

Here’s how I made my decision though – my shelves are super heavy so I needed wider, heavy duty brackets. I like the contrast of the black metal so I went with brackets that have a front lip. Because I wanted the spacing beneath the shelves more free, I went with a J bracket style which has the leg behind and above the shelf.

Finally, I like that the shelves fit snugly into these brackets and don’t attach with a bolt – I don’t want to add any holes to these beautiful boards! (Check out my guide to making shelves for my in depth installation details)

How to Make Shelves Look Custom?

To make shelves look custom, focus on the size and how they align with the space. Make sure the shelves fit the wall—too big can overwhelm, and too small can look out of place. If they’re near cabinets, line them up with the edges or match the height for a seamless, built-in look.

For my kitchen, I made the shelves extend all the way to the adjacent wall so they look like they were designed specifically for the space (which they were!)

Final Thoughts

Adding shelving to your kitchen is such a simple yet impactful way to transform the space. Whether it’s for style, functionality, or both, the right shelves can completely change how your kitchen looks and feels. I hope these tips and details about my kitchen shelving help inspire your own project, whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to update an existing setup. Have questions or need advice? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear about your shelving plans!