When interior designer Shea McGee shares her favorite kitchen features of the moment, I always take note. Shea has a whole list of go-to kitchen features she's been reaching for in her recent projects (each feels traditional, rustic, and oh-so sophisticated), but one simple yet surprisingly impactful piece of hardware stood out to me as something I could easily bring into my own kitchen, no demo needed – the old fashioned pot rail.
Shea took to Instagram to shout about her spotlight list of kitchen trends – 'elements she's loving right now' – and on that list was the humble, but very chic right now, pot rail. All good farmhouse kitchen ideas feature a pot rail. Traditionally used for hanging pans and utensils within easy reach of the stove, they're a classic way of fusing practicality with style.
Despite being a more traditional kitchen feature, pot rails can transform a newly-built, stark space and give it a dose of character and patina (not to mention they're a nifty kitchen storage idea too). They are also easy to install, no demo needed, and I have found some really affordable options – this was the quick and affordable update my kitchen was in need of.
Taking inspiration from the past, Shea is embracing more traditional kitchen features. In her Instagram post, Shea said, 'Kitchen trends come and go, but some elements never go out of style. We’re spotlighting a few we’re loving right now: Unique countertop edge profiles, integrated sink drains, pot rails as backsplashes, built-in plate racks, and sculleries and butler pantries.'
Each feature can make all the difference to a new kitchen and brings a sense of history, age, and heritage that's so important in this space. However, I love the simplicity of the pot rail. It's a kitchen feature that costs little to invest in, it's fuss-free and easy to fit onto a wall, and it makes a surprising amount of impact, framing a backsplash while still being neatly tucked away.
On Shea's blog, the Studio McGee team shares more thoughts on the fixture; 'We’re loving seeing and using pot rails as a backsplash feature. Spanning nearly the length of the range, this kitchen trend provides the opportunity to bring in some character through styling.'
A classic country kitchen features a pot rail, whether it's above a backsplash like Shea recommends or hanging on a ceiling, you can count on this piece of hardware to create instant character and charm.
Shop chic pot rails
Recreating Shea's rustic country-style kitchens couldn't be simpler with this list of chic yet affordable pot rails that radiate character.
This simple yet classic metal pot rail is finished in a timeless silver stainless steel. It comes with 10 sturdy hooks that will allow for plenty of pots and pans to hang effortlessly for years.
This unlacquered brass kitchen utensil rack is timeless and sophisticated. Ideal for bringing grandeur and warmth into the kitchen, this small but mighty accessory would look best with an array of rustic utensils.
Crafted from iron, the Metal Pot Rack Bar adds a vintage charm to the kitchen. Its array of hooks makes hanging any utensil and pan so easy, framing any space you place it in.
A feature that Shea has been loving, pot rails are a kitchen hardware trend that I don't see departing anytime soon. They are small but mighty and can transform an empty area into a charming display that radiates all things rustic.
