Kitchens are evolving, and the most popular storage styles are changing with it. No longer are our cooking spaces filled with uniform rows of closed cabinetry hiding our ingredients, tableware, and utensils – instead, more open decorative displays are favored.
Which means your kitchen storage ideas need to extend beyond function and double as a decorative display. If you're wondering how to get it right, pretty kitchen storage jars are the perfect way to blend practical elements with aesthetic design.
'I live in a New York apartment, so every square foot matters. My kitchen is on the smaller side, and I try to make sure every element is both beautiful AND functional. Kitchen storage is no exception,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.
'When your storage is out in the open, which is often the case in a small kitchen, the containers themselves become part of the design. Swapping plastic containers for a set of glass, ceramic, or stoneware jars instantly makes a counter or open shelf feel intentionally curated rather than cluttered,' she explains.
Open storage filled with store-bought packaging can quickly feel cluttered and messy – and it will affect the overall feel of your kitchen. Beyond visual appeal, pretty storage jars are a relatively small upgrade that elevates the everyday, instantly making your kitchen feel a bit more curated and special. But styling is key.
'Mix storage jars in different heights, shapes, and materials to add visual interest and personality to your kitchen. A grouping of clear glass canisters looks beautiful, but I love mixing in a few stoneware crocks, a vintage apothecary jar, or a brass-lidded canister to add texture and warmth,' Kathy suggests.
'Use trays, boards, and containers to anchor a vignette on the counter. I love a wooden cutting board or marble tray that holds everyday ingredients like salt, pepper, and olive oil, plus a few stone vessels to keep your most-used cooking utensils within easy reach.'
From decorative glass to patterned ceramics, these are the kitchen storage jars to buy for a pretty but practical upgrade.
A few pretty jars will instantly elevate your kitchen storage, whether it's on open shelves, behind glass doors, or nestled on your countertops. Don't forget to consider your hidden storage, too. Our guide to storage ideas for kitchens without a pantry offers plenty of stylish solutions to make your space more curated.
Love beautiful design ideas, expert advice, and inspiring decor trends? Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest features delivered straight to your inbox.
