When we began updating our cottage kitchen, our goal was to create a space that felt both practical and welcoming — a kitchen that functioned well for daily use, while still embracing the charm and character of our home. One of the most impactful changes we made was incorporating custom open shelving, and we’re so glad we partnered with Ultra Shelf to bring this part of our vision to life.
As anyone with a small or older kitchen knows, storage can be a real challenge. Our space didn’t allow for bulky cabinetry, and we didn’t want to sacrifice the open, airy feel we love about cottage-style kitchens. After researching a number of options, we found that Ultra Shelf offered everything we were looking for: custom sizing, quality craftsmanship, and beautifully designed shelves that enhance both function and aesthetic.
Custom Solutions for a Unique Space
One of the main reasons we chose Ultra Shelf was their ability to build shelves to exact specifications. Our kitchen has uneven walls, tight spaces, and a few architectural quirks that make off-the-shelf storage solutions difficult to install. Ultra Shelf allowed us to customize the width, depth, wood type, and finish — ensuring the final product fit our kitchen perfectly, both visually and structurally. We went with White Oak Shelves, In color Umber Grey. If storing dishes or glassware make sure you have a minimum 10 inch deep shelf, we went with 1.75 inches thick.
Adding Warmth and Character
We chose a warm natural wood finish that complements the other elements in our kitchen, such as our butcher block countertops and vintage-inspired hardware. The shelves immediately brought depth and texture to the room. They helped soften the space and gave it that lived-in, timeless quality that we associate with traditional cottage interiors.
Practical and Purposeful Design
While aesthetics were important, functionality was at the top of our priority list. These floating shelves are more than decorative — they serve a real purpose in our day-to-day routine. We use them to store our most frequently used items: mugs, bowls, and plates. Everything is easily accessible, and the open design encourages us to stay organized without feeling cluttered.
Despite their minimal appearance, the shelves are incredibly sturdy. Ultra Shelf’s quality materials and concealed mounting hardware provide a level of strength and durability that gives us confidence in their long-term performance — even with the constant demands of a busy kitchen.
A Simple Upgrade with Big Impact
Sometimes, it’s the simplest changes that make the most noticeable difference in a home. These shelves have completely transformed the way we use our kitchen — and how we feel in it. They’ve added warmth, functionality, and a touch of personality that feels true to our style and the history of the house.
Working with Ultra Shelf was a seamless experience from start to finish. Their team made the customization process easy, and the final product exceeded our expectations. If you’re looking to improve storage in your kitchen or add a design element that’s both beautiful and practical, we can confidently recommend Ultra Shelf.
This collaboration has made our kitchen more enjoyable to use and more beautiful to spend time in — and for that, we’re truly grateful.
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