Creative Floating Shelves for More Storage Over the Kitchen Sink

Adding floating shelves above the kitchen sink is a great way to maximize storage and style. With their light and airy look, floating shelves create the illusion of more space in the kitchen. They also provide a unique alternative to traditional upper cabinets for displaying decorative items, plants, or functional kitchenware.

Choosing the Right Floating Shelves

When selecting floating shelves for over your kitchen sink, there are a few key considerations:

• Size of sink and available space - Measure the area to ensure the shelves will fit without interfering with the faucet or window. Allow for proper clearance.
• Material options - Wood, metal, or glass shelves each have their own aesthetic. Choose a material that matches your kitchen decor.
• Open vs. enclosed - Both open and enclosed shelf designs work above a sink. Open shelves provide easy access while enclosed ones hide clutter.
• Finish - Match the finish of your faucets and other hardware, like bronze, black, brushed nickel, or chrome.
• Weight capacity - Check how much weight the shelves and mounting brackets can handle.
• Floating look - Get a true floating look with concealed or low-profile brackets.

Standard vs. Custom Sizing

For a more seamless look, have shelves custom cut to size. But standard sizes like 12 or 16 inches wide are economical and still blend well.

Mounted vs. Freestanding

Mounted floating shelves attach securely to the wall and create a sleek, built-in look. Freestanding shelves simply rest on brackets for easier installation.

Measuring and Planning the Layout

Proper planning and measuring ensures your floating shelves fit the space correctly:

• Take detailed measurements of the wall area and sink/faucet clearance needed. Remember to account for any windowsills or backsplashes.
• Map out stud locations to anchor shelves securely. Studs provide the strongest support.
• Purchase the appropriate mounting brackets or rails for your shelf size. Make sure weight capacities are not exceeded.

Allow Proper Clearance

Leave ample clearance so shelves don't interfere with using the sink. For the faucet, leave at least 3 inches or the faucet height. Have at least 9 inches of clearance from the shelves to the countertop.

Locate Studs for Installation

Shelf brackets will need to be screwed into wall studs for support. A stud finder helps locate them. If installing over a sink window, make sure there are studs or backing where shelves will go. Installing a ledger board might be needed.

Installation Tips and Tricks

Installing floating shelves is a relatively straightforward DIY project. Here are some tips:

• Use a level and pencil to mark bracket locations on the wall per your measurements.
• Drill pilot holes for brackets and affix them using a screwdriver. Make sure they are secure.
• Attach shelves to brackets following the manufacturer's instructions. Many use a ledge or hook system.
• Ensure shelves are level by adjusting bracket heights as needed. Test weight capacity before loading them up.

Concealing Brackets

For a true floating look, purchase concealed brackets. Or mount using cleats rather than full brackets. Painting brackets to match the wall also hides them.

Dealing with Windows and Obstacles

Use extra long brackets to clear windowsills. For plumbing or other obstructions, measure precisely and cut shelves to fit around them. Notch shelves or use spacer blocks to get things completely level.

Selecting Shelf Materials

Floating shelves come in a range of materials with different pros and cons:

• Wood - Warm and natural looking but prone to warping. Go for kiln-dried wood.
• Plywood - Affordable and long-lasting but edges need to be finished.
• Metal - Sleek and modern with industrial vibe but can be prone to scratches.
• Glass - Creates translucent floating effect but heaviest option and can shatter.

Finishes to Consider

The finish impacts the durability and water-resistance of shelves. Options include:

• Paint - Can be touched up but may need frequent repainting.
• Stain - Enhances wood grain but less protection from moisture.
• Oil-rubbed - Brings out richness of wood and provides waterproof coating.
• Lacquer - Very durable and water-resistant but shows imperfections.

Styling and Organizing Floating Shelves

Once shelves are installed, it's time for the fun part - filling them! A few styling tips:

• Use baskets or bins to corral smaller items like spices.
• Style decoratively with plants, artwork or accent pieces.
• Keep frequently used items within reach, like hand soap or scrub brushes.
• Change up the look seasonally or for holidays.
• Alternate items - decorative, then functional, then decorative.

Maintaining Airflow

Allow space between items to prevent moisture buildup which can lead to mildew. Make sure the area can air out fully.

Add Lighting

Install battery-operated or plug-in lights for extra illumination. Linked LED strips work great. Lighting adds both form and function.

Keep It Balanced

Try to evenly distribute weight so shelves don't end up lopsided. And wipe up spills quickly to avoid staining or damage.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Installing floating shelves is a DIY-friendly project with the right skills. But some scenarios may call for a professional:

• Easy DIY: Drywall over studs with simple layouts and ample clearances.
• Call a pro: Tricky layouts, overhead plumbing, electrical work needed, heavy objects, or valuable surfaces like tile or marble.

Professional Installation

Pros have specialized tools and experience hanging heavy shelves, working with tricky walls, and perfecting custom layouts. Costs typically range from $50 - $150 per hour.

Safety Considerations

While aesthetically pleasing, incorrectly installed shelves can pose hazards. Precautions include:

• Mounting over backsplash only, not directly onto drywall.
• Checking weight limits and not overloading shelves.
• Securing heavy objects with museum putty, velcro or other methods.
• Using water-resistant finishes.
• Allowing airflow to prevent mildew and moisture damage.

Preventing Injury From Falling Objects

Only keep lightweight decorative items on shelves over sinks and counters. Stow anything heavy or fragile in lower cabinets instead.

Child Safety

Use child locks to secure any cabinets under the shelves. Store cleaning supplies or other dangerous items out of reach of children.

Design Inspiration

From modern to farmhouse, here are some beautiful ways to implement floating shelves above kitchen sinks:

• Multi-level shelving with staggered heights and lengths.
• Mixing materials - wood shelves atop marble backsplash.
• Open shelves styled with plants, baskets and ceramic pieces.
• Glass shelves with built-in LED lighting.
• Rustic wood brackets with galvanized pipe shelves.

Incorporate Your Kitchen Style

Match your kitchen style - try industrial pipes for an urban loft, clean-lined brackets for modern, or rustic wood supports for a cozy farmhouse feel.

Make It a Focal Point

Use floating shelves, intriguing lighting fixtures and decorative tiles to draw attention to the sink area. Paint or finish the shelves in a bold, contrasting color.

Adding floating shelves over your kitchen sink maximizes unused space with style and storage. Carefully measure the area, choose complementary shelving materials, and use safety best practices during installation. Style shelves to suit your needs and kitchen aesthetic. Floating shelves bring visual interest, character, and utility to kitchens of all sizes when properly planned and installed. With some creativity, they can truly become a stunning focal point.