Meg Ryan's simple display space for her modern farmhouse kitchen is pure perfection, and it is easy to achieve

We have been in awe of actress Meg Ryan's modern farmhouse home ever since we first laid eyes upon its expertly curated style. 

Designed by Monique Gibson, there is so much to admire about this kitchen diner, but it is the room's kitchen shelving that is perhaps the most captivating element. This decorative display might be simple to achieve, but when done right, it can have a profound effect on the entire space. 

Kitchen shelving, similar to Meg Ryan's below, is a great option if you are the proud owner of an impressive crockery collection, or are a keen cook who appreciates having ingredients close at hand. Having everything on display is not for the faint-hearted as it requires a certain amount of dedication to keep shelves looking smart and uncluttered. 

Good storage is essential, however, not everything needs to be hidden away. Decorative kitchen storage ideas and solutions can make a huge difference to your kitchen's look and feel. 

A cluster of simple floating shelves works particularly well in a kitchen where there may be a fair amount of closed cabinetry taking up space along the walls. They add an element of interest that draws the eye, all while helping to keep countertops clear.

Choose from floating shelves (without visible supports) to those with stylish brackets, from plate racks to cubby holes built into furniture. Here's why designers and decorators love the easy-to-recreate display in Meg Ryan's kitchen diner. 

Be they decorated with ceramics, vintage glassware, plants, or recipe books, shelves can be used to add individual style to a kitchen, as Mike Fetherston, design director of Hetherington Newman, explains. 

‘As kitchens are increasingly central to the home and where families come together for meals and to socialize, areas for display are important to personalize the space and add interest, giving a more relaxed and welcoming feel.’ 

For a stylized look, stack collections of your favorite crockery, line up fresh herbs and incorporate small pieces of art along a run of open shelving.

Shop the Meg Ryan kitchen edit

Finding beautiful display pieces for your kitchen is essential if you want to curate a decorate display to be proud of. Here, our experts share their favorite buys to help you on your way.