Shakira is a celebrated force in the music industry, but a glimpse inside her kitchen suggests as much of a trendsetter in the interior world. The Colombian singer has officially taken minimalist kitchens to new heights – literally and metaphorically – after sharing her 'invisible' cabinets stretching to the ceiling while keeping all her possessions firmly out of sight.
These handle-less cabinets seamlessly blend into the singer's all-white kitchen: a space that serves as minimalist-lovers' dream. With its towering size, neutral coloring, and non-existent hardware, the cabinets could, at a glance, pass as Shakira's kitchen wall – and it's a look sure to catch on among minimalists.
In the footage, Shakira is seen mopping her kitchen rug while wearing high heels (a sentence I never thought I'd write, but I guess, why not?), and while we love this whole (albeit bizarre) set-up, we believe these cabinets deserve an honorable mention – and designers do, too.
'Discreet cabinets are a great choice because they allow you to have a uniform look while also providing storage, and, kitchens aside, they can be used in any type of room,' says New York-based designer Emma Beryl.
Emma Beryl is the founder of her eponymous design firm based in New York. After training at the New York School of Interior Design, Emma worked on an array of international projects before settling in the city. She was recently named as a top new designer to watch by Lonny Mag.
In all cases, including Shakira's, the cabinets serve both practical and aesthetic purposes – often serving as the perfect minimalist backdrop while offering ample storage space.
'Sometimes you can't find a good storage solution when you need it, so opting for discreet cabinets allows you to achieve the desired look while not compromising on the needs for the space,' Emma explains. 'It can keep the space organized while also looking clean and sleek.' And she's not alone in her support for this subtle kitchen trend.
'If you're all about that minimalist, modern design or you want the spotlight on your furniture, decor, or those jaw-dropping views & gardens outside, then cabinets that effortlessly blend in with their surroundings are your secret weapon,' adds designer Becky Shea.
'These sneaky cabinets work like chameleons, letting other important details shine while still keeping your stuff neatly tucked away.'
Becky Shea is a full-service interior designer and lifestyle entrepreneur in New York City. She co-founded her studio, Becky Shea Design, where she currently works as the creative director. Her work is rooted in her love for natural materials that celebrate sustainability and craftsmanship from the local artisan community.
To accentuate the look one step further, Becky says we could also integrate our doorways into the invisible design alongside our cabinets 'to hide powder rooms, closets or that secret Batcave [we've] dreamed of.'
We're sure this look will catch on in minimalist homes of all sizes – though we imagine the mopping in heels is slightly less likely to follow suit.
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