I have open kitchen shelves and zero patience for ugly storage – these are the only storage containers I use to maintain my kitchen's modern rustic appeal

It's time to say goodbye to unattractive plastic kitchen storage containers and hello to these charmingly rustic alternatives

Open pine shelving in modern kitchen space with accessories and tableware
(Image credit: Living with Lolo, LifeCreated Photography)

Open shelving can make a kitchen feel light, airy, and spacious – until those shelves inevitably start overflowing with mismatched food storage containers and miscellaneous kitchenware. I know this all too well. My modern rustic kitchen has a section of open shelves that can quite often end up overrun with plastic storage containers that detract from the style of my space.

If you're like me, and have had enough of ugly storage containers ruining the vibe, you've come to the right place. I've spent hours searching for the best containers that not only promise organization, but lean into the ever-appealing modern rustic style. From fluted glass jars to metal and wood baskets, these stylish kitchen storage containers are charming and attractive – so much so, you'll be proud to have them on display on your kitchen shelves.

While there are countless kitchen storage ideas out there, I've learned that not all storage solutions are created equal. Below, I've found six stylish storage containers that do just that. These options embrace the modern rustic aesthetic and prioritize organization.


Open shelving can add so much to a kitchen, but I have found that the balance of form and function needs to be spot on for them to work. You want them to look good, of course, but they can be all aesthetic and not add anything practical to the space. I have found the easiest solution for maintaining this balance is chic storage, which does the job but also looks beautiful and matches your kitchen aesthetic.

Devin Toolen
Style Editor

Devin Toolen is a New York-based Style Editor for Homes & Gardens. After achieving her Bachelor’s Degree at Villanova University, Devin moved to Paris, France, to obtain her Master’s Degree at Parsons School of Design. Upon returning to the United States, Devin began working in the media industry with Cosmopolitan Magazine, where she wrote trend-driven fashion stories and assisted on set for many photoshoots, and later Livingetc, where she wrote interior design stories and assisted with the magazine’s social media pages. She has an appreciation for every aspect of personal style – from the clothes we wear to the design of our homes. In her spare time, Devin enjoys embroidery and antique shopping in the city.

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