Etagere

An étagère is a practical open shelving unit that lets you store your things neatly while keeping them visible. You can easily use this piece of furniture in the living room, kitchen, bathroom or toilet. In this collection, you’ll find étagères in different sizes, materials and designs, so you can easily choose a model that suits your space and how you use it.

Why choose an étagère?

An étagère has open shelves or compartments, which gives it a lighter look than a closed cabinet. That makes it ideal for smaller spaces or places where you want extra storage without adding a heavy piece of furniture. Think of towels in the bathroom, provisions in the kitchen or decorative items in the living room.

Many people choose an étagère because you can quickly grab what you need, keep an overview and maintain a tidy-looking space. This type of furniture is also often easy to move. That makes it convenient if you like to change your layout every now and then.

What do you use an étagère for?

In the bathroom or toilet

Here, a narrow or tall model is often the most practical. You make use of the room’s height and keep the floor clear. Use the shelves for towels, toilet rolls, care products or a basket with smaller items. In a corner, a compact model works especially well because it makes use of otherwise wasted space.

In the kitchen

In the kitchen, an open cabinet is handy for tableware, storage jars or mugs you use often. Combine an étagère with items from the tableware collection, for example, place a row of mugs on it or give teapots a fixed spot. Looking for more practical items for this space? Then also take a look at the kitchen collection.

In the living room

In the living room, you can use an étagère for books, vases, candle holders or storage boxes. By alternating open and closed elements, the whole look stays calm and organised. Prefer a few larger items over lots of small loose accessories.

Buying guide: which étagère suits you?

Choose the right size

First measure the spot where the furniture will stand. Pay attention not only to width and height, but also to depth. In narrow spaces, a shallow model is often more comfortable. Under a window or sloping roof, a lower étagère may fit better.

Consider how you’ll use it

Will you mainly use the cabinet for towels, provisions or decoration? For heavier items, a sturdy frame is important. For accessories or small products, you may prefer a lighter model with an open look.

Choose a material that suits the space

Metal often creates a cleaner, lighter look. Wood feels warmer and combines easily with other furniture. In humid spaces, it’s smart to pay close attention to the finish and maintenance, so the furniture stays looking neat for longer.

Think about open or partly closed

If you want everything on show, choose a fully open étagère. If you also have items you’d rather keep out of sight, then a model with a cabinet section or baskets is a practical choice.

Tips for styling and combining

Arrange your things in layers. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter accessories at the top. Work with groups of two or three and leave some empty space too, so the shelves don’t look overcrowded. In the kitchen, it creates a polished look if you coordinate your tableware, mugs and teapot by colour or material.

Want more ideas for a calm layout? Then also read styling tableware and vases. For a light, simple look at home, this inspiration is also useful: enamel tableware at home.

A piece of furniture with a long history

The étagère has existed since the 18th century and originally comes from France. While it used to be mainly a decorative piece of furniture, today it is especially loved as a practical open shelving unit for everyday use. It’s exactly that combination of function and style that still makes this piece so popular.

Frequently asked questions about étagères

What size étagère do I need?

That depends on the space and what you want to place on it. Measure the available area carefully and take walking space into account. In a narrow bathroom or toilet, a tall and shallow model often works best.

Is an étagère suitable for the bathroom?

Yes, as long as you choose a material and finish that are suitable for a humid space. Also make sure there is enough ventilation and don’t leave wet items to dry on the shelves for too long.

What can you place on an open cabinet without it looking messy?

Choose a mix of practical items and a few decorative pieces. Work with baskets, stacks of towels, tableware or jars in similar colours. Also leave some open space between the items on purpose.

What is more practical: wood or metal?

Wood gives a warmer look and suits many interiors well. Metal often looks lighter and is practical in modern or compact spaces. The best choice depends on the room, how you’ll use it and your other furniture.

Can an étagère also stand in the kitchen?

Definitely. An étagère is especially useful for tableware, mugs, storage jars or cookbooks. Just make sure the shelves are easy to clean if you place them near the cooking area.