Blend closed storage with open shelving in media walls, reading nooks, and more.
Not all cabinetry belongs in the kitchen. In fact, some of the smartest, most beautiful storage lives in your living room, tucked behind closed doors and seamlessly integrated into your design.
Whether you’re building a modern media wall, creating a clutter-free open-concept space, or custom cabinetry offers the perfect balance of function and form—hiding the mess without sacrificing style.
Here’s how to use cabinetry to create hidden storage that feels intentional, sleek, and totally livable.
1. Start With a Dual-Purpose Layout
Great hidden storage is all about balance. You want the utility of closed storage and the personality of open display.
Design tip: Use the 70/30 rule
- 70% closed storage for things you want out of sight (remotes, wires, toys, games, office supplies)
- 30% open shelving for styling moments (books, objects, plants, art)
This keeps the space feeling clean without making it feel sterile.
2. Build a Media Wall That Works Hard (And Looks Good)
TV walls are prime real estate for smart cabinetry. The key is blending tech with design so the screen doesn’t dominate the room.
Smart media wall features:
- Floating base cabinets for hidden electronics and cables
- Tall side cabinets to store board games, books, or even barware
- Upper shelving for art and display
- Touch-latch or push-to-open doors to maintain a clean, hardware-free look
Bonus idea: Consider framing the TV with cabinetry to create a custom built-in look that feels architectural, not bulky.
3. Embrace Floor-to-Ceiling Storage Without the Bulk
Cabinetry can go big without looking heavy. The key? Layer it with texture, spacing, and contrast.
Design strategies:
- Mix wood cabinetry below with open white shelves above
- Vary shelf widths or heights for an organic feel
- Add architectural framing or vertical fluting for built-ins that feel intentional
- Choose flat-panel fronts or no-hardware doors for a clean, modern look
This makes floor-to-ceiling cabinetry feel architectural—not like a row of utility closets.
Storage That Disappears Into Design
Great living spaces feel open, calm, and curated—but that doesn’t mean they’re empty. With the right cabinetry, you can hide clutter, streamline function, and still create a room that feels effortless and elevated.
