In contemporary kitchens, the less is more principle is embodied in the “less cabinets” trend — an approach that abandons closed upper cupboards in favor of open, airy compositions that connect seamlessly with the rest of the home. Emerging from cutting-edge interior design movements, this style embraces open shelving to transform the kitchen into a fluid, customisable environment, where functionality and aesthetics coexist without compromise.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins and inspirations behind the trend that’s reshaping modern kitchens, examining its key advantages. We’ll also discover how Faber’s Modular and T-Shelf models perfectly express the growing preference for cleaner, more open spaces — where the hood becomes a functional, yet never intrusive, centerpiece.
“LESS CABINETS” TREND: OPEN SHELVING AND FLUID SPACES
The “fewer cabinets” philosophy is not a temporary whim but the natural evolution of broader macro-trends such as open shelving and hybrid kitchen-living spaces. By removing the closed volumes of tall cupboards, the visual continuity expands the space, ideal for urban open-plan settings where the kitchen dialogues directly with the living area.
Imagine compositions featuring suspended shelves in solid wood or raw metal displaying elegant tableware, transparent spice jars, or culinary art pieces — turning every corner into a small stage.
Inspired by viral Instagram imagery, the preference for “less cabinets” captures the essence of modern living: breathable spaces that highlight carefully selected objects, inviting a balanced creative order. This flexibility allows easy rearrangement — from an improvised brunch to a formal dinner — without disrupting the overall harmony of the room.
The most popular design directions draw inspiration from New York lofts and Scandinavian kitchens, where lightness prevails over clutter. In fact, recent statistics confirm that around 70% of new projects focus on open compositions that visually expand and liberate perceived space.
COOKER HOODS AS DESIGN ELEMENTS
In this context, cooker hoods are no longer just technical equipment — they become functional sculptures. Faber’s T-Shelf and Modular models exemplify perfect integration with the less cabinets aesthetic: suspended forms that replace upper cabinets while providing built-in shelves for cookbooks, herbs or decorative accents.
The T-Shelf, with its inverted T-shaped structure, hangs elegantly above the hob, combining strong extraction (up to 800 m³/h) with a suspended design that doesn’t weigh down the composition.
The Modular hoods, on the other hand, allow full customisation: composable modules adapting to linear or island layouts, equipped with invisible filters and integrated LED lighting.
This duality — invisible extraction + visible shelving — resolves the minimalist dilemma: technical power need not mean aesthetic sacrifice. The hood becomes a central design focus, structuring the entire kitchen without overwhelming it.
FEWER CABINETS: ADVANTAGES OF MINIMAL DESIGN
Choosing the “less cabinets” solution brings tangible benefits across different levels:
• Visual lightness — Without opaque blocks of cupboards, natural light bounces off surfaces creating depth and harmony; in kitchens under 10 m², perceived space increases by up to 25%.
• Spatial continuity — Free walls encourage open flow, ideal for dynamic families or integrated home‑office setups.
• Organisational practicality — Open shelves promote discipline, give instant access to ingredients and tools, and significantly reduce preparation times.
• Quick cleaning — Without doors, drawers or hidden corners, cleaning becomes effortless: a simple wipe and it’s done.
• Long‑term flexibility — Open shelving means the kitchen style can be refreshed seasonally, just by moving objects — no structural work or extra expense required.
HOW FABER INTERPRETS THE “LESS CABINETS” TREND AT HOME
As a pioneer in design–technology integration, Faber translates the less cabinets mindset into tailor‑made solutions, turning the trend into airy, functional kitchens where the hood becomes the visual and operational centerpiece — eliminating bulky upper units and lightening the space.
Imagine a T‑Shelf suspended above a central island: the built‑in shelf becomes the perfect place for fresh basil plants, spices within reach, cutting boards or bottle holders — while powerful extraction captures vapors directly at the source without disturbing the room’s aesthetics.
In linear or corner kitchens, the Modular models adapt effortlessly to L‑shape or parallel layouts, with expandable modules that keep everything organised with minimalist order.
Practical ideas on how to achieve the look:
Pair hoods with open glass shelving for a light, transparent look that lets the environment flow, or with curved natural‑wood shelves for a warmer, organic feel. The result is a slimmer, more dynamic kitchen — where Faber hoods dominate with smart technology (such as self‑cleaning filters) and require no tedious maintenance or excess bulk.
These are living, breathing spaces, where aesthetics and practicality coexist in perfect harmony.
CONCLUSION
In an era where kitchens have become domestic stages, Faber hoods stand as symbols of modernity — no longer hidden, but icons that fuse refined design, cutting‑edge technology and infinite personalisation.
With T‑Shelf and Modular, the less cabinets trend becomes everyday reality: light, efficient, contemporary.
Ready to free your space?