Oprah Winfrey's 'elegant' cabinets are gorgeous – and designers say this surprising detail makes the kitchen appear larger

 Oprah Winfrey could influence us to buy almost anything, and a recent peek into her kitchen has added glass cabinets to the list.

The world-famous talk show host took to Instagram to show off a fabulous charcuterie bar in her home, put together by Chef Sebastien Canonne and Chef Philippe Chevalier. The spread is laid over a long wooden table, and as the camera pans around the table, fans get a view into Oprah’s chic white kitchen.

Every part of the space is quietly luxurious. The golden hardwood floors, white paneled walls and ceilings are stylish and timeless. Oprah’s matte silver hardware and greenish marble countertops soften the straight lines of the room. Fresh flowers cover the dining table in the background, and a verdant yard shows through Oprah’s window. A textured glass pendant light casts a warm glow around the kitchen. Banks of glass cabinets show off Oprah’s beautiful collection of glassware and dishes.

According to expert interior designers, these glass cabinets can be credited for much of the stylishness of the look. New York-based designer Artem Kropvinsky says ‘using glass cabinets in a kitchen brings a level of elegance and sophistication that's hard to achieve with other materials. They have the unique ability to create an illusion of space and openness, adding depth to even the smallest kitchen. They also provide a neat, transparent view of your dishwasher, encouraging organization and adding an unexpected design element.’

Artem Kropovinsky

Founder of NYC-based interior design firm, Arsight, Artem Kropovinsky has a decade of extensive global design experience, connecting a cohesive, collaborative team of passionate professionals, who work on interior projects in the U.S. and worldwide. 

Artem suggests that ‘If your kitchen receives a lot of natural light, glass cabinets can further amplify this effect. They can beautifully reflect sunlight, contributing to a bright, airy ambiance,’ Ben Gold, interior designer and founder of Recommended Home Buyers adds that glass cabinets are a great option because ‘they allow homeowners to display their prized kitchenware.’ By playing up the natural light present in her kitchen and filling her cabinets with beautiful items, Oprah makes her kitchen appear larger, brighter, and more elevated.

When styling glass cabinets, design experts recommend decorating with an eye for detail. Ben Gold says ‘my top tips revolve around creating a harmonious balance between form and function. Incorporating a mix of decorative and practical items, such as colorful plates, glassware, and neatly arranged kitchen essentials, can bring personality and charm to the cabinets. By expertly blending aesthetics and organization, I ensure that each glass cabinet becomes a focal point that complements the kitchen's overall theme.’ 

Artem Kropvinsky further recommends being very intentional about what you choose to feature in your glass cabinets. He cautions ‘Try not to overcrowd your cabinets. Keep it simple and purposeful. Use the rule of threes - an odd number of items is more visually pleasing.’ Follow these tips and you’re one step closer to living the charmed life of Oprah Winfrey.

If you want to recreate her iconic kitchen in your own home, shop the edit below.