Hi all,

We're nearly wrapped up on our kitchen reno and now have to choose something for 2 exposed shelves that are next to the fridge. Having trouble coming up with something cost effective and balancing that with our contractor's advice.

Floors: Engineered White oak (SEE PIC)
Tile, counters: matte subway tile and LG Viaterra white quart
island counter: White oak butcher block

What type of shelf would you put there? The space 47" so with brackets we will not go right to the walls. We'd prefer either floating shelves or minimalist brackets such as http://www.westelm.com/products/basic-brackets-black-d181/

Our contractor was wary of doing two cut pieces of white oak, saying they will bow over time. Advantage would be that we can do them at 11"D and have room for plates if we want to. Something prefab from Ikea could work (the EKBY might fit) but the finishes aren't really great for what we have happening in the space. Love the idea of replicating the butcher block may blow our budget.

Would love your suggestions!