Shelf Styling Ideas

Looking for shelf styling ideas and wondering where to start when decorating open shelving in your home? Re-styling existing shelves is a creative way to revitalize any room – simply changing books, adding or removing objects, or completely transforming a bookcase.

Designing open shelving can be daunting when you first begin, as it is similar to what one experiences when facing a blank canvas. It is also like piecing together a creative puzzle where everything falls into place when you start. Although styling shelving can seem straightforward, there are design tips you can implement that will help you to be able to confidently add visual appeal to any shelf – no matter your style.

Regarding styling shelving, there are a few key things to remember. First, consider the function of the shelves – are they primarily for storage or display? This will help determine what items to place on the shelves. Consider adding decorative objects such as vases, framed photos, or small sculptures if the shelves are for display. If the shelves are primarily for storage, opt for baskets or bins to keep things organized.

Consider the room’s overall aesthetic once you have determined the shelves’ function. Do you want the shelves to blend in or stand out? If you want them to blend in, choose shelving that matches the color of the walls or surrounding furniture.

Shelf Styling Design Tips

1.  Work from a Blank Canvas

No matter the size of shelving you are working with or the location in your home, be sure to empty the shelves to start with a clean slate. It is the best way to keep the process simple and organized.

Begin by laying out all items that would work in your shelving design. Take a mental inventory of what you are dealing with and start by grouping objects you feel would work well together. Note individual pieces’ height, width, pattern, and textures as you experiment with grouping them.

Styling Arched Shelving Framing Fireplace
Image courtesy of Pure Salt Interiors

2.  Choose a Theme

Choosing a guidepost or theme for styling in your home is helpful. Whether you choose to display items that evoke a calming vibe with a neutral palette of whites and creams or looking to create a dynamic design with vibrant patterns and color – a theme sets the parameters to help chaperone you toward your goal.

A Series of 3 Open Shelving Units Provide Opportunity for Texture & Pattern
Image courtesy of KBG Design

3.  Switch Up Size & Scale

Once you have pulled an assortment of objects for your shelves, it is time to think about how their size and scale will work together. The most visually pleasing shelves combine large, medium, and small pieces that play off each other and create an exciting sense of variety. To achieve this mix, place your largest objects first and then layer them in medium and smaller pieces. This process makes it easier once you start styling, and it helps you to see the common thread in your pieces and consider what you may want to add to your collection.

You want to fill only part of the shelf with objects. Instead, carefully place your favorite pieces – and give them some breathing room.

Elegant & Sophisticated Feature Cabinets
Image courtesy of: Marriane Simon Design

4.  Keep Things Balanced & Group Strategically

Much of shelving design is intuitive, and it helps to take a step back and view the progress you are making as you add specific items.

The lead stylist of Studio McGee consistently views her work from different angles – “I think about shelves individually when they are on either side of the fireplace, and then I step back to look at them as a whole. I want them to complete each other but also be able to stand on their own. It’s all about balance.” – Kristine Metcalf, stylist.

A Large Shelving Unit with Well-Placed Decorative Pieces
Image Courtesy of Studio McGee

5.  Group in Three

Grouping in threes is a golden design rule, as odd numbers are more appealing and effective than even-numbered groupings. Although three is the magic number, 5, 7, or 9 also works. Try grouping similar items, such as candles, vases, or books. Varying the heights of these objects adds visual interest.

Open Shelving Designed by Pure Salt Interiors
Image courtesy of Pure Salt Interiors

6.  Ground the Look with Substantial Pieces

Studio McGee suggests using your most important items to create focal points to style around. Vases, baskets, plants, bowls, art, or other large decor items are perfect for adding substance and visual weight to a built-in. They typically like to stagger these items so that they do not stack on top of each other and are not right next to each other, which helps create balance.

Stylist secret: It helps to place all of your similar objects simultaneously—for example, style all your vases, baskets, etc. 

Shelving Decor that Coordinates with the Color Palette of the Room
Image Courtesy of Kelsey Leigh Design

7.  Inject Sentiment

Poignant pieces add depth and soul to your styling and recall fond memories and unique places. Sentimental details add character that makes the styling of the shelves in your home – truly your own.

Simple & Elegant Shelving Design
Image Courtesy of Whittney Parkinson

8.  Break up Textures and Tones

Blending textures and colors can be intricate, as you want to ensure a manageable amount of the same thing in one area. Avoid an entire shelf of art, ceramics, or vintage finds and spread things out.

A Shelving Display in Neutral Tones
Image courtesy of Mindy Gayer

9.  Bottom to Top Shelf Styling Ideas

Locating the largest and bulkiest items on the unit’s bottom shelf is essential when decorating shelving. Stack lighter items as you go to each higher shelf. This provides a grounded and balanced feel to the shelf and the room. It also makes sure your unit is not top-heavy.

10.  Choose the Shelving that Works in Your Space

Think about the overall style of your space and choose shelves that complement it. You might opt for sleek, modern shelves if your space is contemporary or rustic distressed shelves if your space is more rustic. Feel free to mix and match different types of shelves. Combining open shelves with closed cabinets or drawers can add visual interest and organize your space. With these tips in mind, you can create open shelving that is both functional and stylish.

A Dramatic Shelving Display in Black & White
Image courtesy of Devon Grace Interiors

A Dramatic Shelving Display in Black & White
Image courtesy of Devon Grace Interiors

How to Choose Objects for Open Shelving

When choosing objects for open shelving, it’s essential to consider both form and function. Start by selecting visually appealing items that add interest to the space, such as decorative vases, framed photos, or unique sculptures. However, consider the practicality of the things you choose. 

For example, if you’re using open shelving in a kitchen, consider displaying your most frequently used cooking tools or favorite cookbooks. In a living room, you might opt for a mix of decorative and functional objects, such as books, candles, and a vase of fresh flowers. Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance between style and utility, creating a cohesive and visually appealing display that enhances the overall look and feel of the room.

How Many Items Should You Put on a Shelf?

When arranging items on the shelves, try to balance out the visual weight of the objects. This means placing larger items towards the bottom and smaller items towards the top. You can also create visual interest by varying the heights of the things or grouping similar items.

Finally, feel free to change up the items on the shelves occasionally. This will keep things fresh and prevent the space from feeling stagnant. With these tips in mind, styling your shelving can be a breeze!

What is the Triangle Rule to Shelf Styling?

The triangle rule is a popular shelf styling technique that involves arranging decor items triangularly. This means placing the tallest item at the back, medium-sized items in the middle, and smaller items at the front. This creates a visually appealing and balanced display that draws the eye in. When using the triangle rule to style your shelves, it’s important to consider color, texture, and spacing.

What is a rule of thumb for Decorating Shelves?

The basic rule for decorating and organizing bookshelves is one-third of books, one-third of accessories, and one-third of empty space per shelf. If you need more storage, fill the bottom shelf with identical boxes or baskets.

The number of items you should put on a shelf largely depends on the size and weight of the things you are trying to store. It’s essential to ensure that the shelf can support the weight of the items without sagging or breaking. In general, it’s a good idea to aim for a maximum of 25-30 pounds per linear foot of shelf space. Additionally, consider the spacing between each item to ensure they are not overcrowded and can be easily accessed. Ultimately, the goal is to create a functional, organized storage solution that meets your needs.

Wood Shelf Styling Ideas

Styling a wood shelf can be a fun and creative way to add personality and functionality to any room. To start:

1. Consider the overall theme and color scheme of the room.
2. If you want the shelf to blend in, try painting it the same color as the wall.
3. Opt for a bold contrasting color if you want it to stand out.

Next, think about the items you want to display on the shelf. Choose items that share a common color or theme for a cohesive look. For example, if you’re displaying books, try arranging them by color or genre. If you’re displaying plants, choose ones that have similar leaf shapes or colors.

When arranging the items on the shelf, consider varying the heights and textures for visual interest. Use bookends or small decorative objects to anchor the display and create a focal point.

Finally, keep the shelf open. Leave some space between items to keep the display from looking cluttered. And remember, the beauty of a wood shelf is that it can be easily updated and rearranged as your style and needs change.

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