Shelf Styling 101

Aug 3
2 min read

Shelf Styling occurs in the midst of a project installation. After all the rugs and furniture exist in the space, our team’s next big task involves styling the entire home. We handle everything from organizing a client’s bar to placing flower arrangements, because every little detail counts when making a house a home.

From my conversations with friends, I realize that shelf styling is one of the most common home decorating struggles, and we’re here to help! Shall we start with those pesky empty shelves? Read on for Shelf Styling 101.

Cozy nook with bench, pillows, and a throw by a window. Nearby shelves hold books, decor, and framed photos. Bright, serene atmosphere.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

The first thing to consider when styling your shelves is in what room are they? Whether they’re in your living room, library, kitchen, or even your bathroom, their location will help determine what items will look best. In a library, for instance, a large majority of the shelves will likely be occupied by books, so choose decorative items such as bookends and urns that will fill in extra space. In a kitchen, copper pots, spices, and simple coffee mugs will look elegant alongside cookbooks and traditional decorative items.

Bookshelf with colorful books, a small plant, and a wooden box. Black shelves and wall with a lamp. Wooden surface with decor items.

Bright kitchen with light wood cabinets, marble countertop, flowers, and wooden chairs. Art and dishes are on the shelf, creating a fresh feel.

SHELF STYLING: BRING THE PERSONALITY

Our enjoyment of a space increases when we’re surrounded by pieces we love, so there’s no reason you shouldn’t incorporate some of your favorite personal items into your shelves. Small works of art, framed photos, and family heirlooms can all bring depth and personality to your arrangement. If you feel like you’re lacking styling pieces, hit up your favorite home retailers online, or arrange a COVID-friendly curbside pickup of your items. You can even order sets of books by color and subject from Half Price Books and Books by the Yard!

Kitchen shelves with copper bowls, white kettle, and candlesticks. Below, a vase with leaves, framed art, wooden tray, and bottles. Cozy vibe.

White stairway with wooden steps, bookshelf filled with books, art, and decor items, like vases and coral. Bright, minimalistic room.

BALANCE IT OUT

When creating an arrangement, you must consider the visual weight of each item to create a balanced look and feel. This can be created by incorporating pieces that are different colors, sizes, and textures. For instance, a large white item takes up less visual space than something tall and dark. As a result, placing the two items together creates balance. The same is true for balancing textural items with those that are smooth.

Arched shelves with books, vases, framed photo, and decorative items against a wooden backdrop. Neutral tones create a calm, elegant mood.

Cozy living room with beige sofa, mustard pillow, blue ottoman, and geometric rug. Colorful art on navy wall. Vase with red flowers.

LISTEN TO COCO

Coco Chanel said it best: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take at least one thing off.” This mantra should also be on your mind when decorating your shelves. The truth is, you probably have too many items crammed together, creating visual chaos. Often, less is more, and there’s nothing wrong with letting one or two items really shine! Give them space.

Elegant living room with gray tones, featuring a landscape mural, gray sofa, white shelving with vases, checkered chair, and glass table.

SHELF STYLING: TAKE YOUR TIME

Most importantly, don’t feel pressured to commit to an arrangement on the first attempt! If you have multiple shelves, try decorating one at a time, and walk away if you get overwhelmed. After all, you can always come back tomorrow and edit.

Wooden cabinet with glass doors displaying a baseball, a shoe, books, and a white vase. Rustic setting with warm tones.