There are countless ways to style shelves, but achieving that curated look can be a challenge. Knowing what to display and where to place it can quickly become overwhelming. But fear not! With a few insider tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful vignettes. So, let's dive into the best shelf decorating ideas to get you started!
Shelf Decorating Ideas & Quick Tips
You can make your open storage look well-designed even if you're not sure how to decorate shelves. With a few simple and modern shelf decor ideas and tips, you'll be able to create magazine-worthy displays.
Start with a Blank Slate
Often, people accumulate a variety of items over the years and stack them on their living room shelves. As a result, there is a lack of theme and organization. The most important step is to tidy up! Remove all the shelf decor items and assess how much space you have. Always start with a blank canvas before giving a makeover to your shelf.
Disguise Clutter
Once you have an idea of the available space, figure out what type of storage ideas you need. You may still have unsightly items that need a place to call home. Baskets and boxes are great for storing odds and ends, giving your shelves a streamlined appearance.
Have a Visual Balance
One of the key bookshelf decor ideas is to achieve a balanced look. This doesn't mean using the same decor items. Instead, use decor items that have similar lengths, volumes, or colors to create visual harmony. For example, a tall lamp on one side of the shelf can be balanced by long candles or a vase on the other side. Let your creativity flow and think outside the box!
Need some help bringing your favorite shelf decorating ideas to life? Then, schedule your Free Interior Design Consultation for expert assistance getting started today!
Bathroom Shelf Decor
Customized Storage Solution
Bathroom shelf decor can be simple and effortless. Opt for a customized cubby solution that can double as seating. Rolled or folded towels are a practical yet elegant solution that adds a touch of luxury to your bathroom.
Add a Pinch of Greenery
Including potted plants and succulents can bring a fresh feel to small bathroom shelf decorations. Just a hint of greenery can make your bathroom design look brighter and more lively. For added drama, consider hanging plants over the shower or adding fragrant flowers.
Introduce Texture to the Shelf
Effective shelf decorating ideas in the bathroom include using a variety of textures. A bamboo basket for towels creates the perfect boho shelf decor, while wooden trays, glass bottles, or picture frames add a personal touch.
Living Room Shelf Ideas
Create a Cohesive Ambiance
Every home is different, and every wall unit is unique. So, when it comes to living room shelf ideas, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Look around and find pieces that tell the story of your interior design. For example, if you have a beach house, use corals and shells on a wall shelf to capture the essence of your home. You can even use a glass jar filled with sand from the beaches you've visited.
Include Decor with Varying Shapes
Bookshelf decorating is all about embracing inclusivity, whether it's in terms of color, shape, size, or texture. Broaden your decor game and include objects made with different materials like glass, ceramic, metal, or acrylic. Consider books, candles, pictures, art, sentimental pieces, travel collectibles, and everything else that embodies your unique style.
Create Groupings
As a rule of thumb in design, odd-numbered groupings are considered the most aesthetically pleasing. For example, on one shelf, you can have two candles along with a picture frame. Similarly, a figurine, stacked books, and a decorative bowl can enhance the overall look of your shelves.
Kitchen Shelf Decor
Create Sections
Smartly treating kitchen shelf decor can prevent it from becoming overwhelming. Break up the space and create visual sections for simplicity. Divide the space according to utility to achieve a modern shelf decor in your kitchen.
Introduce Unique Elements
Kitchen shelf decor doesn't have to be limited to bowls and glasses. Have some fun and include quirky elements to give your kitchen a cool look. Consider creating a spice rack, adding a vintage teapot, or including a glass jar for wine corks.
Make Your Kitchen Garden
If you don't have enough backyard space for a kitchen herb garden, why not make one inside! Shelf decorating ideas for the kitchen can include potted herbs and plants, adding freshness and fragrance to your cooking space. Plant thyme, basil leaves, or rosemary, and enjoy the convenience of having fresh herbs at your fingertips.
Bedroom Shelving Ideas
Alternating Book Stacks
Bookshelf decor ideas shouldn't be limited to the living room. Having a bookshelf in the bedroom is a practical way to store and display your favorite books. For added style, stack books of similar color tones or sizes. Don't shy away from creating horizontal piles as well.
Make it a Memorabilia
The bedroom is a personal space that should reflect your personality. Incorporate family pictures, travel finds, and personalized accessories into your bedroom shelf decor. Make the wall unit a reflection of your unique taste and style.
Keep it Minimal
When it comes to styling shelves in the bedroom, less is more. Be selective in what you choose to display, and don't feel the need to fill every space. Since the bedroom is a place of relaxation, a clutter-free environment is best. Choose pieces with a cohesive look for a tranquil atmosphere.
Need more than just shelf decorating ideas?
If you're looking for a styled look for your home but aren't sure where to begin, then schedule your Free Interior Design Consultation to get started with the finest interior designers today!
Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12/13, 14, 15, 16/17, 18, 19, 20
