The Beginner's Guide to Shelf-Styling

Shelf-styling is a skill that will allow you to take any space from drab to FAB in minimal time and with minimal expense.

While we’ll be discussing “shelves” in this blog, all of this info can easily be applied to any mantle, nook, or ledge you come across with minimal adjustment.

These are the six basic elements that we recommend starting with as a basis for styling the shelves in your space. Once you know the basics, there is no limit to what you can use to liven up your shelves & ledges!

1. Books

Books are the “little black dress” of the styling game: you can never have enough and they just ALWAYS work.

Books can be used as a styling feature themselves, by being displayed in an ombre pattern, in a color family or monochromatically.

Alternatively, books make the BEST risers for other decor pieces when laid on their side! Too short? Add another book. Too tall? Find a skinnier book.

Depending on how you use them, you’ll choose the books you use based on color, size, topic or title. I love popping a couple of books into the styling plan whose titles speak to the client’s personalities or interests. It adds a subtle personalization and can be a good conversation starter when guests stop to notice. For a clean look, we recommend using only hardcovered books without their dust jackets.

2. Candles or Vases

Candles and vases can both be used to add height, color, and texture to the landscape. Often times we will use them interchangeably, sticking an air plant on top of a candlestick or putting a candle atop a narrow-mouthed vase. Candlesticks can also make great risers and vases can be used with or without plants in them.

Don’t let yourself be limited by the “intended purpose” of an object if you see a way that it could be used differently!

3. Framed Artwork

Artwork is a fun addition because it can make such a big impact in your space! Choose small, free-standing pieces to add pops of interest or choose large pieces that can be leaned against the wall to fill space and draw the eye upward. This a is another great opportunity to showcase things that you love, interests, passions and hobbies. We love Minted.com for customized pieces that won’t break the bank. That being said, this is a place where people often opt to bring in the experts. For those without a strong design aesthetic, it may be best to work with a designer to find pieces that are meaningful but also accent and coordinate with the design of the space as a whole.

4. Plants

The greenery is what really brings life and character into the room. With it, you can add height above the shelf or lengthen down below the shelf using a beautiful, cascading plant. Each plant is like it’s own little character on the “stage” of your shelf. While live plants are fabulous, we know that it’s not always possible or practical to use them indoors. If you do opt for faux, be sure to buy GREAT quality products from places like Nearly Natural or The Sill.

5. Decorative Objects

Now here’s where all of the rules kind of go by the wayside… Choosing decorative objects is really subjective. Find the things that speak to you. But the only rule is - you must EDIT. You’ve want thingamabobs? We’ve got plenty! But what we don’t want to see is whozits and whatzits galore. There are so many unique and beautiful objects to choose from that it is very easy to get carried away.

Depending on the design of the space, this might be a great way to incorporate vintage pieces that you have never quite found a spot for or to display a couple sentimental items that bring you joy. Or perhaps you’d want to use a few seasonal items and swap them out through the year to keep things fresh. If you want to add some new items to the lineup, CB2.com is our go-to site for fun decor. Choose items that create varied height, finish and texture within the array. Have fun with this step!

6. Mirrors

Mirrors are always a great addition to small and/or dark spaces. Placing a well-sized mirror on your shelf can make your whole space feel bigger and brighter in an instant. Choose a frame that complements the design of your existing space and you’re good to go!

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links meaning I may make a [very] small commission if you decide to make a purchase using those link, at no additional cost to you.

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