Shelf styling is an art form in and of itself. Built ins, bookcases and open shelving are more popular than ever, but the problem with all of those open spaces is that they have to be filled. When styling shelves, it takes time and practice to get the proper balance and visual appeal just right. When executed correctly, the results can make a pretty dramatic style statement.

PLEASE, PLEASE do not run out to your favorite discount big box design store and buy a bunch of baskets and vases to fill up your shelves, built ins and bookcases. Your home is a reflection of you and should, in turn, express that. No one is an empty basket, I promise.

Shelves filled with all brand new, generic items can look very impersonal and bland. Try to refrain from using too many basic vases/sculptures, blank books, empty baskets, or candles.

So, that being said, what should you include in your shelf styling?

• Collections – My thoughts on collections are a whole other blog post – but if you have a collection, displaying them together thoughtfully can be very striking. Just make sure to choose only your best and most visually pleasing pieces and don’t go overboard.
• Decorative Objects – Items that are unique and special to you are perfect pieces to display in open shelving. These items provide depth and interest.
• Storage – Boxes, baskets, or bins with a purpose. Don’t just plug them in as filler.
• Photos – yes, photos of people. People that you actually know – in real life. Some designers feel that decor should be devoid of anything personal, but I think displaying photographs is one of the best ways to keep memories alive and stir up conversation.
• Framed art – a cute vintage painting or original artwork can add color and playfulness to your shelving.
• Books – if you are a book collector, this is easy for you. If not, try collecting books in a specific genre such as cookbooks, children’s books, autobiographies, etc. – or even by color. You can find a great selection of inexpensive old books at antique stores and flea markets.
• Something green – whether it’s dead, alive, or fake. Having something organic like a plant, driftwood, or flower adds life and color to otherwise pretty rigid and cold shelf items.
• Empty Space – don’t be afraid to leave it empty! There is something called negative space. Not every shelf should be jam packed with stuff. Negative space provides proper balance that creates visual appeal and actually shifts focus to the items you have on display.

What if you don’t have any collections or cool artifacts or antiques or items from travel or inherited valuables?

DON’T PANIC!

• Shop your home. You may be surprised what you already have laying around the house
• Scour local thrift stores and flea markets.
• Search eBay and etsy.
• Go green – low maintenance plants are an easy and refreshing choice.
• Think outside the box. Everyday items like jars or teacups can make a major impact when styled properly.
• Take your time – Rome wasn’t built and a day and neither is styling your home. With time and experience, you will begin to gather items you really love and enjoy in your space.

Are you in need of professional interior design services to get things just right? I am here to help! Contact me at tiffany.inghram@gmail.com for all your interior design needs.