Shelf Styling 101: Creating a Curated Look for Your Open Shelving
There’s a lot to love about open shelving: it can showcase your favorite collections, it’s functional and fashionable, and it ultimately provides the flexibility that we all desire. What’s holding you back from creating that enviable, Instagram-worthy shelf space? You may be intimidated by the pressure to produce a perfectly balanced appearance, or maybe you’re unsure of how to mix and match accessories. Follow these shelf-styling do’s and don’ts and you will be on your way to creating a head-turning vignette!
Do: Mix and Layer
Your space should reflect your story. So, what story do you want to tell? Learning how to mix and layer a variety of items on your open shelves is key to ensuring that the narrative of your space is beautiful and balanced. The first step is to organize your accents into odd-numbered groups and utilize different heights to create depth to achieve an organic, staggered appearance. You can use books as a platform and place other items on top or around them. You can also stand books vertically to add height to your accent groupings. On top of layering different heights, you should also play around with a variety of patterns, textures, finishes, and colors. For example, if you have a wooden or vintage piece, think about adding a brass decoration, a metal frame, or even some greenery!
Don’t: Prioritize Clutter or Overdo the Symmetry
You might look at someone else’s open shelving and think, “Wow, there’s a lot going on.” Here’s the bottom line: a dynamic look is okay, but clutter is not. Listen to your gut; keep whatever brings you joy or tells your story and toss (or move) the rest. Try to fill your shelves to about 80% capacity and keep that extra 20% as “breathing room.” It’s also important to make sure that you don’t turn your open shelves into a perfectly symmetrical architectural masterpiece (there’s such a thing as too matchy-matchy). Let your personal style and organizational needs overflow into your open shelving arrangements in a natural and visually balanced way. Do you have a green thumb? Create your own plant-filled sanctuary. Do you collect local art? Open shelving is a great way to highlight your favorite pieces.
Do: Be True to
Your Style
The best way to create a curated look with your open shelving is to simply be true to your style. What accessories and decorations bring you joy? What items do you want to showcase or be easily accessible? What sentimental objects best tell your story? Find what makes you feel at home and stick to it–whether it’s accessories with a vintage aesthetic or accents made of organic materials. It’s also important to remember that you can switch the style of your open shelving anytime you want! As your personal style changes and you collect new memories, your open shelving can grow and change with you.