Stylise Your Shelving
Styling shelves or bookcases is an art form that, when done well, can really elevate a space. A simple rearrange or declutter can take any unloved storage space and give it a new, sophisticated, and elegant lease of life.
In this guide, we aim to give you some simple steps to follow that will help you create that designer look in your own home.
Step #1:
Gather Items
As with most tasks, its important to know what you’re working with. Gather all the items you want to display on your shelving. Whether that be frames, vases, storage boxes, books, baskets, or personal trinkets, its important to gather more than you think you will use. This allows for different options when certain items just aren’t quite right. And remember, if you don’t love it, don’t use it!
Step #2:
Start Big
Start with your biggest items. These act as focal anchor points for the shelving, and you can build depth from these points. Don’t centralize too many pieces else the shelves will become too regimented and will not look as effective. Placing larger pieces at the top of the shelving compliments the perspective and draws the eyes upwards to make the room feel taller.
Step #3:
Create Layers
Coffee table books aren’t exclusively for coffee tables! Use them laying down and stacked to create layers and add some small items on top to add a little pop.
Take note of similar items and try to distribute them across the shelving, you don’t want too much of the same material or texture in one area. Natural textures are great at adding contrast, warmth, and texture to your shelving, so use woven baskets or sculptures to add more depth.
Step #4:
Verticals
Adding vertical elements such as tall vases, jugs and books adds a different scope and texture to the shelving, helping make the shelving feel larger. Stand reading book up and display their spines, but if they’re not beautiful simply turn them around.
Step #5:
Artwork & Frames
Add in some personal photos or your favourite artwork pieces. Its important, however, to not cluster these all on one shelf as it can be detrimental to the overall aesthetic.
Lean artwork against the back of the shelving and place small items in front to add depth.
Step #6:
Groupings
Group 2 or 3 complimentary items together, paying attention to height, textures, and colours to add the finishing touches. Don’t be afraid to leave white spaces, as these allow the eyes to rest and help draw your eyes to the carefully curated groupings
Step #7:
Step Back
As with most things, we rarely get things right first time. The same applies here, so its important to step back, take a break and re-evaluate your work. This will allow you to see the shelving with fresher eyes and help you pick up on any areas that may need a rethink. Check that areas don’t look over accessorized (clutter is not a good look!) and that your shelves aren’t too regimented.
Stepping back also allows you to assess the space around each shelf too, which can help you spot areas of similarity.
Remember, the goal is to create a moment on each shelf which can stand alone and be beautiful, but works seamlessly with the overall aesthetic.