creating inspired spaces
Style Guide: How to Style Shelves
April 30, 2021
We love styling shelves – it may be one of our favourite things to style, but can be tricky! Styling and restyling shelves is a great way to mix up your space and freshen things up every now and then so it shouldn’t have to be intimidating. We have created a few go to tips for you to help step up your shelfie game!
Step 1: Start fresh
We always start with an empty space no matter what shelves we are styling. This allows us to start fresh and get an idea of what we want our shelves to look like without any clutter. This is a good tip across the board but come especially in handy when styling shelves.
Step 2: Visualize + Take Inventory
Visualize what you want the shelf to look like, whether you get some pinterest (or RD) inspiration. Take a mental inventory of what you need. Once you get a good idea, think of all the items you already have that will help bring your shelves to life. We want your shelves to be filled with your favourite items and be a reflection of what you love. After taking inventory of what you already have, then you can fill whatever is missing in with some new pieces.
Step 3: Organize
Take your inventory of items and break them up by colour, size, contrast, texture, purpose etc… this will be useful when filling in spaces and following the process detailed below.
Step 4: Evaluate the space
Before you start placing your pieces, evaluate the surroundings, what colours are in your space? Is it busy or minimal? The goal is to create balance between your space and the shelves, so choose items that compliment your space. If your space is very colourful, keep your shelf décor simple and neutral. Same with if your space is very busy, style your shelves a bit more minimal.
Step 5: Start Big!
One easy way to start styling is to work around a focal point. That way you won’t feel lost with a bunch of small objects. Use big items like vases and art and fill them in with the smaller objects afterwards. We want to create some visual dimension so different height objects will create more excitement, and balance!
Step 6: Grouping small items
This is where it gets exciting! Now it’s time to fill in the shelves with groups of smaller items. Keep in mind to stager textures, contrast, and colours. You don’t want too much of one thing next to each other, spread them out to achieve that balanced look. Finally, fill in some special sentimental pieces that give meaning to your shelves.
Step 7: Step back and evaluate
As you go you will be running back and forth getting in all of your daily cardio! Step back and evaluate the results. Check in with the balance of everything, and where you can add, subtract, or move around objects. Luckily this process is never absolute, so you can always go back and freshen up your space with new art, or swap things out around your home!
1. Define Your Zones
Even in a small space, defining separate areas for different functions can make the room feel more organized and spacious. Use rugs, furniture placement, or shelving to create a sense of division. For example, a small studio apartment can still have a designated living, sleeping, and work area with the right layout and thoughtful placement.
2. Choose Furniture with Exposed Legs
Bulky furniture that sits directly on the floor can make a room feel heavy and crowded. Instead, opt for furniture with exposed legs, such as mid-century modern sofas, chairs, and tables. This creates an airy, open feeling and gives the illusion of more floor space.
3. Use Light, Neutral Colors
Lighter shades—like soft whites, beiges, and pastels—help reflect light and make a room feel larger and brighter. If you love color, incorporate it through decor, textiles, or accent walls rather than overwhelming the space with dark tones.
4. Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture
In a small space, every piece of furniture should earn its keep! Consider investing in items like a storage ottoman, a fold-out desk, or a daybed that doubles as a sofa. Look for dining tables with extendable leaves, beds with built-in drawers, or nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use.
5. Maximize Vertical Space
When floor space is limited, go up! Use tall bookshelves, wall-mounted storage, or floating shelves to free up valuable square footage. Floor-to-ceiling shelving or cabinets not only provide ample storage but also draw the eye upward, making the ceiling feel higher.
6. Use Large-Scale Art
It might seem counterintuitive, but incorporating large-scale artwork can make a small room feel bigger. A large painting or statement mirror creates a focal point that expands the visual boundaries of the space, making it feel more open and less cluttered.
7. Incorporate Reflective Surfaces
Mirrors are a tried-and-true trick for making spaces feel larger. Position a mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light and instantly brighten the room. Consider using glossy or glass finishes on furniture to create a similar effect.
8. Keep Clutter to a Minimum
Nothing shrinks a space faster than clutter. Be mindful of what you bring into the room and invest in stylish storage solutions. Baskets, decorative boxes, and wall-mounted organizers can help keep things tidy while maintaining your design aesthetic.
9. Choose a Statement Light Fixture
Good lighting can transform a small space. Instead of multiple small lamps, opt for a single statement light fixture, like a sculptural pendant or a sleek chandelier. Wall sconces and recessed lighting are also great options for freeing up valuable surface space.
10. Use Sheer or Minimal Window Treatments
Heavy drapes can overwhelm a small room. Instead, go for sheer curtains, light linen panels, or even no window coverings at all if privacy isn’t a concern. This allows more natural light to flood the space, making it feel brighter and more expansive.
follows on instagram
