Wise Design FAQ: How to Style Shelves

It can be daunting to look at an empty shelf and try to style it in a way that feels both effortless and sophisticated. Of all the questions we are asked as designers, “What the heck do I put on all these shelves?” is a common one. Luckily, there are some easy guidelines that can help bring the details together!

1. Remove everything from your shelves: And I mean everything! This is the perfect opportunity to deep clean your shelves, and also do an inventory of what you have, and what you would like to remove or remain.

   
   

   

   
   

2. Start with the big stuff: When you’re ready to begin filling your shelves again, start with items that take up the most real estate, and spread those items around a bit so they aren’t bunched together. This will help to provide visual balance as you continue to layer items in.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Group together: Use groupings of items with variable size, color, texture, etc. It will make the shelves feel dynamic and interesting. A good rule of thumb is to have groupings of odd numbers- 3 or 5 typically work for shelves- and leave a little breathing room between groupings.

   
   

   

   
   

4. Use Plants: Adding a plant or flowers can add such a sense of life to your shelves, and add such a nice softness to the hard lines of shelves. It creates a fresh and lively element.

   
   

   

   
   

5. Don’t be afraid of negative space: Negative space gives the eye a chance to rest, and the pieces to breathe a bit. When shelves are crowded, you end up seeing less of the things you’re hoping to highlight. 

   
   

   

   
   

6.  Add lighting: Shelves can be a great opportunity for lighting. A well placed sconce can highlight from the outside in, and LED strips can illuminate from the inside out. Lighting is also a fun way to infuse a bit more personality into a space.

   

   
   

7. Use personal items: Adding personal touches will add such character, and put the special moments of your life on display. Maybe a framed picture from your last family reunion or a souvenir from that amazing trip. Have an old bowling trophy gathering dust? Display it too!