Shelfie Ready: How to Style Your Shelf like a Pro
A styled shelf can be an amazing design element in your home, but where should you even start? It can be very overwhelming - but Micah & Co. is here to help! With a few key principles in mind, styling a shelf can be a fun and rewarding way to showcase your personal style and add visual interest to your space.
Helm Farm House
When choosing what (or what not) to add to your shelf, consider the tips below first:
Consider your color palette - Before you start styling your shelf, think about the colors you want to incorporate. We love using a neutral color scheme as a base, then adding pops of color with decorative objects. For example, if your walls are white, try using light-colored woods and woven textures on your shelf, then add a few blue or green decorative objects for contrast.
Mix up textures and heights - A variety of textures and heights adds interest to your shelf and keeps it from looking too uniform. Try incorporating books, plants, vases, and decorative objects in different shapes and sizes. Layer items on top of each other, and vary the heights of your objects by using risers or stacking books.
Group items in odd numbers - Grouping items in odd numbers, such as three or five, creates a balanced and visually appealing display. Consider grouping items with similar colors or textures together to create a cohesive look.
Personalize your space - Don't be afraid to incorporate items that have personal meaning to you, such as family photos or souvenirs from your travels. This will make your space feel more personal and less like a display of random objects. You can also use books to showcase your interests, whether that's art, photography, or cooking.
Don't overcrowd your shelf - While you want to showcase your favorite objects, it's important not to overcrowd your shelf. Leave some negative space to give your eye a place to rest. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 30% of your shelf empty.
Helm Farm House
The Evening Stroll Project
Some items you could use to style your shelf include:
Books
Plants
Vases
Decorative boxes or trays
Artwork or photographs
Sculptural objects
Candles or candleholders
Woven baskets or bowls
The Georgian Project
When placing items on your shelf, consider the following:
Start with the largest objects first and work your way down to smaller items.
Use books as a base for other objects.
Use trays or boxes to corral smaller items and create a sense of order.
Vary the heights of your objects to create visual interest.
Use plants to add texture and color..
A Walk in the Park Project
Remember, styling a shelf is all about finding a balance between function and aesthetics. By following these principles and using a mix of textures and heights, you can create a stylish and personalized display that showcases your favorite objects.