How To Style Open Shelves So They Look Good And Stay Organized (Part 28)
**Creating a Lively and Organized Look with Open Shelves**
In recent years, the trend of open shelving has taken the world by storm, allowing homeowners to display their favorite decorative items, cookbooks, and household essentials without the cluttered look that often accompanies traditional storage solutions.
To create a visually appealing and functional space, it’s essential to choose the right product types, colors, materials, and brands. Here are some tips on how to style open shelves so they look good and stay organized:
**Choose the Right Products**
* **Wooden Shelves:** Opt for solid wood or MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) shelves in a warm, honey-colored finish like “Chestnut” by Sherwin-Williams (SW 6251). You can also consider decorative wooden shelves with ornate carvings or distressed finishes.
* **White Shelves:** A crisp white or pale gray finish like “Creamy White” by Farrow & Ball (No. 27) will provide a clean and modern backdrop for your decorative items.
* **Metal Shelving:** For a sleek and industrial look, choose metal shelves in a brushed nickel or polished chrome finish. Look for brands like IKEA (HEMNES Bookcase) or Crate & Barrel (Wheatfield Shelves).
**Select Colorful Items**
To add visual interest to your open shelf, incorporate colorful items that reflect your personal style. Some popular options include:
* **Art Pieces:** Hang a statement art piece above the shelf using a sturdy picture frame like West Elm’s “Ombre” Frame in a rich, jewel-toned finish.
* **Vintage Items:** Display unique vintage items like antique jars, vases, or collectibles on open shelves to add character and depth to your space.
**Material Matters**
When it comes to materials, consider the durability and maintenance requirements of each option. Here are some suggestions:
* **Wooden Shelves:** Look for solid wood shelves that can withstand heavy usage and moisture exposure.
* **Metal Shelving:** Choose metal shelves with a waterproof coating to ensure they remain in good condition over time.
**Brands to Consider**
For high-quality products, explore these brands:
* **IKEA:** Known for their affordable and stylish storage solutions, IKEA offers a wide range of open shelving options.
* **Crate & Barrel:** This upscale home decor brand offers modern and sleek open shelves in various materials and finishes.
* **West Elm:** This furniture
