How To Style Open Shelves So They Look Good And Stay Organized (Part 36)
**Breathe New Life into Your Open Shelving: A Stylish Guide**
As a homeowner or interior designer, you’re no stranger to the importance of organization and style in your living space. But have you ever stopped to think about how to make open shelving work for you? Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your dining room or create a cozy reading nook, expertly styled open shelves can be the key.
In this article, we’ll share our top tips on how to style open shelves with ease and flair. From selecting the perfect products to incorporating them into your decor, we’ve got you covered.
**Choose Your Products Wisely**
When it comes to selecting products for your open shelving, there are several factors to consider. Look for items that complement each other in terms of color, material, and texture. Here are some specific product types to keep in mind:
* **Light-colored glass shelves**: Available at Bed Bath & Beyond ($20-$50) or West Elm ($30-$70), these provide a clean backdrop for your favorite decorative pieces.
* **Wooden crates**: Find them at Target ($10-$30) or Crate & Barrel ($40-$100). These add warmth and coziness to any room, perfect for displaying books, candles, or vintage treasures.
* **Metallic accents**: Shop at Pottery Barn ($20-$50) or CB2 ($15-$30) for a sleek and modern touch.
**Selecting Colors: A Palette of Possibilities**
When it comes to selecting colors for your open shelving, don’t be afraid to get creative. Here are some color combinations that will make your shelves shine:
* **Neutral base**: Choose a light-colored wall or countertop (e.g., Sherwin-Williams’ “Comfort Gray” or Valspar’s “Driftwood”) as the foundation for your shelves.
* **Accent wall**: Paint one wall in a bold, contrasting color (e.g., Benjamin Moore’s “Navy Blue” or Farrow & Ball’s “Terracotta”) to create visual interest and add depth.
* **Accent shelf**: Select a metallic finish (e.g., gold, silver, or copper) for added glamour.
**Materials Matter**
The material you choose for your open shelving can make all the difference in terms of style and functionality. Here are some popular options:
* **Reclaimed wood**: Find it at Habitat for Humanity ReStores ($10-$30) or online marketplaces like eBay.
* **MDF shelves**: Shop at Home Depot ($5-$15) or Lowe’s ($8-$20).
* **Metallic finishes**: Choose from a range of options, including copper, brass, and rose gold.
**Where to Buy**
For all your open shelving needs, you can find everything at popular home decor retailers:
* Bed Bath & Beyond: bedbathandbeyond.com
* West Elm: westelm.com
* Target: target.com
* Crate & Barrel: crateandbarrel.com
* Pottery Barn: potterybarn.com
* CB2: cb2.com
**Tips for Styling Your Open Shelves**
Now that you’ve got the products and materials in place, it’s time to think about styling your open shelves. Here are some expert tips to get you started:
* **Layered look**: Mix and match different textures (e.g., smooth glass, rough-hewn wood) to
