How To Style Open Shelves So They Look Good And Stay Organized
Open shelves are a timeless and versatile design element that can add depth, texture, and visual interest to any room in your home. With the right products and styling tips, you can create an open shelf space that looks amazing and stays organized, making it perfect for displaying books, decorative objects, or even showcasing fresh flowers.
When it comes to selecting items for your open shelves, consider using a mix of textures, colors, and materials. Here are some product recommendations:
* Books: Choose from a variety of bookends in wood tones such as walnut, oak, or cherry (e.g., West Elm’s Walnut Wood Bookend). For a pop of color, try a brightly hued book like the Turquoise Blue edition by Tomoe River.
* Decorative Objects: A beautiful vase or sculpture can add a touch of elegance to your open shelf. Look for pieces in metal, glass, or ceramic materials (e.g., Crate & Barrel’s Rose Gold Vase). For a more rustic look, consider a natural fiber basket (e.g., CB2’s Woven Wicker Basket).
* Lighting: Add ambiance with table lamps or floor lamps made from metallic finishes like brass, gold, or copper (e.g., Pottery Barn’s Golden Bronze Table Lamp).
To create a visually appealing open shelf space, consider the 60-30-10 rule:
* 60% of the room should be a dominant color (walls, furniture)
* 30% can be a secondary color (decorative objects, rugs)
* 10% is an accent color (accessories, lighting)
In terms of colors, here are some options to consider:
* Warm neutrals: Earthy tones like beige, taupe, or caramel create a cozy atmosphere.
* Cool pastels: Soft pink, blue, or yellow add a touch of whimsy and playfulness.
* Rich jewel tones: Emerald green, navy blue, or burgundy elevate the space with sophistication.
Open shelves can be made from various materials, including:
* Wood: Choose from hardwoods like oak, walnut, or cherry for a traditional look. For a more rustic feel, consider reclaimed wood or rough-hewn woods (e.g., Crate & Barrel’s Reclaimed Wood Shelves).
* Metal: Add a touch of modernity with metal
Related: How to Style Open Shelving Without It Looking Cluttered
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