Summary
Styling shelves can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by gathering versatile decor pieces like books, small plants, and decorative accents. Choose items that reflect your style. Stick to a cohesive color palette and group pieces into simple, balanced arrangements for a polished look.
Greenery
Greenery is a must-have for styling shelves, bringing a fresh, natural vibe to any space. Use real, faux, or dried plants to soften the sharp, horizontal lines of shelves. For well-lit areas, go for easy-care live plants like pothos. In darker spaces, opt for faux or dried stems arranged in elegant bud vases to maintain a stylish, cohesive look.
Framed art
Framed art or photos make stunning focal points when styling shelves. Lean a few frames together for a layered look, or hang one slightly above the shelf using a nail or command strip. Whether you go bold with multiple pieces or stick to a single accent, artwork adds depth, color, and texture, instantly elevating your shelf decor.
ARTWORK / FRAMED PHOTOS / SIGNS
Start styling shelves with art and framed photos, as they cover a significant portion of space. Pick your favorite pieces and make them the focal point. Consider the height between shelves and choose frames that fit well. Match frame colors to your decor’s palette for a harmonious look.
BOOKS
Books are a classic choice for styling shelves, but avoid filling them end-to-end. Stack a few together on different shelves, mixing flat and upright arrangements for variety. Display coffee table books with spines out for color or turn them backward for a neutral look. Add charm with antique books or thrifted paperbacks with covers removed for a clean, affordable style.
Pick The Best Materials – And Color Scheme
The materials and colors you choose for styling shelves can transform your living room’s vibe. Mix light and dark woods or blend timber with painted finishes for contrast. Add texture by using wallpaper or fabric as back panels, creating a unique and eye-catching backdrop.
Light Your Living Room Shelving
Good lighting is essential for styling shelves in the living room. LED lights are perfect for creating subtle, elegant effects without overheating. Use them to highlight your display, adding depth and drama. A well-lit shelf instantly enhances the room’s ambiance and visual appeal.
Create A Statement Display
Combine large statement pieces with smaller grouped items for a balanced shelf design. Arrange objects to create visually appealing shapes, mixing colors and forms for interest. Fill glass lidded pots with vibrant props, blending function and decoration for an eye-catching and dynamic display.
Create A Focal Point Behind A Sofa
Instead of a traditional painting, use the wall space behind your sofa to create a stunning focal point with styled shelves. Display shapely vessels in varying heights, sculptural shapes, and different textures for a unique and visually appealing look. This alternative adds personality and elegance to your living room.
Choose Floating Shelves
For a minimalist or small living room, floating shelves are an ideal choice. Fixed to the wall with hidden brackets, they offer an airy, streamlined look. These shelves help create the illusion of more space, making your room feel open and uncluttered.
Flank Your Fireplace
Maximize the awkward space beside your fireplace with built-in shelves. Opt for custom designs tailored to your space, or try DIY built-in shelves with expert-approved hacks. Either way, you’ll make the most of the area while adding stylish storage and decor.
Style a Glass Display Cabinet
Glass display cabinets are both practical and stylish. They protect delicate or sentimental items while offering ample storage space. If you’re renting and can’t drill into the walls, a glass display cabinet is the perfect solution for showcasing your treasures without damage.
Utilize Unexpected Spaces
Not everyone has room for large, wall-to-wall built-ins, but you can still create smart storage solutions. The designers at Prairie Interiors cleverly used the space underneath the staircase for built-in storage. This creative design shows that with a little ingenuity, any space can be transformed.
Create a Wall-to-Wall Bookshelf
Transform your living room into a cozy home library with wall-to-wall bookshelves. Stack books both horizontally and vertically for added contrast and visual interest. This arrangement creates movement and keeps the display dynamic, while giving your room a stylish, literary feel.
Where Should Shelving Be Placed In The Living Room?
For open shelving, use the full height of the living room to create maximum impact. A floor-to-ceiling unit with adjustable shelves and minimal fixtures will anchor the space while providing a striking display. In smaller rooms, shelving offers storage without taking up too much space. Choose a style—traditional with detailed joinery or sleek and modern—and consider what you’ll display. This ensures each shelf has the right depth and strength to hold items without warping.
How Do I Organize My Living Room Shelves?
“Keeping your living room shelves organized is essential,” says Anne Haimes of Anne Haimes Interiors. “Group items in sets of three, four, or five to avoid clutter. When choosing your shelves, decide if you want them to stand out as a statement piece or if you prefer them to play a subtle role, letting your display shine.”
FAQs
How to style shelves in the living room?
Use a mix of books, decor pieces, plants, and artwork for a balanced and visually appealing arrangement.
What is the rule of three for shelves?
The rule of three involves grouping items in odd numbers (usually three), creating a harmonious and balanced display.
How to make your shelf look cool?
Add unique decor pieces, mix textures, and include a pop of color to keep the shelf interesting and stylish.
How to fill empty shelves?
Fill empty shelves with books, decorative objects, plants, or framed photos to create a cohesive and organized look.
