No more shelving mysteries!

Styling a bookshelf is one of those decorating elements that can feel deceptively simple ~ when done right, it can transform and elevate a room. A well-styled shelf adds warmth, personality, and texture to your space while keeping it functional and balanced. Here’s how to achieve that designer look:

First: Take everything off the shelves (or mantle, or coffee table, etc.). Starting with a blank slate is important ~ and to clean/dust especially if you have glass tops!

Next: Variety is key to visual interest. Combine tall vases with shorter decorative boxes, round objects with rectangular books, and soft textures with hard materials. In this built-in, a mix of woven baskets, ceramics, greenery, and books creates movement and keeps the eye engaged.

Plants, dried florals, or even driftwood add life and softness to a shelving display.

Books can be stacked horizontally to elevate smaller objects, or placed vertically with simple bookends to anchor a shelf. I love to turn them so you just see the pages for a bit of contrast and texture.

Designers follow the “rule of three” for good reason ~ odd numbers create more dynamic groupings. Try arranging three items of varying heights together on one shelf, leaving negative space around them so each piece can shine.

Don't forget - don't overcrowd your shelf! You can easily make a space look cluttered rather than curated with too many items.

Here are a few favorites of mine!