Organization and streamlined storage is the key to success for any busy lifestyle. Equally as important though is creating a beautiful space that is inspiring to live and work within. When picking out essentials for my new work space (read more about it here and here) a wall of shelves was at the top of the list. I knew it would provide tons of options for organizing but I also loved the idea of displaying certain things that bring me constant inspiration. As I stared at my blank (pre-filled) shelves the thought of where to start entered my mind. Do I pick a theme? Which “things” are worthy of being showcased? How do I make it functional and stylish at the same time? It always starts out that way, and then you start experimenting. After some trial and error, sourcing inspiration and coming up with a plan I discovered a few tips for stylish shelves. Stay tuned for the office reveal soon!
The first and most important tip for styling shelves (or styling anything for that matter) is to make it personal. Treat the shelves as a capsule or library of your favorite and most cherished items. Choose books, picture frames, and items that are both meaningful and aesthetically pleasing to you. I have a love for beautiful books, so I tend to fill my shelves with my favorite titles as a personal touch. My collection is ever-growing and I love being able to arrange the books differently, add new pieces, or completely change up the assortment from time to time based on my current obsessions.
Tip number two is to select a color palette. This will help to visually organize your shelves and reduce clutter. I like to choose a neutral palette and count on a sprinkle of color here or there from my photos, book covers, or various objects of interest, which leads me to the third tip . . . adding objects of interest.
Adding a couple of your favorite treasures to any shelf can add a nice dose of personality, color, texture and balance. This could be a great way to display antiques or family heirlooms. I also love to keep a small globe handy for my travel daydreams. The key is to keep it simple. See below for some great examples.
In terms of streamlining and de-cluttering, there’s nothing that can do the job better than boxes, bins, and baskets. It’s always a great idea to organize your shelves using boxes and bins that can help to conceal clutter and keep everything in it’s place. The great news is that you can find great boxes of all shapes and sizes at many home and office stores. These are two of my favorites from Anthropologie here and here. The rule of thumb is to select boxes that coordinate well together and fit alongside the other items on the shelf. Keep your color palette in mind as you select bins that best organize your style.
As much as you think about what to fill your shelves with, think about what not to include. Negative space can be a beautiful thing when it comes to design. Like I mentioned before, keep it simple. Take advantage of the space that you have to work with, but never cram it so full that you can’t easily find what you need.
The final two tips go well together. Texture and shape are some of the key elements of design. Be sure to include tasteful variation of each. This will help to elevate your design and bring interest to the space. An easy way to do this is by adding greenery. Adding plants to your living and working space can quite literally “liven” up the space adding great color, natural shape and texture. Choose low maintenance indoor plants and don’t be afraid to add more than a couple!
All photos found via Pinterest with the exception of the seventh photo, with thanks to Arna Bee.
