The Art of the Styled Shelf
Ever wondered how to style the perfect shelf - whether it’s in the lounge, kitchen, or bedroom?
It’s a question we get asked a lot. It’s all about finding the right balance of personality, practicality, and style and of course including the kids art creations and treasures, we sat down with A&C Interior Stylists, Poppy & Beck, to get their top tips on the art of shelf styling.
Where’s the best place to start?
Step one is to start a fresh. Clear everything off your shelf to create a blank canvas, a clean, uncluttered space is the best base for styling success.
What’s the secret to a shelf that looks effortless? (but totally intentional)?
Don’t just opt for decorative items, add some practical ones in there too! I like using vases with fresh flowers, books, candles and lamps for ambience. This will keep your shelves from looking overly ‘styled’ and give them a more personalised touch.
What’s the trick to keeping shelves looking great without feeling cluttered?
It’s all about balance. Make sure you utilise objects of different heights and sizes. If you opt for all large, statement items your shelves can quickly start feeling like a gallery - but if you fill them up with lots of little items that’s where they start to look cluttered. I find clusters of three items look really good together! One larger item, one medium, and one small.
You can also balance your shelves through colour. Don’t just put the colour all in one place, spread it out and break it up with some neutrals. If you have light-coloured shelves add some darker colours at the back for contrast, and if you have dark or wooden shelves, introduce some brighter colours for dimension.
Any tips for working artwork into the mix?
I love artwork on shelves! It can fill up spaces that feel lost or empty. If I am putting artwork on a shelf I always like to choose some items that complement the piece, whether it’s through colour, texture or contrast. I would start by looking at some of the more subtle colours that are coming through in the work, even if it’s a tiny stroke of paint in a certain colour. Then I would choose objects in that colour to help tie the look together while still letting the artwork dominate.
Art can work as a great base for the entire colour scheme of your shelves!
What are some common shelf-styling mistakes?
Messy cords! I hate seeing a shelf that has been beautifully curated but has a black cord hanging down the back taking all the attention. If you’re using lamps or pieces that require cords, try and keep them as neat as possible. It might mean placing it closer to the outlet or using some wire to bundle it up and hide it behind something on the shelf.
Another easy mistake to make is using items that don’t fit with the overall room. For example if you’re styling living room shelves, don’t put your salt and pepper shakers or recipe books in there, the same way you wouldn’t put coffee table books on your kitchen shelves. Choose a theme that will suit the space and stick to it! Remember, your shelves should be practical as well as beautiful.
Fave A&C pieces to create a dream setup?
Sfera Baskets
Fulton Vase
Natural Wide cork bowl
Poets Dream fruit bowl