Open shelving is a beautiful and functional way to display decor, books, kitchen essentials, and collectibles. But if not styled properly, it can quickly look cluttered or unbalanced. Whether you’re working with kitchen shelves, living room displays, or bathroom storage, this guide will help you style open shelving like an interior designer—making it both practical and visually stunning.
Start with a Clean Slate
Before styling, completely clear off your shelves. This gives you a fresh start and allows you to be intentional about what you place back.
✔ Dust and wipe down the shelves.
✔ Evaluate what items you actually want to display.
✔ Donate or relocate anything that doesn’t fit your aesthetic.
💡 Pro Tip: If your shelves feel outdated, consider giving them a fresh coat of paint or installing floating wooden shelves for a modern touch!
Follow the “Rule of Thirds” for Balance
Interior designers swear by the Rule of Thirds—a technique that helps create visually balanced displays.
✔ Group items in sets of three or odd numbers.
✔ Vary the heights and sizes of objects to create depth.
✔ Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter decor at the top.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overloading shelves with too many small objects—it can look messy instead of stylish!
Mix Books with Decorative Objects
Books aren’t just for reading—they’re great for styling, too! Using books strategically can help break up decor and make the shelves look polished.
✔ Stack books horizontally to create platforms for vases or sculptures.
✔ Use a mix of upright and stacked books for visual interest.
✔ Choose books with neutral or aesthetically pleasing covers for a cohesive look.
💡 Pro Tip: If your book spines don’t match your color scheme, turn them around for a minimalist, neutral look!
Incorporate Greenery for a Fresh Touch
Plants breathe life into shelves, adding texture, color, and an organic feel.
✔ Use trailing plants like pothos or ivy to cascade down shelves.
✔ Small succulents or ferns work great for tucked-in spaces.
✔ Faux plants are a low-maintenance alternative if you struggle to keep real plants alive.
💡 Pro Tip: Use ceramic or woven planters to add even more texture and warmth to your shelves!
Play with Height and Layering
To create a dynamic and curated look, avoid placing everything at the same height. Instead, use layering techniques to add depth.
✔ Lean framed artwork or mirrors against the wall behind other decor.
✔ Vary tall and short objects for an effortless, collected look.
✔ Use pedestals, stacks of books, or risers to create different levels.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t line up items in a row—stagger them for a more natural and inviting feel!
Use a Consistent Color Palette
Sticking to a cohesive color palette makes open shelving look intentional and stylish rather than chaotic.
✔ Choose 2-3 main colors and stick to them.
✔ Incorporate neutrals (white, beige, gray, or wood tones) as a base.
✔ Add subtle pops of color through vases, artwork, or books.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want a minimalist look, opt for a monochrome palette like black and white with natural wood tones!
Add Functional Storage Elements
Open shelving isn’t just for decor—it should also be practical! Using stylish storage elements helps keep things organized while maintaining an elegant look.
✔ Woven baskets to hide clutter or store small items.
✔ Glass jars for kitchen ingredients or bathroom essentials.
✔ Decorative boxes for papers, cords, or small accessories.
💡 Pro Tip: Use labels on baskets and jars for a chic yet functional organization system!
Create Negative Space (Don’t Overcrowd!)
One of the biggest mistakes people make with open shelving is filling every inch. Negative space (empty areas) is just as important as the objects themselves.
✔ Leave breathing room between items.
✔ Avoid cramming too many small knick-knacks together.
✔ Think minimal but intentional—less is more!
💡 Pro Tip: If your shelves still feel cluttered, remove one or two items and step back to assess the balance!
Add Personal Touches
Your shelves should reflect your personality and interests! Mixing personal items with decorative objects makes the space feel authentic and lived-in.
✔ Display family photos in simple, modern frames.
✔ Showcase souvenirs or travel mementos in an elegant way.
✔ Include handmade ceramics or unique thrifted finds for character.
💡 Pro Tip: Rotate personal items seasonally to keep things fresh and exciting!
Light It Up with Accent Lighting
Lighting adds a dramatic effect to open shelving, making it feel more polished and luxurious.
✔ Install LED strip lights underneath each shelf for a soft glow.
✔ Use small table lamps or wall sconces on or near shelves for ambiance.
✔ Candles or fairy lights can add a cozy, inviting touch.
💡 Pro Tip: If you have glass shelves, use backlighting to create an elegant, museum-like display!
Final Thoughts: Open Shelving, Styled Like a Pro
Styling open shelves is all about balance, texture, and personality. Whether in your kitchen, living room, or bathroom, following these expert tips will help you create a curated and stylish display.
✨ Quick Recap:
✔ Start with a clean slate and declutter.
✔ Follow the Rule of Thirds for balance.
✔ Mix books, decor, and greenery for texture.
✔ Keep a cohesive color palette for a polished look.
✔ Leave negative space—don’t overcrowd!
✔ Add personal touches to make it feel like home.
