The Ultimate Guide to Styling Open Shelving Like a Pro
Open shelving has become a staple in modern home design, offering a perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics. Whether in the kitchen, living room, bathroom, or office, open shelves provide an opportunity to display your favorite decor while keeping essentials within easy reach.
But styling open shelves can be tricky—too much clutter, and it looks messy; too sparse, and it feels empty. The secret? Curating a mix of practical and decorative pieces to create a cohesive, visually appealing display.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through expert tips on how to style your open shelves with ease, covering everything from choosing a color palette to incorporating decorative and functional elements. Plus, we’ll include must-have product recommendations so you can shop the look effortlessly. Let’s get started!
Start with a Clean Slate
Before styling, remove everything from your shelves. Wipe them down and assess the space. Give yourself a blank canvas to work with. This is the perfect time to declutter and decide what items truly belong on display. This allows you to be intentional about what goes back on the shelf, rather than just rearranging what was already there.
Steps to Prep Your Shelves for Styling:
- Remove all items and assess what you truly want to keep.
- Wipe down surfaces with a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner.
- Check for balance—make sure your shelves are evenly spaced and level.
- Decide on a theme or purpose for the shelf (purely decorative vs. a mix of storage and display).
Layer Objects for Depth
Flat, single-line arrangements can feel dull. Instead, layer different items at varying heights and depths to create a more dynamic display.
Stack books horizontally as a base for decorative objects.
Use taller vases or frames at the back for height.
Mix materials (wood, glass, ceramic, metal) for texture and interest.
Mix Decorative and Functional Items
Shelving should be both beautiful and practical. Balance useful storage solutions with decorative pieces to avoid clutter.
In the kitchen, mix dishware, spice jars, and greenery.
In the living room, pair books with candles, small sculptures, and framed art.
In the office, blend storage boxes with plants and motivational prints.
Add Greenery for a Fresh Look
Plants breathe life into any space, adding a natural element that makes shelves feel more inviting. Whether you prefer real plants for their air-purifying benefits or high-quality faux plants for a low-maintenance option, greenery instantly enhances shelf styling.
🌿 Trailing Plants for a Cascading Effect
Perfect for adding movement and dimension, trailing plants soften the look of structured shelves.
Pothos (Golden Pothos, Marble Queen Pothos) – Thrives in low light and requires minimal care.
String of Pearls – A trendy choice with delicate, draping vines.
English Ivy – Lush and fast-growing, ideal for bookshelf edges.
Artificial Hanging Plants – If maintenance is a concern, opt for high-quality faux vines.
Follow the "Rule of Thirds" for a Balanced Look
One of the easiest ways to achieve a well-designed shelf is by following the Rule of Thirds—a principle used in photography and interior design. This rule suggests that objects look more visually appealing when grouped in odd numbers, particularly in sets of three.
How to Apply the Rule of Thirds to Shelf Styling:
Vary heights: Place a tall item, a medium-sized piece, and a smaller item together to create a visually interesting arrangement. For example, a tall vase, a small stack of books, and a decorative object.
Mix shapes and textures: Combine organic shapes (curvy vases, round bowls) with structured elements (square boxes, straight-lined books) for contrast.
Think in clusters: Instead of evenly spacing out items across the shelf, create small clusters of three to five objects.
Decorative vase sets → Ideal for adding height variation.
Stackable books → Hardcover books that double as decor and support smaller objects.
Sculptural objects → Modern ceramic pieces that add personality.
By implementing the Rule of Thirds, you ensure that your shelf looks intentionally designed rather than randomly filled with objects.
Keep It Minimal and Curated for a Polished Look
Minimalism doesn’t mean bare or boring—it means intentional styling that highlights a few well-chosen items rather than overcrowding your shelves. The key is to leave enough negative space so that each piece stands out.
Tips for a Curated Shelf Display:
Declutter Before Styling: Only keep pieces that serve a purpose—whether practical or decorative. Too many items can make shelves feel chaotic.
Create Breathing Room: Avoid filling every inch of space. Leaving gaps between objects gives your display a light, airy feel.
Stick to a Cohesive Theme: Whether it’s modern, rustic, or boho, choose items that align with the overall decor style of your home.
Examples of Minimalist Shelf Styling in Different Rooms:
Kitchen: White dishware, a few glass jars with pantry staples, and a small potted plant.
Living Room: A framed print, a single ceramic sculpture, and a stack of design books.
Bathroom: Woven baskets, neatly rolled towels, and a candle.
Floating shelves → Sleek, minimal designs to enhance any space.
Storage baskets → Stylish yet functional organizers to keep shelves looking neat.
Scented candles → Aesthetically pleasing options that add a cozy touch.
By embracing a less-is-more approach, your open shelves will exude effortless elegance, making your home feel stylish and well-organized.
Open shelving is a stylish way to showcase your personality while maintaining organization. By choosing a cohesive color palette, layering objects, and balancing decor with function, you can achieve a beautifully curated look in any room.
For more styling tips, check out The Home Office Edit on the blog!
Happy Decorating! -Chantalle
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