Open shelving can elevate any space — from kitchens to living rooms to bathrooms — but styling them? That’s where the magic happens. It’s about balancing function with beauty, creating an artful display while keeping everything accessible and organized.
Whether you’ve just added open shelves or you’ve been struggling to make them look just right, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Follow these pro tips, and your shelves will soon be the envy of everyone who walks into your home.
Start With a Clean Slate
Before diving into styling, start fresh. Empty your shelves completely, and clean every surface. This gives you a blank canvas to work with and helps you see how much space you truly have to work with.
Pro Tip: If your shelves are new, test different shelf heights to see how much space each item needs. You can also adjust the number of shelves depending on your items.
Group Like Items Together
The best way to bring balance to your shelves is by grouping similar items together. Think of your shelves as little vignettes. Grouping items that share a theme or color palette makes everything feel cohesive.
What to Group:
- Books: Stack books both vertically and horizontally for variety.
- Plants: Use different sizes of plants for texture and height variation.
- Decorative Objects: Keep like items together—think of a collection of ceramic vases or candles.
Mix Function and Style
Open shelves aren’t just for show; they should also serve a purpose. While it’s tempting to make everything look like a magazine spread, remember that your shelves need to be practical too. Mix in functional items that are frequently used but can still look stylish.
Functional Items to Consider:
- Glass jars for pantry staples
- Coffee mugs arranged neatly on a shelf
- Towels folded on bathroom shelves
These functional pieces add a bit of everyday charm while still making the space feel polished.
Create Visual Balance
A key principle of professional shelf styling is balance. You don’t want your shelves to feel top-heavy or lopsided, so think about balancing items in terms of height, color, and texture.
How to balance your shelves:
- Vary heights: Place taller items at the back, shorter items in front, or even stack items for visual interest.
- Layer textures: Mix hard items like metal or glass with soft ones like textiles or woven baskets.
- Use color wisely: Limit your color palette to avoid overwhelming the eye. Stick with neutrals, or go for a pop of color with one or two statement pieces.
Add Personal Touches
Your shelves should feel uniquely yours. Personal items bring warmth and character to the space. Add a few personal touches, whether it’s family photos, sentimental objects, or unique finds from your travels.
Ideas for Personalizing Your Shelves:
- A framed photo of a special moment
- An antique object or heirloom
- A travel souvenir like a small globe or an art print
These personal items don’t just add flair; they tell a story about who you are.
Don’t Overcrowd
Less is often more when it comes to open shelves. Overcrowding can make the space feel chaotic instead of curated. When in doubt, leave some space open.
Pro Tips for Open Shelves:
- Leave some empty space between items for a relaxed, airy look.
- Avoid overcrowding — a few well-placed items are better than cramming everything in.
- Don’t be afraid of negative space. It lets each item shine.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Adding natural elements is a great way to breathe life into your shelves. Whether it’s wood, stone, or plants, nature always makes an elegant and timeless addition to any space.
Natural Elements to Add:
- Wood: Wooden bowls or trays add warmth and texture.
- Stone: Marble or stone pieces offer a sleek and luxurious touch.
- Plants: Greenery never goes out of style and brings a touch of nature indoors.
Final Thoughts
Styling open shelves is all about creating a balanced, functional, and visually pleasing space. By grouping like items, mixing in some functional pieces, and adding personal touches, your open shelves will feel effortlessly chic and perfectly curated.
Ready to give your shelves a makeover? Start with these pro tips, and in no time, you’ll have a stylish, organized space you can be proud of!
Save this article for later when you’re ready to style your open shelves like a pro!
Emily Parker is a home décor enthusiast and design blogger who believes every space deserves a touch of warmth and personality. With a love for cozy neutrals, modern textures, and DIY styling, she shares simple, beautiful ways to make your home feel like you. When she’s not rearranging throw pillows, you’ll find her hunting vintage finds or sipping coffee while planning her next room refresh.
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