Quick, lets take a Shelfie - Shelf Styling How To
Shelf styling is something many clients don't think a lot about. Some people see a shelf as a practical piece, more than an aesthetic, and others just don't know where to start.
I have broken down the simple tips and tricks I use to style shelves and how to turn them into another feature of your room to display your objets and add interest and warmth to your home.
1. Start With The Larger Objects First
It is always easiest to start with your largest items first. These will inevitably end up creating your framework and they can start setting the space out for you. Items such as artwork or baskets can be a good starting point.
2. Bring in Artwork
Your artwork doesn't have to be a large or expensive piece. I have used framed cards that I have been gifted, cute little finds at markets or even a simple sketch. I do recommend to always frame the artwork in a beautiful frame, Again these don't have to be intricate or expensive; Kmart and Target have great frame options.
Consider placing the artwork towards the back of the shelf and layering smaller decorative items in front – this will create depth of the shelf and will add an extra layer of interest.
3. Book Placement
Books instantly add a homely feel to any shelf. If possible, an investment in some beautiful hardcover coffee table books can really lift your shelf styling, There are some stunning travel and photography books that not only look fantastic, but are also great conversation pieces when you're entertaining, Make the most of your books by stacking them horizontally and vertically, and aligning some stacks to the left, right or centre of a shelf.
4. Introduce Decorative Objects
To give your shelves some personality and warmth it is important to add some decorative objects. These could be pieces you’ve collected on your travels, treasured family heirlooms or latest season homewares. You really can have fun here with your choice of objects. However, it is important to keep in mind the scale and sizing of the item to ensure it works in with the rest of the scheme.
One of my favourite tricks is to actually place the decorativee objects on top of a stack of books to create both height and layers.
7. Add Greenery
Indoor plants add a pop of life and have a stack of health benefits too (such as improving air quality and even reducing blood pressure!).
The availability of stylish pots is so easy now, all you need is a quick trip to Kmart and you have a huge choice of interesting pots that will help add another dimension to your shelf styling.
If keeping a plant alive is not your forté, there really is some fantastic faux greenery on the market. A fake plant is a much better option than a dead plant!
Once you have followed these tips, stand back and review. Even the best designers and stylists will arrange things several times over before they are happy with the result. If something isn't working switch things around and try again, you'll be surprised by how even the smallest change can make the shelf look totally different!
