Over the long weekend I restyled the built ins around the fireplace. They had become a catchall for random decor I wasn’t sure what to do with post-Christmas and needed a major refresh. I get a lot of questions about shelf styling, so I thought it would be a good time to revisit and share my secret formula and the 7 items I use for every shelfie. The best part is you can apply this to console styling, coffee tables and nightstands too!

Whenever I’m styling shelves I always start by clearing off the space so I have a clean slate. I like to have a color palette in mind, too. Having a color palette or a few pieces with similar tones or textures makes each individual shelf feel cohesive within the entire space. Also, keep in mind you want to use items that vary in size/height/scale/shape to add variety and keep your shelf styling from feeling flat. We’ll dive into what I like to use below. Once I’m done collecting, I spread everything out in front of me that I might want to use. I always grab more than I need, this way I can see how objects look together, even though I know I won’t use them all. Last, I always try to use bigger pieces because “bigger is better” is the name of the game. When it comes to styling anything, less is more in my opinion. Too many smaller items gives the feeling of clutter, so we want to avoid that.

Art

I typically start with art because it’s one of my bigger pieces and I like to layer items in front. Most of my collection is digital downloads I purchased off Etsy. I have an entire blog post on art and where I like to print, here. When I’m placing my art I don’t want perfect symmetry, in that, I don’t want every shelf to be exactly the same. I’m going for balance. If you look at the photo below you can see I’m not stacking my art directly on top of one another. Each side of the fireplace is different, but has 2 frames. I added variety by switching up the size, orientation and finish of my frames, yet they still feel cohesive because the art is similar. I don’t try to match my art, but I do try to keep the color palette similar.

Books

Once I’ve placed my art I usually grab books next. I use these to add height when when I’m stacking stack smaller objects on top. They’re also great for adding color & texture to your shelf styling. Pro tip: switch up how you use them. Think horizontal, stacked vertically, having the spine face out, or the pages. Coffee table books are probably my most used decor item, you can never have too many, and they’re a great source for inspo! I have a post here with my favorites!

Vessels

Once I have my art and books placed I start grabbing a variety of items. Usually some sort of pot is next because it’s bigger. Vessels are one of my favorite things to add to shelves. They come in so many gorgeous colors & textures and it’s an easy way to add a variety of sizes. I really have to be careful not to add too much pottery because I love it so much.

Objects

I’m always on the lookout for good unique objects because they are hard to find! Which is why they’re my favorite. It’s the best way to add personality and interest. An object could be anything. Below I used a wooden horse and a huge wooden wheel cog, but an object could be a sculptural piece, bookends, rings or beads, a magnifying glass, candlesticks, a cloche, bells, the list goes on. Objects are typically an item that I’ll splurge on because they are so unique.

Greenery

Every space needs a little greenery, even if it’s not actually green. This time of year I use a lot of sparse stems & branches to mimic what is going on outside and save my florals for later in spring & summer. Dried stems are a great option too, or even moss like I’ve used below as bowl filler. Stems give a space life and soften the look from all the other decor.

Sentimental Items

Sentimental items are a great way to personalize a space and make it feel like home. Family photos are the easiest, but you could also use other objects like a medal or trophy, or heirloom decor that has been handed down through the family, or even your kids’ art. In Kate’s room I framed bows she wore as a baby (see them here) and hung them on the wall, and in Emmas room I put her first pair of shoes in a shadow box.

Storage

Decor boxes and baskets are great storage solutions for things like remotes, corralling paperwork, storing matches, and hiding away toys or electronics. I like to use trays for grouping things together like coasters or candles & their accessories.

I hope this post helps if you struggle with shelf styling. If you have any Qs drop them in the comments below and I’ll be sure to get back to you. Don’t forget to come find me on Instagram!! xo- Linds