Open storage can be a challenge, especially for homeowners who might not have a natural flair for design. But don’t worry — with a few simple styling tips, you can transform your space into a magazine-worthy display. Whether you’re looking to style a bookshelf, an open shelving unit, or any other form of visible storage, these expert tips will help you create a beautifully organized and aesthetically pleasing home.
Organization & Practicality
For many homeowners, open or exposed storage can feel like a challenge, especially if you have young children or a busy household. The key to achieving both style and functionality with bookshelves is organization. A helpful tip is to always return items to their original spot rather than trying to fit them into new spaces or leaving them out to be put away later. This simple habit can keep your shelves neat and visually appealing.
Practicality is equally important. Shelving isn’t just for display — it should be functional too. When planning your open storage, consider where everyday items will go. If there are objects you use frequently but don’t necessarily want on full display, try tucking them into the corners of shelves or pairing them with decorative pieces to create a balanced look.
Remember, less is often more. Avoid overcrowding shelves and embrace the power of negative space. Play around with varying the heights and arrangement of objects to create a sense of harmony while leaving room for breathing space.
Create Visual Interest With Variety
One of the easiest ways to make your shelves visually captivating is by displaying a mix of items in different sizes, finishes, textures, and colors. This approach not only adds depth and interest but also allows you to incorporate design elements from other parts of your home, creating a cohesive flow throughout the space.
Height is another key factor in creating an eye-catching display. Choose items with varying heights to draw the eye and create dynamic visual lines. This is particularly effective on longer shelves, where taller objects can help fill the space without overcrowding.
Additionally, incorporating closed boxes or decorative storage containers can add both variety and functionality. These elements not only enhance the overall aesthetic but also help keep things organized, blending form and function seamlessly.
Designing Your Shelves
When designing your shelving, one simple yet effective tip is to ensure that the shelves are adjustable. This provides you with flexibility, allowing you to store items of varying sizes while also enabling you to create an asymmetrical arrangement that still feels balanced and visually appealing.
If you’re concerned about too much open storage, consider mixing open shelves with closed storage elements like cabinets. This combination allows you to showcase curated items while hiding away clutter, maintaining both style and organization.
To highlight meaningful objects, add directional lighting to your shelves. This not only draws attention to specific pieces but also enhances the ambiance of the entire room, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For a practical yet stylish solution, consider using reeded or frosted glass for cabinet doors. These types of glass offer a more refined, open feel, while still providing concealment for messier items or everyday essentials that you don’t necessarily want on display.
Showcase Your Personality
Open shelving is a fantastic way to infuse your personality and unique design style into your home. Use these spaces to display items that hold meaning for you and your family, whether they are functional or sentimental. Consider showcasing a mix of objects such as books, vinyl records, framed photos, decorative vases, bowls, and plants — all of which can help tell your story and reflect your tastes.
Be mindful of the specific room you’re decorating. For instance, if your open shelves are in a home office, incorporating filing storage or organizational baskets for paperwork can keep things both stylish and functional. In a kitchen, display items like plates, bowls, and cookbooks, which serve both an aesthetic and practical purpose. By thoughtfully choosing what to display, you can ensure your shelves are both beautiful and purposeful.
Gossip Interiors Inc. Project Name: Danforth
