Curating shelves is one of my favorite things to do for home decor! I love the challenge to have intention with each piece chosen, and then the reward (or slight adrenaline rush in my case 😂) of seeing how it all comes together beautifully.
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On our main level, there is a small half bath that has the toilet placed in its own little cove. Since we have moved in, I wanted to find a way to make that cove more cozy-feeling. Painting the room helped some, but I was excited to get some floating shelves in to make the space feel more complete.
I’m very happy with how this space turned out, so I wanted to share the nuts and bolts of how I decorate shelves.
- Have an idea of what you want the finished space to look like when it’s done. I don’t start purchasing decor or decorating until I have a clear image in my mind of what I want it to look like. This may seem obvious, but before I would tend to buy things just because I liked them, but it didn’t necessarily mean they would work together in a space. Pinterest browsing and aisle surfing is helpful to get a good image in your mind. This isn’t to say things always turn out exactly how I envisioned, but it does help!
- The height you mount the shelves matters! Most people hang their shelves and wall art too high. You want things to end up at eye level for a person of average height. When things are hung too high it tends to feel disconnected somehow.
- Texture, height, and odd numbers. It is SO important when decorating shelves to have variety in texture. On these shelves alone I have wood, leather, wicker, glass, paper, candles, and a faux plant. All of these things come together to create interest and warmth. I also try to consider the height of items when putting together shelves. Making a triangle shape or having general variation in height is pleasing to the eye. Lastly, I try to group pieces in odd numbers. I’m not sure there’s a science to this, but it tends to feel more “right” in the end.
- Keep a color scheme in mind. I love neutrals and natural-feeling decor, so my main colors in this space are brown and green. Having a third color to make things pop can be nice, too. Essentially, keep in mind that you want the items to be on a complimentary color scheme.
- Add your personal touches. Always! In this case, there’s a picture of my daughter that I love, a couple of my favorite books, and a leather journal that I was given as a bridesmaids gift. When I see those items they remind me go things that matter to me, and it makes me enjoy the space even more!
- Have some blank space. You want to leave some breathing room on the shelves so that they don’t feel cluttered or overdone. I think the amount of “stuff” that is acceptable in one space varies from person to person, but this is a good general rule to stick by.
Here are some links to similar items to help you achieve the look you’re going for! I hope you find something that’s perfect for your space!
Floating shelves: Set of 2 Light Walnut, Set of 3 Dark Walnut
Battery Operated Candles: Set of 9 in Various Heights
Glass Apothecary Jars: Set of 3 with fillings included, Set of 3 (I love the shape on these!)