How to Style Open Shelves: Tips for a Perfectly Curated Look

Open shelves are a popular home decor trend that combines functionality with style. However, they can quickly become cluttered without the right approach or lack visual appeal. The key to styling open shelves is finding the perfect balance between practicality and aesthetics. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips to help you arrange your open shelves to achieve a perfectly curated, functional, and beautiful look.

1. Start with a Clean Slate

Before diving into styling, start with a clean slate. Remove everything from your shelves and take a moment to assess the space. Think about the purpose of the shelves—are they in the kitchen for dishes, in the living room for books and decor, or in the bathroom for toiletries? Understanding the function of your shelves will guide you in choosing the right items for display.

Tip: Wipe down the shelves and take this opportunity to declutter. Only keep items that you genuinely love or find functional.

2. Balance Practicality and Style

To achieve a perfectly curated look, blend practical items with decorative pieces. Start by placing functional items like dishes, bowls, or books as the foundation. Then, layer in decorative items such as vases, framed photos, or small sculptures to add personality and visual interest.

Tip: Mix textures and materials—such as wood, glass, metal, and ceramics—to create a dynamic and visually pleasing display.

3. Create Visual Interest with Varying Heights and Shapes

A flat, monotonous row of items can make your shelves look dull and uninspired. Instead, create visual interest by varying the height and shape of the objects on your shelves. Stack books horizontally and vertically, or place a tall vase next to a shorter, round object. This variation draws the eye and adds dimension to your display.

Tip: Use stackable items like books or trays to create different levels and heights, adding depth and intrigue to your arrangement.

4. Group Items in Odd Numbers

One of the easiest ways to make your shelves look professionally styled is by grouping items in odd numbers. Grouping items in threes or fives creates a more natural, less forced look than even-numbered arrangements. This rule of thumb works well for any decor item, from vases and candlesticks to framed photos and small sculptures.

Tip: Place the tallest item in the back and group smaller items in front to create a layered effect that adds depth and visual appeal.

5. Incorporate a Color Palette

To create a cohesive and harmonious look, stick to a color palette that complements your room decor. Choose two to three colors that work well together and repeat them throughout the shelves. This approach ties everything together and avoids a chaotic, mismatched appearance.

Tip: Consider the colors of your room’s decor and choose complementary tones for your shelves to ensure a seamless flow from shelf to room.

6. Add Personal Touches

Add personal touches to make your shelves reflect your personality. Family photos, travel souvenirs, or handmade crafts can make your shelves more unique and special. These individual items add character to your shelves, making them more meaningful and enjoyable.

Tip: Mix personal items with more neutral, decorative pieces to balance personal sentiment with overall aesthetic appeal.

7. Embrace Negative Space

One of the most common mistakes when styling open shelves is overcrowding them. Resist the urge to fill every inch of space. Instead, embrace negative space—it allows the eye to rest and makes each item stand out more. Leaving space around objects can make your shelves look more airy and organized.

Tip: Think of each shelf as its own little vignette. Leave space around groupings to create a balanced and curated look.

8. Rotate Items Seasonally

Just like any other aspect of home decor, your shelves can be updated seasonally. Rotate items to reflect different holidays, seasons, or personal preferences. This keeps your shelves looking fresh and prevents them from becoming stagnant or boring.

Tip: Use seasonal decor items, such as small pumpkins for fall or seashells for summer, to give your shelves a fresh, timely update.

9. Use Bookends and Trays to Organize

Bookends and trays are not just functional but also great decor pieces. Bookends keep books upright and organized, and trays corral smaller items like candles or coasters. These items help maintain order while adding an extra layer of style.

Tip: Choose bookends and trays that complement your overall decor style, whether modern, rustic, or minimalist.

10. Step Back and Adjust

Once you’ve arranged your shelves, step back and assess the overall look. Does anything feel out of place? Is there a spot that feels too cluttered or too empty? Don’t be afraid to adjust and rearrange until you’re satisfied with the look. Styling shelves is an art form that takes a little tweaking to perfect.

Tip: Snap a photo of your shelves with your phone. Sometimes, looking at a picture helps you see the space in a new light and identify areas for improvement.

The Bottom Line 

Styling open shelves is a great way to showcase your style and personality while keeping your space organized and functional. By following these tips—starting with a clean slate, balancing practicality with style, creating visual interest, embracing negative space, and more—you can create beautifully curated, functional, and aesthetically pleasing shelves. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to styling shelves; the best part is experimenting with what feels suitable for your space and reflects your unique taste.

Ready to transform your shelves into a perfectly curated display? Start experimenting with these tips today and watch your space come to life!