Open shelves or glass front cupboards fit in all different design styles. It gives you an opportunity to show off your collections and other favorite finds. Styling shelves can be a little tricky. Often you will decorate the shelves but think something isn’t quite right and it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what the problem is. With a few tweaks, you will love the look of your shelves.
The Rule of Threes
Keep the rule of three in mind. To create vignettes, group three different items of different heights and sizes. You can have more than three. but odd numbers work best.
Be Intentional With Your Choices
Choose items that work together. There should be a sort of theme. It can be a collection of pottery or a grouping of your favorite thrifted finds. Even though you want the items to vary, having a common theme will tie everything together.
Choose a Color Scheme When Styling Shelves
Choose two or three colors, not including a neutral and stick with those colors as best you can. This also doesn’t include metallics such as a brass candlestick, for example. As you move things around, you will start to notice what works best. A beautiful vignette will catch your interest and be pleasing to the eye.
Styling Shelves Takes Time
What I thought would take fifteen minutes, took a couple days before I was happy with it. Think of it as putting a puzzle together. Try to avoid purchasing something just to fill out the shelves. If you have to convince yourself you like something, it’s almost guaranteed that the item will be donated back to the thrift store within a year. I am currently gathering up items to donate now and everything in that box is something that I convinced myself to purchase. Wait until you find something you love. Fill empty spaces with candles, potted plants or a miniature framed painting or photo.
