Styling shelves might look effortless on Instagram—but behind every perfectly curated display is a clever balance of function, personality, and style. Whether you're working with floating shelves, a bookcase, or built-ins, learning the art of shelf styling can completely transform a room.
Ready to turn cluttered chaos into curated charm? Here’s your ultimate guide to styling shelves like a pro.
Start with a Clean Slate
Clear everything off your shelves first. This lets you see the space with fresh eyes and start building your new look from the ground up. Don’t forget to give the shelves a quick dust while you're at it, clean surfaces = clean lines..
Use Decorative Objects with Purpose
Choose décor that tells a story—pieces you love, that reflect your personality or travels.
Some shelf styling staples are candles, sculptural vases, framed mini art or photos. You can also use decorative bowls or beads, textured ceramics or small trays or boxes.
Balance Books & Décor
Books are the foundation of most styled shelves—but don’t feel pressured to fill every inch with them. Try stacking some vertically and others horizontally, or use books as a base to elevate candles, vases, or decorative objects. You can also choose pretty covers or turn spines inward for a cleaner look.
Add Height & Layering
To avoid a flat, one-dimensional look, vary the height and depth of your items. Mix tall and short pieces (think vases, candlesticks, framed art) and layer items by placing smaller pieces in front of larger ones. You can also use risers or stacked books to lift smaller objects. This adds visual interest and makes your shelves look thoughtfully styled.
Choose a Colour Palette
Stick to a cohesive colour scheme for a polished look. That doesn’t mean everything has to match—but picking a palette (e.g., neutrals with pops of green and gold) helps everything flow. For a minimal & modern look opt for black, white, natural wood, and soft beige. If your style is more earthy and warm try terracotta, forest green, cream, and brass. For coastal calm use soft blues, whites, rattan, and driftwood tones
Incorporate Natural Elements
Bring life (literally) to your shelves by adding plants, dried flowers, or natural textures like rattan, wood, or stone. You can try a trailing plant like pothos or ivy or a small vase of pampas grass. A wooden bowl or tray is a great way to break up glossy surfaces.
Leave Space to Breathe
Negative space (aka blank spots) is your friend! You don’t need to fill every inch—open space gives your pieces room to shine and avoids a cluttered look.
Think of your shelf like a gallery wall: every item deserves its moment.
Step Back & Tweak
Once everything’s in place, take a step back and view the shelves from across the room. Are the heights balanced? Does one side feel heavier than the other? Sometimes all it takes is swapping two pieces or removing one item to get the perfect look. Even better, take a photo. It helps you spot what’s working (and what’s not) instantly.
Shelf styling is equal parts art and play. There’s no one way to do it—just principles that help guide your creativity. Trust your eye, have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to switch things up seasonally.