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Open shelving can be a beautiful way to display your favorite pieces, but it’s easy to overthink it, and end up with clutter instead of character. Whether you're styling kitchen shelves, a living room built-in, or a floating shelf in the hallway, the goal is to strike a balance between functional and beautiful. This post will walk you through simple, no-stress steps to style shelves that feel curated, not chaotic.
Clear everything off your shelves so you’re working with a blank canvas.
This allows you to be intentional with what goes back on.
Group items by category (books, greenery, objects, frames) before restyling.
Choose one larger item as the visual “anchor” for each shelf.
This could be a stack of books, a framed photo, or a low basket.
Let the eye rest by avoiding too many small items without structure.
Use the Rule of Three to create balance and movement.
Combine different shapes and heights—like a candle, a plant, and a small framed print.
Vary the groupings across the shelf for an effortless, stylish look.
Shelves feel flat without texture and variation.
Mix wood, glass, greenery, and metal to add dimension.
Use risers, books, or shallow bowls to create height differences.
Resist the urge to fill every inch.
Negative space helps each piece stand out and gives the shelf a clean, relaxed feel.
It also keeps your shelves looking purposeful instead of crowded.
A touch of greenery makes every shelf feel fresh and alive.
Try a small potted plant, a trailing faux vine, or a sprig of eucalyptus in a bud vase.
This softens hard lines and adds organic texture.
Open shelves are a great spot for subtle seasonal styling.
In summer, add a strand of wooden beads, a light-colored frame, or a ceramic bowl of lemons.
Just swap a few small accents to keep things feeling current.
Open shelving doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few thoughtful pieces and a little breathing room, you can create a shelf display that reflects your style and feels completely put-together!
✨ Need a few shelf-perfect pieces? Click here to shop shelf styling essentials from The Farmhouse.
