Tips for Styling Your Floating Shelves
Floating shelves are not just for holding items—they’re an opportunity to showcase your style and transform any room. Whether you want to keep things sleek and minimalist or fill your shelves with personal touches, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few tips to help you style your floating shelves like a pro:

1. Mix Functional and Decorative Items
Floating shelves are as much about function as they are about style. They’re perfect for holding everyday items like books, plants, and kitchen essentials, but they’re also great for displaying decorative pieces. When styling, combine functional objects with personal décor to create a balanced look. For example:
- Stack a few books alongside a small sculpture or vase.
- Add a plant or two for some greenery and life.
- Mix in functional items like jars, containers, or even a small clock to keep it practical.
By mixing form and function, your shelves will look well-curated while still being useful.

2. Create a Focal Point with Larger Items
To give your shelves some visual weight, add one or two larger items as focal points. A statement piece can draw attention and set the tone for the rest of your decor. This could be a large piece of artwork, a chunky vase, or a vintage lamp. Surround the focal point with smaller items to keep things interesting, but let the larger pieces take center stage.
3. Play with Height and Depth
Don’t be afraid to play with the vertical space on your shelves. Mixing items of varying heights creates visual interest and prevents your shelves from feeling flat or one-dimensional. You could stack books horizontally, place taller vases at the back, or hang framed art just above your shelves. Layering items, such as a smaller piece in front of a larger one, can also add depth and dimension to your display.
4. Use Color to Tie Everything Together
Whether it’s through books, décor, or even the items you place on the shelves, color plays a big role in styling. Choose a color scheme to help create a cohesive look. Neutral tones can keep things calm and sophisticated, while pops of color can add energy and personality. A few hints of a bold color, like red or navy, can make your shelves pop, while softer hues like pastels or earthy tones will create a more subdued, balanced look.

5. Personalize with Meaningful Items
Adding personal touches is what truly makes your shelves feel like home. Display family photos, souvenirs from your travels, or sentimental gifts that make you smile every time you see them. By incorporating these meaningful items, you give your shelves a lived-in feel and ensure they reflect your personality.
6. Keep It Simple
While it’s tempting to fill every inch of your floating shelves, sometimes less is more. A cluttered shelf can overwhelm the space and detract from the beauty of the items you’re displaying. Consider the space you have available and aim to leave some empty areas for breathing room. A few carefully chosen pieces often look better than overcrowding the shelves.
7. Refresh Seasonally
One of the great things about floating shelves is how easy it is to refresh them as the seasons change. Swap out decor for something new—add pumpkins and cozy candles in fall, or fresh flowers and beachy decor in summer. A seasonal refresh allows you to keep your shelves looking fresh and in tune with the changing seasons, without having to do a complete overhaul.
Ready to Style Your Shelves?
If you’re looking to add custom floating shelves to your space, I’d love to help you find the perfect fit for your home. Whether you’re styling a modern living room, creating a cozy reading nook, or organizing your kitchen, floating shelves are the perfect way to elevate any space. Contact me today to discuss your custom project.