How to Style Open Shelves

Open shelving is a growing trend that's here to stay. Not only does it offer a practical storage solution, it also gives you the opportunity to display your favourite items and showcase your personal style.

In this blog, we'll explore how you can give your shelves a fresh new look!

If you're adding new shelving to your home, then the first thing to consider is the shelves themselves. Think about the size and space surrounding your shelves - you'll want to ensure your shelves are large enough for the room without overcrowding it. If you have a particularly large room, you may consider multiple sets of shelves on the wall.

The size of your shelves will also dictate the shelf brackets your require. Shelves that will hold a lot of weight will require larger brackets to support them. For particularly heavy or long shelves, consider using a third bracket in the middle to help stabilise the weight.

It's important to note that shelf brackets don't have to be boring - the right shelf brackets can completely transform the look of a shelf and even enhance your existing hardware. Selecting a finish is a great place to start.

If you're using wooden shelves, a dark finish like Aged Bronze or Matt Black will help highlight the natural grain of the wood. For painted timber shelves, a warmer finish like Aged Brass or Polished Bronze will add a sense of homeliness to the space. Alternatively, a cool-toned finish like Polished Chrome or Satin Chrome will bring a contemporary flair to any interior.

When choosing a finish for your shelf brackets, think about the existing hardware in your home. Coordinating finer details like door handles and cabinet knobs with your shelf brackets is a great way to create a sense of cohesion within your space.

Another aspect to consider is the style of your shelf brackets. Take the Chalfont shelf bracket, for example. This minimalist design features clean lines and an angular shape which works splendidly in contemporary interiors. Pair with complementary products like the Brompton lever on rose handle and Plain edge pulls for a modern aesthetic.

For period properties, a more decorative style of shelf bracket may be preferred, like the Tyne. The delicate curvature of this design pairs well with ornate pieces like the Hinton lever handle and Beehive door knob set. Opt for a traditional finish like Aged Brass to complete the look.

Above: From The Anvil's Aged Brass Tyne shelf bracket paired with matching Hinton lever door handle and Beehive mortice knob set.

 

Once you've chosen your hardware and fitted your shelves, you're ready to begin styling. Start by creating a central focus point. You can do this by placing your favourite conversation piece in the middle of your shelf and working around it. Great examples of conversation pieces can include large candles, artwork, sculptures, vases, and natural forms like seashells or crystals.

Above: wooden shelves styled with books and houseplants and fitted using From The Anvil's Aged Bronze Abingdon shelf brackets.

Surrounding this piece, add elements of varying heights, like smaller candles, trinkets, books, ornaments etc. to create a dynamic feel. Try using items of the same colour across multiple shelves to tie the look together. In the kitchen this may include matching jars, bowls, mugs or recipe books, whereas in the bathroom you may showcase toiletries, reed diffusers, towels, or trinkets.

Above: kitchen shelves fitted with From The Anvil's Polished Chrome Abingdon shelf brackets.