Simplified Decorating How to Decorate Shelves Beautifully and Easily
Shelves are more than just practical storage they’re also an opportunity to express your personal style. Whether you’re styling a bookshelf, kitchen shelf, or a floating wall shelf in the hallway, decorating shelves doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few thoughtful choices, you can create stylish displays that look balanced, curated, and cohesive.
In this simplified decorating guide, we’ll walk you through how to decorate shelves step by step, offering easy ideas suitable for any UK home.
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Before you begin decorating, remove everything from your shelves. Give each surface a good dust and take a moment to evaluate the space. Consider the purpose of the shelf—whether it’s purely decorative, functional, or a bit of both.
Tip:
Take a photo of your empty shelves. This can help you visualise how your display will come together as you add items back in.
2. Choose a Colour Scheme
A cohesive colour palette brings harmony to your shelf decor. Pick two to three main colours to work with. This might be based on the room’s theme—muted earth tones for a Scandi-style room, or pops of bold colour for a more eclectic space.
Popular Shelf Colour Combos:
- White, beige, and sage green (calming and modern)
- Black, brass, and cream (elegant and striking)
- Navy, wood tones, and grey (cosy and traditional)
3. Add Books for Character
Books are classic shelf staples. Stack them vertically and horizontally to add height and variation. Turn some spines out for a minimal look, or colour-code them for a modern feel.
Quick Tip:
Use large hardbacks as risers for small decorative pieces like candles or vases.
4. Incorporate Different Heights and Shapes
A shelf filled with items of the same size can look flat. Vary the height and shape of objects to create visual interest. Think tall vases, medium-sized frames, and small accents like trinket dishes or candles.
Ideas to Mix In:
- Ceramic pots or jugs
- Glass cloches
- Wooden bowls
- Picture frames
- Miniature plants
5. Add Greenery and Natural Elements
Plants breathe life into your shelves—literally and visually. Whether real or faux, greenery softens the look and adds an organic touch. You could also include other natural materials like wood, stone, or woven baskets.
Best Plants for Shelves:
- String of Pearls (hanging)
- Snake Plant (upright)
- Pilea (compact and leafy)
- Faux eucalyptus stems in a jar
6. Layer Objects
Instead of placing everything in a straight row, try layering items. Place a small photo frame in front of a larger one, or a candle in front of a stack of books. This creates depth and a more styled, natural look.
Tip:
Use the “triangle method”—group items so they form a triangle in height. This is pleasing to the eye and helps guide visual flow.
7. Balance Visual Weight
Distribute visual weight evenly across the shelf. For example, avoid placing all your heavy or dark items on one side. Spread out larger pieces and balance them with groups of smaller objects.
Easy Formula:
- One large item
- One medium item
- One or two small fillers
8. Add a Personal Touch
Your shelves should reflect who you are. Mix in personal mementoes like framed postcards, travel souvenirs, vintage finds, or even a piece of your child’s art. These make the display uniquely yours.
9. Use Decorative Storage
Baskets, small boxes, or lidded containers are a great way to combine storage and style—especially on lower shelves. They hide clutter while adding texture to the shelf arrangement.
10. Don’t Overcrowd
Negative space is just as important as the decor itself. Don’t feel the need to fill every inch. Leaving breathing room makes the overall display feel lighter, cleaner, and more intentional.
Bonus: Decorating Shelves in Different Rooms
Living Room:
Add candles, framed art, books, and a small sculpture or two.
Kitchen:
Display pretty mugs, spice jars, cookbooks, and trailing herbs like basil or thyme.
Bathroom:
Use shelves for rolled towels, bath salts, small jars, and a diffuser.
Bedroom:
Include soft lighting, your current reads, and meaningful keepsakes.
Final Thoughts
Decorating shelves doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. With a few simple principles—like choosing a colour palette, adding varied heights, and incorporating personal items—you can create a look that feels both styled and effortless. Whether you’re aiming for minimalist, vintage charm or bold eclectic vibes, your shelves can become one of the most eye-catching areas in your home.
