We all love the extra storage and display space that decorative shelving provides, but the hardest part is resisting the urge to fill every nook and cranny with “stuff”. I know.  I’m always editing and rearranging my own in persuit of  shelf- restraint.  Knowing when enough is enough is the challenge.

(click on pictures to enlarge)

I think of home shelving (built-ins, free standing bookcases, wall mounted shelves, niches, etc.) in two categories…

1. Decorative public shelving and display pieces.

2. Functional private storage and utility pieces.

The first is decorative displays.  These reside in the public areas of a home, and are a pivotal part of the design statement in the room.  The living room, dining room, family room, kitchen, and entry are areas open to public viewing and require some  finesse and artistic expression when arranging. If you need to store more  in the room, add closed cabinets on the bottom third of the unit. The overall unit acts as an art and architectural piece for the wall, as well as functional storage. So, combining the two takes some shelf- discipline. The objective is to balance both.

The second category of  storage shelving is mostly functional private storage. This is storage that exists in private areas of the home, offices, dens, workrooms, and libraries. These areas can contain work, school, home and personal materials to store and access as needed. These should be well organized, but not necessarily as artistically and openly arranged as in public areas. This is where all the excess goes after editing the public areas. So, you can be  more shelf- indulgent  here.

There are no exact “rules” when decorating public shelving. Principles and elements of design apply ( Google these for defination), but, here are some guidelines…

• Less is more, avoid clutter
• Display only the best of your collections
• Group smaller collections together for bigger impact
• Use larger single pieces rather than lots of small pieces
• Add lifts and levels with books or decorative boxes
• Add some greenery
• Add lighting to accent displays
• Stay within a style ( country birdhouses and contemporary art glass don’t mix well)
• Use large pieces in larger spaces and small pieces in small spaces
• Step back and look for balance, interest and simplicity

So, be shelf -assured, if you follow these guidelines, shelf- confidence will prevail, and you will be shelf- satisfied with the outcome.

 Being shelf- conscious, is very shelf -rewarding.  Any thoughts?