Simple Decorating Ideas to Transform Built-In Shelves

Take your built-in shelves from ordinary to extraordinary with a few shelf styling tips.

Are you tired of your boring built-in shelving that lacks personality and style? In this article, we will show you how to take your ordinary shelves from drab to fab. By utilizing different heights, incorporating decorative items, customizing to fit your style, and playing with open shelving, you can transform your living room into a stunning space that truly stands out. Get ready to elevate your design and create a space that reflects your unique personality and tastes.

How to Transform Built-in Shelves for a Huge Impact

Utilizing Different Heights for Visual Interest

One effective way to add visual interest to your built-in shelves is by utilizing different heights. By varying the heights of the items you place on the shelves, you can create a more dynamic and engaging display. This technique not only adds visual appeal but also helps to break up the monotony of a row of items all sitting at the same level.

For example, you can see in my built-in bookshelves in our bonus room that I included a variety of objects at different heights. Because several of these items are smaller or the same height, it's important to draw a focal point and create dimension. Plants, candles or tall vases are good options for taller items.

You can also stack decorative objects to achieve the height you need. That is what I did for these built-in bookcases. Layering with books or decorative boxes is a great way to do that.

As you incorporate decorative items to add personality, consider how playing with different heights can enhance the overall look of your shelves.

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Built-in Shelves Decor Items to Add Personality

Another way to enhance the look of your open shelves is by incorporating decorative items that add personality. This is where you can really let your personal style shine through. Consider adding small objects such as:

Framed pictures you love like family photos or artwork
Unique sculptures
Favorite things you have gather traveling
Quirky knick-knacks
Your favorite faux or real plants
A hobby collection to display
Family heirlooms
A book collection you love

These are all things that can infuse your empty shelves with character! Select items that speak to your individual taste and interests. As you continue to customize your built-ins to fit your style, keep in mind how these decorative elements can help tell the story of who you are and what you love.

Customizing Built-Ins to Fit Your Style

Make sure to consider how each decorative element contributes to the overall aesthetic of the space as you customize. Don't pick random items to fill your shelves. If you love modern, choose contemporary pieces. If you love more of a rustic farmhouse style, pick decor that follows that theme. Choose meaningful items that are important to your taste and style.

This also applies as you consider the finish of your shelving. I used a white paint on my built-in shelves in our bonus room. The white blends in really well and fits the existing finishes in the room. But for my main family room I opted for modern wood shelves to fit in with a neutral color scheme.

Playing with Open Shelving for a Modern Look

Open shelving is one of my favorite shelf styling options. It offers a minimalist and contemporary look that can instantly update the feel of your space. By removing built-in cabinets and doors or opting for shelving units with clean lines and slim profiles, it creates a visually lighter and more open feel in the entire room.

I love the open shelving look I designed for my entertainment center. The wood shelves look beautiful against the white space. I purposefully wanted floor-to-ceiling shelves to have more freedom to display decor. And I have plenty of storage space to include both small and large pieces.

Incorporating open shelving into your built-ins allows you to showcase your favorite items while also creating a modern and airy atmosphere in your home. The simplicity and versatility of open shelving make it a popular choice for those looking to achieve a sleek and contemporary look.

And don't forget, open shelving can be put anywhere! Living rooms, kitchens and bathrooms are some of the most popular places.

Other Shelving Options

Look at these other options for built-in shelves to inspire a few DIY ideas.

Built-in Shelves

Incorporating different heights, decorative items, and custom touches can transform your built-in shelves from ordinary to extraordinary. By playing with open shelving, you can achieve a modern and stylish look that will make your living room stand out.

Start implementing these creative ideas to create a space that truly reflects your style and personality. As you elevate the design of your built-ins, remember that the details make all the difference.

Happy Decorating!

Brooke