3 Tips to Styling Your Shelves & Tabletops Like a Pro
In my opinion, styling a room is like accessorizing an outfit. You can have on the most beautiful garments, but until you put on the jewelry, it just doesn’t feel complete. That is how I view styling a room. You can have the most amazing pieces of furniture, but if the space isn’t styled properly, it just doesn’t feel…finished. It is the layering of items that really make a space feel inviting - whether you are living there or trying to sell your home. Styling contributes to the overall personality of a space and reflects that people that live there.
Tip #1: Create Stunning Groupings
When styling shelves or tabletops, I like to first pull out all of the items that I am considering for the space - taking into account colors, shapes and sizes. I’ll create groups of items, ideally in odd numbers, and start placing them to see what feels right. For smaller items that may otherwise get lost, I will use trays to help corral them.
If I have a really large space, I’ll use a larger tray in the center and build out around it. If a space is feeling cluttered, I’ll place a singular item that can stand alone, using the free space around it to help highlight the object.
Tip #2: Vary Height and Color for Dynamic Arrangements
Taking height and color into account when grouping and displaying items is key. If I need to create height, I’ll display an item atop of a pretty box. Additionally, a stack of beautiful coffee table books works to add both color and height - it can also help corral smaller items placed on top. I’m a huge fan of blue and white porcelain, so I’ll use these items to achieve both height and color in a space.
Tip #3: Focus on Balance
When styling a space, I prefer to focus more on balance than symmetry - I like to design spaces that have the visual effect of being balanced but aren’t necessarily symmetrical. For example, if I have a console table with a large table lamp on one side, I’ll place an item or grouping of items on the opposite side that helps create balance.
Mixing materials when styling is also a key component. Mixing stone with ceramics and glass adds depth and interest. For example, I’ll place a stack of books next to a wooden object and put a glass ball on top of the books.
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Until next time,
Julie