Open shelving has taken the interior design world by storm—and for good reason. It’s functional, it’s stylish, and when done right, it turns everyday storage into a show-stopping design moment. But let’s be honest: styling an open shelf can be tricky. If you’re not careful, it can look cluttered instead of curated.
As someone who lives and breathes Pinterest SEO and interior blogging, I’m here to give you the inside scoop on how to style an open shelf like a designer, so it not only looks good in real life, but also performs beautifully on Pinterest and Google.
Why Open Shelving Is So Popular
Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why:
- Open shelves make a space feel more open and airy
- They offer a chance to display personality through decor
- They’re one of the most searched-for home styling trends on Pinterest (hello, Pinterest SEO goldmine!)
Whether you’re styling kitchen shelves, a living room wall, or even a bathroom nook, these tips will help you get that effortlessly styled look that designers pull off so well.
Step-by-Step: How to Style an Open Shelf Like a Designer
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Take everything off your shelves. Yes—everything. This helps you reset and think like a designer. Clean surfaces, clean mind.
2. Pick a Color Palette
Designers always use a cohesive palette. Neutrals, earth tones, or black-and-white are trending now. Use your shelf as a canvas—then layer in decor with matching hues and textures.
3. Balance Function with Aesthetic
Your shelves should be both pretty and practical. Stack a few cookbooks or bowls in the kitchen, mix in art prints or candles in the living room. Think: purpose meets personality.
4. Use the Rule of Thirds
Styling in odd numbers (especially in sets of 3) is pleasing to the eye. Group items in threes—like a vase, a stack of books, and a small sculpture—and vary their height.
5. Layer Like a Pro
Don’t line everything up. Layer taller items behind shorter ones, overlap picture frames slightly, and lean objects against the wall for a more relaxed, lived-in feel.
6. Mix Materials
Add warmth and contrast with a mix of textures—glass, wood, ceramic, metal. This creates depth and visual interest, which is exactly what makes a shelf feel “designer.”
7. Add a Touch of Green
Whether it’s a trailing pothos or a small potted herb, a little greenery breathes life into your shelves and keeps them from feeling too staged.
8. Edit Ruthlessly
Once you’ve styled, take a step back. Remove anything that feels too busy or redundant. Less is more—and that’s especially true when your shelf is out in the open.
Final Thoughts
Styling an open shelf like a designer doesn’t mean you have to be one. With the right eye (and this guide!), you can turn a simple shelf into a sophisticated focal point that elevates your whole space.
Whether you’re refreshing your kitchen, giving your living room a glow-up, or creating scroll-stopping content for Pinterest, a well-styled shelf is a small detail that delivers big impact.
