
We’ve been enjoying time at home with our children, but can’t stop looking at all the small things we’d love to change in our home. For many of you, I’m sure it’s those open shelves that constantly seem messy and you can’t figure out how to decorate it accordingly. What you have going on might also have worked for you in the past but is starting to feel old – I know that’s the case for me!
Mastering the art of “shelfy-ing” can sometimes be a challenge, but today we will be sharing our five tips to help refresh your shelves and get it right!
Starting with a blank canvas is always easier than trying to work around existing layouts and items. The items you thought would work might not and sometimes they need to be placed elsewhere. That’s why starting fresh with a clean slate will be easier. Also, by starting from scratch you can really assess which items make the cut. We sometimes hold on to accessories and decorative items for long after they bring us any joy. Really look at each item before it makes it back to the shelf and ask yourself if you still love it.
Look at the pile of accessories and note if there are different heights and sizes. If not, we suggest you find some other items around the house or buy new to help bring varied scales to your shelves! We love playing with height and size through vases, artwork, and leaning books. Bear in mind the height you have between your shelves while shopping. The items won’t work if it doesn’t fit – we’ve made this mistake one or two times.
Depending on the number of shelves to fill, group items strategically. Try to avoid similar grouping repeated on every shelf. It can feel too staged and repetitive. For example, if you have a grouping of two vases on the right side of one shelf, make sure not to repeat of two items on the shelf right above it. Books are also great to combine. Laid flat or upright with a bookend to one side always works out!
Art is a fun, versatile way to fill in the spaces and add some character or personality to your shelves. This is an easy way to tie in the colours of you have in the rest of your decor. Family photos can also be used. Playing with varied sizes for frames again is always a good idea and lean them against the back rather than using the stand on the back of a picture frame.
You’d be surprised at how many times we step back to see what we’ve done and moved things around. Don’t be discouraged, even the best decorators do it! Shelves create focal points, but also space where you can bring in texture, colours, and character to any room! Don’t forget, bare spaces are sometimes good to have. Try to avoid cluttering your shelves and keep some breathing room. Last but not least, have fun with it and change it up often. Your decor should bring you joy and if not, something needs to change.
If you’re looking for new accessories to fill an empty space or refresh a tired one, head over to shop our favourite finds at Hibou Home.
Hibou Design & Co. specializes in interior design & turn key servicing. Whether you’re looking for a one-room renovation or a complete makeover, we’re a full-service interior design company based in Montreal, Quebec. Our goal is to turn your house into a home.
Address | 1 Chabanel Ouest, Montreal, Qc H2N 1N3
Phone | +1 (514) 574 0015
General Inquiries | info@hiboudesignco.com
New Products | trades@hiboudesignco.com