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Simple swaps to create design you’ll love to live with

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Style the Shelf

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to styling shelves. It’s an opportunity to showcase your creativity and personality. Experiment and make it your own. Remember, you’re designing a space YOU will love to live with.

FAQs when Styling the Shelf

  • Balance is key. Distribute items of varying heights, colors, textures and sizes throughout the shelves. Try to create a sense of symmetry or asymmetry, depending on your style preference.

  • Consider the room’s existing color palette and choose complementary or contrasting colors for your shelf decor. A cohesive color scheme can tie the look together.

  • Avoid overcrowding. Leave some empty space to allow your pieces to breathe. Start small, you can always add, edit and rotate your pieces to keep it fresh.

  • Books, decorative objects, plants (real or faux), framed photos and art are all good pieces to use when styling the shelf. You can add personal touches by adding pieces that reflect your personality and interests (family photos, souvenirs and heirlooms).

  • Trends are great for providing inspiration, but be sure to prioritize your personal style and preferences. Don’t be afraid to mix elements that are classic and contemporary.

  • This varies from person to person based on your preference. It is always fun to refresh your shelves seasonally or when you have major design changes in your home. Keep in mind, refreshing your shelves doesn’t have to be expensive or challenging, try swapping one or two items on each shelf.

Style the Mantle

There are no strict rules for styling mantle and personal preferences play a significant role. Find the balance and find the pieces YOU love to live with.

FAQs when Styling the Mantle

  • Consider a mix of art, decorative objects and greenery for everyday mantle decor. You can use a combination of framed phots, mirrors, candle sticks and vases to create a balanced grouping. It works well to start with one feature or statement piece and find other pieces that work well with it.

  • Select colors that complement your room’s overall vibe. You can match the mantle decor to the rooms existing color palette or choose complementary colors to create contrast.

  • To increase visual interest, the pieces on your mantle should vary in height. Start with the tallest item and place that in the center (or even a little off center if you prefer) and work outward mixing shorter and taller items.

  • Both symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements can work, depending on your style preference. Symmetry provides a more formal and traditional look, while asymmetry tends to look more relaxed and creative. The key is finding balance in your arrangement.

  • Swap out and/or add a couple pieces of your mantle decor to reflect the current season or holiday. You can change the stems in your vase, swap out your art and/or add a themed piece to your existing decor.

  • Avoid overcrowding the mantle with too many items, neglecting balance and using items that are too small or too large for the space. Make sure the pieces you choose for your mantle complement the room’s style.