Styling Shelves

Designer Christina Wikman turned our fireplace built in shelves from plain to gorgeous with her styling. But decorating shelves can be tricky, they require a balance of items and heights and textures. All within the confines of your shelf size. Christina talked us through her process and have her top tips for creating beautiful shelves.

Christina’s approach to Jewett Farms + Co. shelves

I loved the warm tones of these built-ins with the wood paneling, countertops, and organic green paint finish so I wanted to play that up and style them with rustic objects and books with patina. I love to use antiques that add character and interest to bookshelves interspersed with old and new books. I think bookshelf objects should say a lot about who owns them and showcase their interests through found objects, items purchased on vacations or travels, and books that you love. To jump start a collection I love thrift shops for antique silver and brass pieces.

Guidelines for style

When styling shelves I like to start with the largest objects first placed in a balanced way throughout. You want to have objects with variety of scale, texture, and form to make the shelves most interesting. After the large items are placed add in your books and layering pieces. I like to use small pieces of art, trays, or even antique cutting boards to layer into the backs of the shelves. Finally, finish off the look by adding in smaller accents in varying finishes. I collect small bowls, interesting vessels, old brass and pewter, candlesticks, and other antique pieces to layer in for an interesting mix. It’s best to vary the finishes and textures within each shelf rather than all wood or all ceramic items grouped together. Mix it up! 

Don’t forget the greenery

One of my favorite ways to add some life to shelves is with plants. In fall and winter I love magnolia, dried hydrangeas, or other dried pods and flowers to add a touch of life and architectural interest to shelves or mantles. In spring and summer a small potted plant, succulents, or fern adds the perfect pop of green. 

You can see this gorgeous display in person at our Boston Design Center showroom. and learn more about Christina and her work here.