Decorating / June 04, 2025

Shelf Styling Secrets: What Interior Designers Actually Use

Have you ever gazed at a perfectly styled shelf in a magazine or a beautifully curated home and wondered, "How do they do that?" It seems effortless, yet every object feels intentional, every book perfectly placed. It’s not magic, we promise! It’s a thoughtful process that interior designers master, blending aesthetics with personality. Ready to uncover their secrets and transform your own shelving from cluttered to curated?

By Trade Program

Where Do You Start When Styling a Shelf?

When it comes to shelf styling, thinking like a designer begins with a strong foundation. Forget simply filling spaces; think about creating a story, an inviting glimpse into who you are.

If you're wondering how to style a shelf like a designer, start with a book that speaks your language — and looks the part. Interior designers swear by beautiful, bold books to anchor a shelf — and for good reason. A colourful spine or striking cover adds instant personality and a sense of intention. One standout? Design Styles — a must-have book that explores 25 of the most iconic interior design styles through 150 inspiring homes from the world’s top designers. It’s visually rich, informative, and the kind of piece that defines your shelf’s aesthetic at a glance.

A substantial, visually appealing book isn't just for reading; it's a design tool. It provides a solid base, a block of colour or texture that can ground lighter objects around it. Consider the "Design Styles" book mentioned above – it's not only a treasure trove of inspiration but also a striking piece on its own, instantly communicating a sense of curated taste and a love for thoughtful design.

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Can Art Transform Your Shelves?

Absolutely! Art isn't just for walls; it’s a powerful element for shelf styling, bringing depth, personality, and a focal point to your display.

It’s small-scale, statement-making, and effortlessly stylish. When it comes to shelf styling like an interior designer, a well-chosen artwork can anchor the whole look. One of the easiest ways to make a shelf feel curated (not cluttered) is by adding a piece of art. Interior designers often layer a framed print behind books or objects to create depth and interest. We love this one by Chelsea Taylor Design — a high-quality print on heavyweight fine art paper that preserves every colour and brushstroke from the original painting.

A well-chosen print, perhaps a piece by Chelsea Taylor Design, can be layered behind smaller objects or propped against the back of the shelf. This creates a wonderful sense of dimension, preventing your shelves from looking flat. It’s a subtle trick that seasoned designers use to make a collection feel more like an artful vignette than just a simple arrangement of items.

How Do You Pick Meaningful Objects for Display?

Beyond books and art, the objects you choose for your shelves are truly where personality shines through. Interior designers look for pieces that tell a story, invite curiosity, and offer a glimpse into the homeowner's travels, passions, or unique aesthetic. This is where your personal curation comes into play.

Choose carefully curated and meaningful objects that invite curiosity — and nothing does that better than a beautifully made bonbonnière. The Forest Green Karl bonbonnière is mouthblown and hand-painted in Bohemia, inspired by ancient Roman circus cups. Each piece tells a story and will no doubt spark conversation.

Think of a bonbonnière, like the Forest Green Karl bonbonnière from Maison Flâneur, mouthblown and hand-painted with a rich history. These aren't just pretty things; they're conversation starters, tangible pieces of craftsmanship that add an intriguing layer to your display. They whisper stories of faraway lands or forgotten eras, making your shelf truly unique. For more captivating finds, discover our collection of unique home accessories—where every piece is chosen for its story and character.

What About Quirky & Playful Touches?

The most memorable styled shelves aren't overly serious. They have a certain charm, a playful edge, or a touch of the unexpected that makes them feel truly lived-in and loved. This is where those characterful accessories come into their own, adding a surprising pop or an endearing quirk.

Accessories are what bring a styled shelf to life — especially pieces with character. The Isolation Face Mug in Pink by K S Creative Pottery is a perfect example. Hand-thrown and painted in Kent, this cult ceramic piece was born out of lockdown and has become a favourite for lovers of quirky design. Its Picasso-esque face, inspired by traditional Sicilian ceramics, adds just the right amount of eccentric charm. These unique handmade mugs aren’t just for the table — they’re shelf-worthy too. Style alongside other colourways and sizes for a playful, mix-and-match display that feels curated and personal.

Imagine the Isolation Face Mug in Pink by K S Creative Pottery, with its Picasso-esque charm. These aren't just mugs; they're small sculptures, little bursts of personality that defy expectation. Arranging a few in different colours or sizes can create a delightful, playful display, proving that even everyday items can become decorative masterpieces when thoughtfully placed.

How Do Sculptural Pieces Create Visual Interest?

Interior designers often use small, sculptural pieces to break up books and add moments of surprise. This light green candy stripe vase by Hodge Pots is the kind of cheerful, handcrafted accessory that makes a shelf sing. Made from reclaimed stoneware clay and finished with a bright, hand-painted glaze, it's both sustainable and eye-catching. Use it on its own or paired with other decorative objects to add colour, texture, and a little whimsy to your office or living space. It’s a reminder that shelf styling should always include a touch of joy.

A vibrant candy stripe vase from Hodge Pots, with its cheerful hue and unique form, is a perfect example. Placed strategically, it can introduce a refreshing pop of colour or a surprising silhouette. Use it on its own as a standalone piece or alongside other decorative objects to create a dynamic, textured arrangement. Remember, the goal is to make your shelf feel like a collected treasure trove, not just a storage unit. It's about letting each piece have its moment, creating a visual conversation between old and new, serious and playful.

FAQ

What are the fundamental elements of shelf styling?

The fundamental elements include books, art, meaningful objects, unique accessories, and sculptural pieces, all arranged to create visual balance and tell a story.

How do interior designers use books on shelves?

Interior designers use visually appealing books with interesting covers or spines as anchors to ground the display and add personality.

Can I use everyday items for shelf styling?

Absolutely! Characterful everyday items, like unique mugs or handcrafted pottery, can add a personal and quirky touch to your styled shelves.

Why is it important to layer objects on a shelf?

Layering objects, such as placing art behind books, creates depth and visual interest, making the shelf feel curated and not cluttered

Should every item on a shelf be expensive?

Not at all! The key is to choose objects that are meaningful, interesting, and well-made, regardless of their price, to create an authentic and appealing display.