You finally have the custom built-ins you’ve always dreamed of—now for the fun part: styling them! Built-in shelves are a perfect way to add both storage and personality to a room, whether they're in a living room, a home office, or a dining area.
But how do you make them look curated and not just cluttered? It’s a common question we get, and the good news is that with a few simple guidelines, you can create a beautiful display that feels just right.
Here are a few simple dos and don’ts to help you style your new built-ins with confidence.
The Dos: Creating a Curated Look
When you’re styling, it's about telling a story with the items you choose. The key is to create a dynamic look that draws the eye and feels personal. We asked some of our favorite interior designers for their take on chic shelf styling, here’s what they shared:
- Do layer and vary heights. Don't just line up a single row of books. Start with a foundation of books, both vertical and horizontal stacks, and then layer in decorative objects in front of them. This adds depth and visual interest.
- Do mix textures and materials. Think about what you’re putting on the shelves. Try to include a variety of items: smooth ceramics, woven baskets, natural wood, and a few pieces of metal or glass. This makes the display feel curated and full of intrigue.
- Do leave some open space. Not every shelf needs to be full. Leaving a little breathing room around your items helps each piece stand out and prevents the entire display from feeling overwhelming.
These simple tricks can transform a blank shelf into a work of art, making the space feel more intentional and personal.
The Don’ts of Shelf Decorating
It's easy to get excited and want to fill every inch of your new storage, but this can actually work against you. Our interior design partners say to avoid these design mistakes to keep your built-ins from looking cluttered:
- Don't overstuff. A crowded shelf can make a room feel smaller and messier. Edit your items down to the ones you truly love. A good rule of thumb is to take out about 30% of what you originally put in.
- Don't ignore the function of the room. A media center in the living room should be styled differently than a bookshelf in a home office. For a media center, focus on items that complement your TV, while a home office can display more books and items that reflect your work.
Remember, the goal is to create a display that feels natural and effortless, not forced or busy. This will make your residence feel truly tailored to you.
Ready to Start Decorating?
First, you need a fantastic foundation – in this case, quality custom cabinetry – to then get into the final design details. Once designed & installed, styling your built-ins should be a fun and creative process!
With these simple tips, you can transform your shelves from a blank canvas into a beautiful, personalized display that truly reflects your style. At C&C Cabinets, we love seeing how our clients make our pieces their own, so don’t forget to send us some photos!
We want to make you feel right at home, reach out to our design team today for a complimentary in-home consultation.
