21 Floating Shelves Decorating Ideas

Whether used to display photos, organize books, or show off your crystal menagerie collection, the Floating Wall Shelf decorating ideas is sure to do the job in style. They are perfection in any room. Use the Floating Wall Shelf in a family room, bedroom, office, bathroom, or anywhere you want to add extra storage or display space. Check out some ideas you can implement at your own home. Some of these shelves are handsome, easy to build and inexpensive.

Image: DIY thin wood floating shelves

Are floating shelves a good idea?

DIY-walnut-IKEA-floating-shelves-and-black-cabinets

Image: Easy DIY Floating Shelves [an IKEA hack!]

Absolutely! Floating shelves are a fantastic idea for several reasons. They provide extra storage and display space without taking up valuable floor space. They also add a stylish and modern touch to any room. With their sleek and minimalistic design, they can complement a variety of interior styles. Additionally, floating shelves are versatile and can be used in any room, from the living room to the bathroom. So, if you’re looking to maximize your space, enhance your decor, and add a touch of sophistication, floating shelves are definitely a good idea.

What are the rules for floating shelves?

When it comes to floating shelves, there are no strict rules, but there are some guidelines that can help you achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look. Here are a few:

kitchen-dark-wood-floating-shelves
Dark wood shelves hang above a white Zellige tile backsplash and white counters, decorated with bowls, glasses, ceramic plates, vintage artwork, cookbooks and a wood cutting board.

Image: Lori Dail

1. Consider the weight capacity: Before styling your floating shelves, make sure to check the weight capacity of the shelves and distribute the weight evenly to avoid sagging or damage.

2. Create balance: Aim for a balanced arrangement by placing larger, heavier items towards the bottom and lighter, smaller items towards the top. This helps create a visually pleasing composition.

3. Vary heights and sizes: Mix up the heights and sizes of the items you display on the shelves. This adds visual interest and prevents a monotonous look.

4. Mix textures and materials: Incorporate a combination of textures and materials, such as wood, metal, glass, or ceramics, to create depth and contrast.

5. Use negative space: Don’t overcrowd the shelves. Leave some empty space between items to create a sense of openness and visual breathing room.

6. Consider color coordination: If you prefer a cohesive look, consider coordinating the colors of your displayed items with the overall color scheme of the room.

Remember, these guidelines are not strict rules, but rather suggestions to help you create a visually pleasing and well-balanced display on your floating shelves. Feel free to experiment and express your personal style!

What can I put on my floating shelves?

living-room-floating-shelves-decorating-idea
Shelves decor with Aged Brass Bells (Set of 3), Found Weathered Cane Basket, Vintage Ceramic Jar, framed photography,plant and books.

Image: MC Gee & Co

When deciding what type of items to put on your floating shelves, think about what kind of look you’re going for. If you want a minimalistic style, go for sleek items with clean lines. For more traditional looks, choose rustic items such as baskets, wicker trays, vases, lamps and candles.

gallery wall floating shelves

Also you can create a Gallery Wall With Floating Shelves. Finally, if you’re aiming for something more modern and eclectic, try incorporating unique accessories like antique clocks, globes, and small sculptures.

kitchen-foating-shelves-decorating-idea

Kitchen Floating Shelves decorated with kitchen essentials.

If you choose  kitchen open shelving instead of upper cabinets you can put everyday dishes, spices, coffee mugs, towels and other good looking kitchen items.

floating-shelves-decorating-ideas

Athena Calderone’s 20-foot marble floating kitchen shelf .

No matter what type of look you’re going for, adding a few pieces that have personal significance to you will make the design even more special.

Floating shelves with hooks 

Floating shelves with hooks
Floating shelves with hooks are ideal for smaller spaces

Image: missjessicanicole

loating shelves with hooks are a fantastic idea. They combine the functionality of traditional shelves with the convenience of hooks, providing both storage and organization options. With floating shelves with hooks, you can hang items like keys, hats, coats, or even small baskets to keep your belongings neatly organized and easily accessible. It’s a great way to maximize the storage potential of your shelves and keep your space tidy. Plus, it adds an extra touch of versatility and functionality to your decor. So, if you’re looking for a practical and stylish storage solution, floating shelves with hooks are definitely a good idea.

natural wood floating shelves with black hooks

Image: DIY kitchen wood floating shelves

Ideas For great wall shelves decorating ideas

How do I style floating shelves?

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Image: the beauty revival

Floating shelves can be a great way to add style and personality to any room. There are several ways to style them, depending on your design preferences.

If you’re looking for a minimalistic look, opt for simple floating shelves decorating ideas that are not too wide or bulky. They should also have clean lines and no unnecessary embellishments. Choose shelves in neutral colors such as white, black, or natural wood tones. Then, accessorize with plants and other décor elements in a variety of textures and shapes.

For a farmhouse-style look, choose floating shelves made of chunky wood planks or reclaimed wood beams. You can also try painting the shelves with a distressed finish. Then, add décor items such as rustic baskets, potted plants, and vintage knick-knacks.

Finally, if you’re looking for something more modern and sleek, try floating shelves in metallic finishes like chrome or brass.

What are some creative ideas for decorating floating shelves?

floating-shelves-decorating-ideas-into-nooks

Fit Floating shelves into a nook & small alcoves.

Adding colorful book spines to the shelves is one way to create a unique design. Paint the shelves an eye-catching color and then arrange books of different sizes and colors in an interesting pattern.

colorful ecorating floating shelves

If you’re looking for something more whimsical, try hanging small succulents or air plants from your floating shelf using

How do I arrange floating shelves so they look good?

staggered floating shelves
Staggered floating shelves

The best way to arrange floating shelves is to create a symmetrical design. Place the tallest items on the bottom and shorter items on top. Try arranging books, picture frames, plants, sculptures, and other décor in an aesthetically pleasing way.

What type of items should I put on floating shelves?

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Image: Plant Style: How to greenify your space

White floating shelves

When deciding what type of items to put on your floating shelves, think about what kind of look you’re going for. If you want a minimalistic style, go for sleek items with clean lines. For more traditional looks, choose rustic items such as baskets, wicker trays, and vases. Finally, if you’re aiming for something more modern and eclectic, try incorporating unique pieces like antique clocks, globes, and small sculptures.

No matter what type of look you’re going for, adding a few pieces that have personal significance to you will make the open shelves even more special.

How do I make sure my floating shelves are level?

floating shelves into a nook 12 decorating ideas
Image: Loft and cottage

The best way to make sure your floating shelves are level is to use a spirit level. Additionally, you should measure each shelf separately and make sure that the distances from the wall to each shelf are equal. This will ensure that all of your shelves look even when hung. It may also be helpful to mark where each shelf should go with a pencil before you drill in the screws. This will help make sure that your shelves are all level and even when hung. Finally, double-check with a spirit level once the shelves have been installed to ensure that everything is perfectly straight.

What is the best way to install floating shelves?

extra long reclaimed wood shelf floating 17 decorating ideas
Reclaimed wood floating shelf

The best way to install floating shelves is to use wall anchors and screws. First, use a spirit level to mark where each shelf should go on the wall. Then, drill in the right size wall anchor for the screws into each spot. Finally, screw in the shelves securely with the right size screw for your wall anchors. Once everything is secure and in place, you can enjoy your stylish floating shelves.

How do I clean floating shelves?

To clean your floating shelves, use a soft cloth and mild detergent. Make sure to dust off any debris or dirt before you start cleaning. For tougher stains, try using a gentle scrubbing brush. Once you are done cleaning, make sure to dry the shelves thoroughly so they last longer.

What should I do if my floating shelves are sagging?

If your floating shelves are sagging, the best thing to do is to tighten the screws. Make sure you use the right size screw for your wall anchor and screw it in firmly. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the wall anchors with stronger ones. If all else fails, you can try adding a brace or L-bracket under each shelf for extra support.

With the right installation and care, your floating shelves will be a beautiful addition to your home for years to come. Whether you’re looking for something minimalistic or more eclectic, there are plenty of creative ideas to help you create an eye-catching display that is sure to impress!

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Pantry wood shelves ideas with white marble countertop, gray kitchen cabinetry with gold hardware and white zellige tiles.

Image: CHELSEY FRENG

kitchen with wall shelves

The kitchen in the Victorian home of Warren Matthee and Rupert Smith, owners of Cape Town decor stores O.live (olivestudio.co.za).

floating shelves in a minimal room
floating shelves decorating ideas
floating shelves and a red armchair
Image: Lagerlings

Floating Books Wall Shelf

Floating Books Wall Shelf 9 decorating ideas
Umbra 330633-560 Conceal Floating Bookshelf

Everyone will think you are a magician when they see your books mysteriously floating in the air with this invisible wall shelf. Easily mounted with just 1 secure screw, it can store a stack of 5-10 books. Group multiples together on the wall for an urban modern accent. You can find it here.

Corner shelves

corner floating shelves 19 decorating ideas
Image: elle decor
floating shelves 20 decorating ideas
diy floating shelf with drawer decorating ideas

DIY floating shelf with drawer. The drawers are only 2 inches deep, but they are perfect for paper! How to by not just a housewife.

bookcase floating shelves 18 decorating ideas

Sapien Bookcase designed by Bruno Rainaldi. When completely filled, it appears as though books are floating in air. For more than two decades, Bruno Rainaldi has been influencing the design scene in Milan. A unique solution for those with a lot of books and little space to store them.

led glass floating shelf 16 decorating ideas

LED glass floating shelf. These ones create majestic wall shelves decorating ideas with special lighting effects. They are extra chic and add a modern touch to your space. At night, the atmoshere is spectacular! The light coming out of these wall shelves makes them one of the most special wall shelves decorating ideas ever!

black floating shelves blend in with the wall

Black floating shelves blend in with the wall.

wood floating shelves in kitchen

Hanging wall shelves. Find How to build a simple four-sided shelf that attaches to the wall with a sturdy metal bracket on plans now.

shelves near bed

Floating shelves make a nightstand.

kids room decor

Tree Branch Floating Bookshelves by Pepper Design.

small toilet
Image: 320 Sycamore

Floating shelves over the toilet in a small bathroom.

wood staircase

Floating shelves under the stairs.

stairs for shoes as decor

Ikea floating shelves are great for storage shoes!

floating shelves as decorating idea

Can you hang floating shelves without studs?

Yes, it is possible to hang floating shelves without studs, but it is important to take proper precautions to ensure they are securely mounted.

Wall anchors


One option is to use wall anchors, which can provide stability and support for the shelves. These anchors are designed to distribute weight more evenly and prevent the shelves from pulling away from the wall. Be sure to choose anchors that are appropriate for the weight capacity of the shelves and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.

French cleat system


Another option is to use a French cleat system, which involves using a cleat attached to the wall and another attached to the back of the shelf. This creates a secure, interlocking connection that can support the weight of the shelf.

Regardless of the method you choose, it is always recommended to consult a professional or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation to ensure the safety and stability of your floating shelves.

Conclusion

Storage space is something almost everyone yearns for. Floating shelves not only provide a room with a place to put your things, but when mounted correctly they can look fun, sleek and even a bit sophisticated. In fact, they are designed to appear as if they are attached to the wall without the benefit of brackets or braces. Floating shelves as decorating ideas are easy to put together and extremely useful. They can be both a work of art and a functional storage unit.

Tags: wooden floating shelves in different colors

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