Refreshing Your Shelving for Spring

As we swing into Spring, many of us want to take a moment to refresh our spaces, bring out a little color - you know, liven things up a bit. Spring is also a very active time in the real estate space where many folks are preparing to get their home ready for the market or are looking for ways to decorate their new digs. One of the easiest and least expensive things to do is reconfigure your display shelving and add shelving to showcase your books and knickknacks, photons and keepsakes. Fortunately there are a number of creative and visually appealing ways to decorate your shelving that we are sharing with you! 

1. We love to see a mix of functional and decorative items. For example, by using a combination of decorative items, such as vases, picture frames, sculptures, and plants, along with functional items like books, boxes, and baskets creates a balanced look and keeps the shelves useful at the same time! 

2. Another idea is to experiment with height and depth. When you use items of varying heights and depths it will help to create visual interest. We love to place a tall vase next to a shorter stack of books or a collection of small framed pictures or small potted succulents in front of a larger item. 

3. Incorporate a color scheme: by using a color scheme throughout the shelves, it helps to create a cohesive look. We suggest either using a mix of colors or sticking with a monochromatic palette - for spring try adding a small pop of an accent color to brighten the space. 

4. Visual triangles are your best friend: When you arrange items in groups of three to create a visual triangle it helps to create balance and harmony 

5. Adding Texture: By using different textures, such as woven baskets, ceramic vases, and glass objects, you are adding interest and depth. 

6. Shed a little light: Adding small lights or candles helps to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere as well as a little bit of whimsy. 

7. There is nothing negative about negative space: Make sure to leave some empty space on the shelves to create a clean and minimalist look. Too many items can make things look disorganized while too few can be too stark. Negative space allows the items on the shelves to breathe and stand out. 

If you need some ideas for inspiration, or are looking to purchase shelving units to really change your look take a minute to check out these links: 

https://www.sunset.com/home/decorating/great-ideas-for-home-shelves. 

https://www.homesandgardens.com/interior-design/decorating-shelves. 

https://www.ninahendrick.com/bookshelf-decor-ideas/ 

Purchasing shelves? We love the different options that sites like overstock (https://www.overstock.com/Shelving-unit,/k,/results.html?SearchType=null) and Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/s?k=furniture+shelving+units&crid=7VV85BAUVHMJ&sprefix=furnitur e+shelving+units%2Caps%2C162&ref=nb_sb_noss_1). Pottery Barn 

(https://www.potterybarn.com/shop/furniture/storage+modular-office-furniture) and Wayfair also have some excellent options (https://www.wayfair.com/keyword.php?keyword=shelving+unit) 

Even if you are working with a small budget there are still some great options for you! “Shop” your house - you would be surprised by how many of the “basics” you already have. Check out local flea markets, yard sales and second hand shops - even your local Dollar General has been stepping it up both by offering floating shelves, realistic looking imitation succulents, and other items like candles and vases that look great 

(https://www.dollargeneral.com/product-search.html?q=Home+decor)! 

Putting a little bit of thought and time when decorating your shelves is a great way to showcase your style and personality - and remember there really is no "right" way to decorate. The point is to have fun experimenting with different styles and items until you find a look that you love and some great conversation starters too for your guests when they visit!