How to Style Floating Shelves: Practical & Decorative Ideas for Every Room

Floating shelves are one of the most stylish and versatile ways to enhance any room. Unlike traditional shelving with visible brackets, floating shelves are mounted using hidden supports, giving them a clean, modern “floating” look. This design not only saves space but also adds a sleek architectural touch to your walls, perfect for both practical storage and beautiful displays.

We craft our floating shelves from premium, sustainably sourced woods, including Solid Oak, Solid Walnut, South American Walnut (River Tops), Oak Veneer, Walnut Veneer, and Reclaimed Elm. Each type has its own natural beauty, grain, and tone, so you can find the perfect match for your space.

1. Choose the Right Wood Tone

The wood type and finish you choose set the mood of the room. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Solid Oak – Light and timeless, ideal for bright, modern, or Scandinavian-inspired interiors.

• Solid Walnut – Deep and luxurious with rich brown tones, perfect for warm, elegant spaces.

• South American Walnut (River Tops) – Striking and bold, often used for statement pieces with distinctive grain and darker hues.

• Oak Veneer – Offers the classic look of oak with a lightweight and affordable design.

• Walnut Veneer – Smooth and refined, great for contemporary or minimalist spaces.

• Reclaimed Elm – Rustic, full of character, and eco-friendly — perfect for adding warmth and texture to any room.

No matter your preference, each shelf is designed for strength, beauty, and long-lasting performance.

2. Mix Practical and Decorative Items

Floating shelves work best when styled with a balance of function and personality. Mix items that serve a purpose with those that express your style:

• Practical: Books, storage baskets, jars, or office supplies.

• Decorative: Plants, framed photos, small sculptures, or candles.

Styling tip: Combine objects of different heights, shapes, and textures. Layer pieces by slightly overlapping frames or stacking books to create depth and visual interest.

3. Mind Your Spacing and Layout

The placement and spacing of your shelves make a big difference in how they look and function:

• Vertical spacing: Leave 12–16 inches between shelves for a clean, balanced appearance.

• Grouping: Style items in odd numbers (like 3s or 5s) for a natural, designer look.

• Negative space: Don’t overcrowd. Leaving open space keeps your shelves looking fresh and intentional.

4. Add Lighting for Ambience

Lighting can turn simple shelves into a feature display:

• Under-shelf LED strips – Subtle and modern, perfect for highlighting decorative pieces.

• Spotlights or sconces – Ideal for creating a gallery-style effect.

• Candles or lanterns – Add warmth and coziness for evening ambience.

A touch of lighting also draws attention to the natural wood tones, especially on darker shelves like walnut or reclaimed elm.

5. Style by Room

Floating shelves are incredibly flexible and can be styled differently depending on where they’re installed:

• Living Room – Display books, plants, and art to add character.

• Kitchen – Showcase dishes, glassware, or spice jars in style.

• Home Office – Combine functional storage with personal décor.

• Bedroom – Use for mementos, framed photos, or small plants.

• Bathroom – Perfect for towels, candles, and neatly arranged jars.

Conclusion

Floating shelves are much more than storage; they’re a way to express your personality, add warmth, and keep your space organized. Whether you prefer the natural charm of Solid Oak, the rich elegance of Black Walnut, or the rustic appeal of Reclaimed Elm, TableCo offers handcrafted options that blend beauty, strength, and style.