The Right Shelves for Every Room

The Right Shelves for Every Room

Storage space is a must for both small and large rooms: Here are some tips from Stylight on how to find the right model for your living situation!

Tips for large and small rooms

  • Small, narrow rooms can be overwhelmed by massive furniture. Delicate wall shelves or free-floating shelves look best in these rooms.
  • If the ceiling is low, the shelves shouldn’t be too high. If, however, you have a lot of space, a solid shelf wall will be shown to its best advantage.
  • For sloping ceilings or corners you’ll find slanted wall shelves or right angle options.
  • If a large room requires more structure, then shelves without a back wall that can be used as a room divider are ideal.
  • If your book collection and the like are growing, an expandable shelving system is a good alternative.

What material should your shelves be made of?

  • Wood goes best in homes with a country-house or Scandinavian style. Veneer wood is visually not in the same street as solid wood, but it is less expensive.

Budget: Solid wood models start at $45

  • Metal looks cool and modern, or highlights the shabby-chic look when lacquered. Its advantage in both cases: Resistance to dirt and moisture.

Budget: No-frills models from $45

  • Glass frames or glass shelves are ideal for displaying souvenirs and collectors’ items.

Budget: From $55

What should go on the shelf?

  • Paperwork: Since paper and books become heavy quickly, solid or veneer wood is the best choice. Adjustable shelves, back walls with cable openings, and models with a mix of open shelving spaces, doors and drawers are all handy options. If you have special requirements, there are also models with integrated hanging files, shelves you can mount, etc.

Best sellers: Office Collection, Phoenix

  • For books, souvenirs, etc.: Open shelving systems or shelves with glass doors. If you like cozy atmospheres, opt for warm colors (e.g. red or brown). If you prefer a cooler look, shelves in blue or white will maintain a low profile.

Best sellers: Loftscape, Lars Larsson

  • Home supplies, cleaning products, cosmetics: Functional chrome shelves that are not sensitive to moisture and don’t easily collect dust are the best choices for bathrooms and storerooms.

Best sellers: Home Design, Radius

Shelves in storerooms and laundry rooms should be practical and sturdy. Solid wood shelves make living spaces even homier, while backless shelves add structure to large rooms.

Shelves are more versatile than almost any other furniture item.

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