Well guys that actually happened!!! Style So Simple had its first tv appearance!!! I am still pinching myself...
If you keep up with me on Facebook & Instagram you will have no douth seen me yapping on about the whole experience! I was lucky enough to be invited onto RTE's Today Show to chit chat about the Art of Shelving with the lovely Maura.
Styling and decor can be a very hard area for people to figure out and most people feel that some are just naturally good at this type of thing. Which is not true at all! There are a few little guides that all designers when styling. So that is why we felt this was a good topic to give tips on...
So today I am going to write down all the tips I have learnt in my Interiors career about styling shelving. These methods can be used for open shelves, bookcases and even coffee table decor.
I am also going to do a little shop the look... I am actually obsessed with 'Shop the Looks' now! I got most of my items from Harvey Norman in Little Island Cork. The staff here were so so good to me for the show set up! From everything from borrowing items, setting up on set to even letting me have a little corner of the store on a very busy Sunday to practice the display! :) So if you did happen to see me running around the Little Island store last Sunday...HI :)
Let's get to it! Here is your step by step guide on how to style your shelving!
Enjoy...
TIPS, TRICKS AND DESIGN SECRETS...
1. Blank Canvas...
Always always always start from a completely blank canvas.
I would even suggest this if you are keeping some existing decor. Otherwise, it can get confusing very quickly and your overall styling can look disconnected or even messy.
So first things first, start by taking everything off your shelves to give yourself the best start :)
2. What is your colour scheme...
Colour scheme is crucial in all areas of Interior Design. This doesn't stop at your shelving. I usually pick three to four colours for my shelving. But two of these colours are neutrals. For example a brass or chrome with a grey or off white along with one to two pops of colour. It can be really beautiful to add the extra pop of colour in your shelving if your interior scheme only consists of one colour pop. For example if your interior is primally neutrals with brass fixtures and navy upholstery. It would be fab to keep this colour scheme within your shelving decor along with another pop of dusty pink to your shelving.
3. Work with the rule of threes...
If you are a regular reader you know I yap on about the secret rule of threes quite a bit! It is a styling method used by designers, stylists and even graphic designers. This will help you create that beautiful decor area that looks effortless put together. As Maura said.. Like when you see shelving in a hotel just work! :) So how and why do we use this rule/guide... Basically items arranged in odd numbers are more visually appealing and memorable than even-numbered groupings. Working in groups of 3, and 5 for shelving works best...
4. Height, shape and materials..
This tip can be used in any decor scenario from shelving to your coffee table. Using a mixture of heights, shapes and materials will make the overall look much more interesting and eye-catching. For example if you were to use one height in the same materials like a clay pot on your shelf it would start to look blocking and nearly like a wall. This is uninviting and not a great look. So try working with at least three different heights with a mix of shapes and materials.
5. Large items first...
By starting with your larger items first, it gives you a guide on where to place your smaller items. It also guarantees that you will create a nice balance throughout the shelving display.
6. Storage
I love to add hidden storage on shelving for those unsightly laptop and phone charges. Add a lovely basket or decor box to the bottom shelf. This will also anchor the overall look of the shelving unit by adding weight to the bottom.
7. Layering:
Last but not least layer your decor. A good example of this is by adding a large art piece to the back of the shelving unit. This again will add interest to the overall look.
SHOP THE LOOK...
Now I hope you all have a better idea of how to tackle those empty or cluttered shelves... But if you do want a bit more help leave me a message via Insta...
I want to say a huge huge thank you to RTÉ for having me on the show and here's to many more :) xx
Style So Simple - Aoife xx
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