Hey friend! If you’re like most people, you’ve probably got some awkward, empty corners in your home that you’re not quite sure what to do with. Well, I’m here to let you in on a little secret – corner shelves are the perfect solution!
Corner shelves help you maximize every inch of space while also providing plenty of storage and display opportunities. Plus, with so many styles to choose from, you can easily find corner shelves to complement any decor.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to decorate your corner shelves like a pro. From picking the right type of shelf to styling tips and DIY projects, you’ll be an expert by the time we’re done! Let’s get started.
Different Types of Corner Shelves
When it comes to corner shelves, you’ve got options galore. Here are some of the most popular varieties:
Floating Corner Shelves
These sleek, minimalist shelves add modern flair. Made of wood, metal, or glass, they come in all different shapes and sizes. Floating shelves are easy to install and ideal for small spaces.
Wall Mounted Corner Shelves
As the name suggests, these shelves mount directly on the wall or in the corner. They tend to be bulkier than floating shelves and come in materials like wood or metal.
Built-In Corner Cabinetry
For a custom look, built-ins are the way to go. From floor to ceiling cabinets to simple shelving nooks, built-ins make use of every inch of space.
Freestanding Corner Shelves
Prefer a shelf you can move around? Freestanding units come in versatile shapes like triangles, ladders, and curves. They’re easy to reposition as needed.
As you can see, you’ve got options no matter your style or space constraints. Just take measurements and weight capacity into account when choosing corner shelves.
Selecting Your Corner Shelf
Ready to pick out the perfect corner shelves? Here are some key factors to consider:
First up is size. Measure the space you want to fill to ensure your shelves will fit nicely. Weight capacity matters too – shelves made of wood or metal can handle heavier items than glass or floating shelves.
Material is another big decision. Classic wood complements traditional decor, while sleek glass and metal bring a contemporary vibe. Want an earthy feel? Try woven seagrass or rattan shelves.
Be sure to pick a style that fits your overall decor scheme too. For modern spaces, minimalist floating shelves are a great bet. In farmhouse rooms, rustic exposed wood shelving adds character.
Built-in shelves make a statement, but freestanding units are ideal if you want flexibility. Lighted corner shelves illuminate displays and add ambiance.
Taking these simple factors into account ensures you find corner shelves tailor-made for your space.
Corner Shelf Ideas for Each Room
One of the best things about corner shelves is their versatility. You can incorporate them into just about any room! Here are some clever ways to use corner shelves in each area of your home:
Living Room – Show off your favorite books, family photos, collectibles and more. Shelves by the TV are perfect for media storage too.
Kitchen – In the kitchen, use corner shelves to store spices, cookbooks or barware. Or create an instant coffee station!
Bedroom – Bedside shelves provide a home for lamps and books. They’re also great for displaying meaningful treasures and curios.
Bathroom – In the bathroom, keep towels, toiletries and candles neatly organized on corner shelves. They’re ideal near the shower or tub.
Home Office – For productivity, corner shelves in your home office can store files, office supplies and printers. They make use of unused space.
Kids’ Rooms – Fill kids’ room shelves with books, toys and games for easy access. Shelves allow you to rotate items based on age and interests.
When styling your shelves, mix necessities with meaningful accessories to reflect the purpose of each room. The options are endless!
Arranging Your Corner Shelf
When it comes to styling corner shelves, how you arrange items makes a major impact. Follow these tricks to create an eye-catching display:
First, determine whether you want symmetrical or asymmetrical shelves. Symmetry brings a balanced, peaceful feel while asymmetry amps up visual interest.
Next, choose key focal points for each shelf, like a bright bouquet or sentimental antique. Focal points grab attention and anchor your arrangement.
Larger accessories like baskets and books work best as anchors too. Use them as bases to build around with smaller objects.
Repeating colors, textures and shapes pulls everything together. For example, collect white vases to contrast all that wood.
And don’t be afraid to play with heights. Stack books and stagger items to add dimension. Varying heights keeps things from looking flat.
With these simple principles, you can artfully style shelves to suit your taste and personality!
Styling Your Corner Shelf
When it comes to shelf styling, don’t forget about finishings. Here are some foolproof ways to pull your corner shelf display together:
Color palette – Choose 2-3 complementary hues for your shelves. Mixing metals like brass and silver also adds interest.
Textures – Incorporate natural textures like wood, wicker and ceramics along with sleek glass vases and metallic accents. Depth is key.
Greenery – Nothing brings life to a shelf like plants and flowers! Try succulents, air plants and flower arrangements.
Lighting – For drama, install sconces or strip lighting on or above your shelves. Lighting highlights decor and creates ambiance.
Seasonal touches – Rotate seasonal knickknacks to keep your shelves fresh. Think pumpkin decor for fall and beachy accents for summer.
Negative space – As important as objects are empty spaces. Don’t overcrowd shelves. Allow breathing room between items.
Finish off your shelves with these styling touches and get ready to watch your barren corners come to life!
DIY Corner Shelf Projects
Part of the fun of corner shelves lies in designing your own. Don’t be intimidated – DIY shelves are simple! Here are some thrifty ideas to try:
Upcycled crates – For farmhouse flair, stack old wooden crates atop one another in a corner. Add chalkboard labels if desired.
Ladder shelf – Lean an old ladder against the corner for an instant industrial-chic shelf. You can also hang it on the wall.
PVC pipe shelves – All you need are PVC pipes and planks of wood to create hovering minimalist shelves on the cheap.
Painted doors – Give old doors new life by stacking two in an L-shape and painting or staining them. Voila – custom corner shelves!
Put those DIY skills to work and create corner shelves that show off your unique style without breaking the bank. It’s easier than you think!
Conclusion
Everything you need to know to deck out your home with stunning corner shelves. With so many innovative styles and designs to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect solution to fill those awkward empty corners.
Corner shelves allow you to maximize every inch of space while showcasing your treasures and personality. So take measurements, pick a style that inspires you, arrange with artistry, and add those finishing touches. Before you know it, you’ll have beautiful, functional corner shelves worthy of any shelfie!
