Summer is finally starting to make its appearance – the light is flooding into our homes, and it’s the perfect time to update your home to match the light and airy feel. Here at Shelved, we believe glass shelves are a fantastic addition to any room, offering a sleek, modern touch while being undeniably timeless.
Glass shelves allow light to pass through, illuminating what often can be dark spaces among the shelves. This can work well in small spaces or darker areas of your home. However, styling them can sometimes be a bit challenging. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist vibe or a more retro look, in this blog, we will guide you through how to get started with glass shelves and offer some tips to help you style them.
Why choose glass shelves
Glass shelves are incredibly versatile. They can be used in any room, from the kitchen to the living room to the bathroom. They fit with any decor, adding a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space. Whether you want to display your favourite books, showcase decorative items, or store everyday essentials, a glass shelving unit can do it all.
One of the standout features of glass shelves is their ability to let light pass through. This can brighten up areas that would otherwise be shadowed, making them ideal for small rooms or dark corners. The reflective quality of glass also helps to make the room feel larger and more open.
At Shelved we wants to make adding glass shelving to your interior easy, with the option to add glass to any design in the configurator, you can opt for an all-glass look, or mix and match with our other shelf finishes. Build a completely bespoke design to create glass corner shelves or browse our shelving unit with glass shelves collection page.
How to Style Glass Shelves – Our top 5 tips
1. Keep it simple
When styling your glass shelving units, choose decorative pieces that complement the glass. Keep in mind the colours and textures that will work best with the rest of your room, and stick to a cohesive theme. For a sleek and modern look, stick to a neutral colour palette; whites, blacks, greys, and metallics work beautifully with glass and create a sophisticated aesthetic. If you want to add a pop of colour, do so sparingly and thoughtfully.
Remember, less is more when it comes to shelf design. Avoid overcrowding! Select a few key pieces that you love and want to showcase. By doing so, you not only keep the overall look clean and uncluttered but also highlight your chosen items.
2. Create contrast
Whilst keeping it simple is super important, your shelves also need a certain level of interest—no one likes boring! Add visual interest by varying the heights and shapes of the objects on your glass shelves. Mix tall and short items, and incorporate different forms like round vases, square picture frames, and geometric sculptures. This variation keeps the eye moving and prevents the display from looking flat or monotonous.
When arranging items, think about balance. Symmetrical arrangements can create a calm, orderly look, while asymmetrical setups add a dynamic, artistic feel. Try to find a balance between the two. For instance, you might place two similarly sized objects on either side of a taller central piece or stagger items on different shelves to draw the eye across the entire display.
3. Add Natural Elements
Bringing in natural elements can soften the look of glass shelves and add warmth to the modern aesthetic. Consider adding small potted plants, succulents, or fresh flowers. Natural materials like wood or stone in your decor pieces can also complement the glass and add texture to your display.
4. Make it your own
Your glass shelves should reflect your personality and style. Incorporate personal touches like favourite books, cherished souvenirs, or framed photos. These items tell your story and make the space uniquely yours. Just be mindful to maintain the overall sleek and modern aesthetic by keeping the arrangement tidy and cohesive. Have you ever considered an at home bar? Glass shelves for a bar create a sleek, modern and sophisticated look.
5. Keep it fresh
Glass shelves look best when they’re sparkling clean. Regularly dust your items and wipe down the glass with a streak-free cleaner. This upkeep ensures that your shelves always look their best and that the clarity of the glass enhances the beauty of your displayed items.
To keep your shelves looking fresh and interesting, consider rotating the items seasonally. This not only refreshes the look of your space but also allows you to showcase different pieces throughout the year. Seasonal decor can also add a timely touch to your modern aesthetic, keeping your home stylish and current.
