The art of styling open shelves without looking cluttered

Back in the 1990s and early 2000s, when interior design was not as hyped as today in middle-class households, furniture pieces were chosen based on functionality rather than space and aesthetic quotient.

I remember most of our relatives had bookshelves packed with – you guessed it – books. And sometimes, as children, they used the space behind the books to hide their toys or precious magnets collected from somewhere. No one ever thought of balancing the shelf space with a breathing corner, a plant, or a showpiece. And there was another kind of shelf – the precious crockery unit.

However, today, if you walk into almost any thoughtfully designed home, you will notice a common feature: open shelves. Whether in the kitchen displaying ceramic mugs, in the living room holding books and keepsakes, or in the dining area showcasing handcrafted pottery, these shelves have become more than just storage. They tell a story.

But while Pinterest and Instagram are filled with perfectly styled shelves, recreating the look at home is not always straightforward. Many homeowners begin with a clean arrangement, only to find the shelves gradually filling with mismatched souvenirs, unopened mail and everyday odds and ends. And most importantly, dust.

"The biggest mistake people make is treating every inch of a shelf as storage," says architectural designer Shehab Islam. "Negative space is just as important as the objects themselves. Empty areas allow the eye to rest and make each item feel intentional."

Less is more

Unlike cabinets, open shelves put everything on display. Every object contributes to the room's overall aesthetic, which is why designers often recommend editing before decorating.

A useful approach is to remove everything from the shelves first. Then, select only the pieces that are both functional and meaningful – a favourite ceramic mug, a stack of books you actually read, a handcrafted vase or a framed photograph.

"Instead of displaying an entire collection, choose a few pieces that truly deserve attention," says Shehab.

A restrained mix of ceramics, woven textures and indoor plants creates visual interest, proving that less is often more when styling open shelves. Photo: Junaid Hasan Pranto

"There have been instances where our client asked for open cabinets in their open kitchen, as they thought it was trendy or beautiful. But after several months, the client called us again to get them covered because maintenance became an issue," said architect Ador Yousuf.

"So always keep in mind that our climate is very dusty, humid and airy. Keep the layout simple if you like the design so that you can maintain and clean it regularly," he added.

Work in groups, not rows

One reason professionally styled shelves look effortless is that items are rarely lined up in perfect rows. Designers often arrange décor in small groupings of varying heights and textures.

A stack of books can become a platform for a candle or a ceramic bowl. A trailing plant can soften the straight lines of shelving, while a framed print leaning against the wall adds depth without requiring additional fixtures.

The goal is visual balance rather than symmetry.

Mix function with beauty

Open shelves should be practical, not just decorative. In the kitchen, everyday dishes, bowls and mugs can double as décor when arranged thoughtfully. In the living room, woven baskets can conceal chargers, remotes and other small essentials while maintaining a clean appearance.

You are not supposed to hide your things. Notice your behaviour pattern. For example, where do you keep your wallet and keys the moment you enter your home? Place a decorative tray there. That way, you have something functional and also reduce clutter.

Open shelving in a contemporary workspace introduces greenery and visual separation while maintaining an open, collaborative environment. Photo: Srishty architecture and consultancy

Play with texture

One of the simplest ways to elevate open shelving is through contrast.

Smooth ceramic vases paired with woven baskets, linen-covered books, wooden trays and glass candle holders create layers that feel rich without relying on bright colours.

Neutral palettes also help unify diverse objects. Instead of creating clutter with decorative items, try to incorporate similar materials that create harmony.

Let books tell a story

Rather than arranging every book vertically, designers recommend mixing horizontal stacks with upright rows. A small sculpture, candle or plant placed on top of a stack introduces variation while keeping the arrangement relaxed.

Books chosen for their personal significance – not simply their colour – also make a home feel more authentic.

Books arranged with varying heights and generous negative space transform a simple shelving unit into a subtle design feature. Photo: Junaid Hahan Pranto

Create breathing spaces with plants

Perhaps the hardest lesson for homeowners is resisting the urge to fill every shelf. Especially if you are a collector or a voracious reader.

Professional stylists often leave 20 to 30 per cent of shelving intentionally empty. This visual breathing room helps each object stand out and prevents spaces from feeling crowded.

"Our homes should evolve," says Shehab. "A space is not unfinished – it leaves room for future memories."

And if the emptiness bothers you, plants add softness to shelves dominated by wood, metal or ceramics. Trailing pothos, compact snake plants or small ZZ plants require relatively little maintenance while introducing colour and movement.

Even a single branch in a ceramic vase can create a fresh, sculptural focal point.

Styling checklist

• Mix different heights and textures

• Create groupings and add space among them

• Create a balance between practical and decorative items

• Have a limited colour palette; do not overdo colours