It helps create a little extra drama and makes whatever you’ve styled on the shelves shineliterally.
Have a professional install them, or opt for do-it-yourself battery-operated kits.
They also provide some contrast between the shelves and walls.

Credit:Courtesy of Ann Gottlieb, by Angela Newton Roy Photography
Here the brass creates a striking, vintage-inspired contrast against the wood and corrals stacks of dishes.
Display a gallery of art or decorative plates, or keep items sorted in your laundry room.
Each shelf will be noticeably one-of-a-kind and add organic personality to your space.

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The raw edge adds subtle style and detail.
Sometimes though, the size of the TV or layout of the space makes its overwhelming presence unavoidable.
Even better, the silhouette offers double the styling opportunities.

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Use the inside of the box and the top for collections or decor.
Breathing room spaces out components and keeps the shelf from feeling cluttered.
Enter: floating shelves.

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Glasses allow light to shine through, and plants would also be a pretty option.
What a perfect spot for akitchen herb garden.
Geometric designs like this can be custom-made to fit the space.

Credit:Courtesy of PRD Custom Homes & Interiors, by Ruta Smith
The simple design also adds style to a simple space.
Floating shelves are simple to install and work as both a storage and styling moment.
They can provide storage in an otherwise wasted space.

Credit:Courtesy of Erin Myers Design, by Laura Visioni
Fill with books,bath linens, or kitchen items, depending on the room.
Scalloped edges would also add a playful touch.
The open sides continue the open flow of the space.

Credit:Courtesy of Jill Howard Design Studio, by Julia Lynn
In this case, the focus is on the brass hardware, wood countertop, and green sconce.
The shelves play a supporting role.
You could also add surprising floating shelf built-ins around your bed orin a bathroom.

Credit:Courtesy of Urbanology Designs, by Matti Gresham
Why not take it one step further and match your floating shelves to the trim?
A bright color plays well with bold wallpaper patterns.
The books become a focal point.

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Matching wood maintains the aesthetic.
The mini nightstand is the perfect spot for bedtime necessities.
Create Office Storage
Laurey W. Glenn
Add space to a desk nook with floating shelves.

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One low shelf provides extra workspace and an easy-to-access spot for projects.
Build A Library
Maximize a corner space by adding floating shelves to create a home library.
The open shelves give focus to the books.

Credit:Courtesy of Jill Howard Design Studio, by Julia Lynn
Photos and a few knick-knacks add a personal touch.
Add a chair and reading light to finish the cozyreading nook.
Matching untreated yellow pine shelves to the walls in thislakeside cabinmaintains the room’s flow.

Credit:Courtesy of Blueberry Jones Design, by Avery Nicole
The design keeps with the cabin’s simple vibe.
Maximize A Kitchenette
Floating shelves provide storage space and free up the counters in a small kitchen.
Thin shelves don’t detract from the rest of the space.

Credit:Courtesy of Stephanie London Interiors, by PaÌr Bengtsson
Don’t limit open shelves in the kitchen to just dishes.
This Alabama kitchen design shows off quirky flea market treasures.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Stained wood floating shelves add warmth to an otherwise calm kitchen.

Credit:Courtesy of Ann Gottlieb, by Angela Newton Roy Photography
Use a trio of shelves to put your most-used, everyday dishes in quick reach in a busy kitchen.
Dishes, glasses, and coffee mugs are right where you need them.
Matching the wood to the cabinets adds a rustic touch that complements the stone walls.

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Wide white shelves blend into the white backsplash, putting prized items front and center.
Spacing elements apart keeps open shelves from looking cluttered.
Theyre also not a good storage choice for items that arent meant to be on display.

Credit:Courtesy of Four Brothers Design + Build, by Steve Hershberger
A floating shelf can hold 50 pounds for every stud your shelf bracket is attached to.
If your shelf is attached to two studs along the wall, then it can hold 100 pounds.
High quality brackets and a shelf made of sturdy materials are better at holding more weight.

Credit:Courtesy of Emily June Designs, by Claudia Casbarian for Julie Soefer

Credit:Courtesy of Jennifer Barron, by Molly Culver

Credit:Courtesy of Urbanology Designs, by Costa Christ Photography

Credit:Courtesy of Jill Howard Design Studio, by Julia Lynn

Credit:Courtesy of Four Brothers Design + Build, by Steve Hershberger

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Page Mullins

Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Kiera Coffee

Credit: Ashley Gieseking

Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn

Credit:Cody Ulrich

Credit: Madeline Harper Photography