Perfect Wall Shelving Displays

 

If you want to enhance the appearance of any room in your home, you can with an inexpensive yet impressive way – wall shelving.  To improve not only appearance, but also functionality, shelves need to be organized so objects are displayed in the best way possible.  In this article, we have pull together some easy but proven ways in which wall shelving can work for you and your needs.

 

One option is great for small rooms where large bookshelves simply do not fit.  Instead, you could pull out 10 of your favorite book and use shelving as a display.  Now, if you want to keep more books out but again without using oversized furniture, then you could always use staggered shelves.  The look can actually be dramatic while keeping reading material within reach.  We recommend you organize books by the color of the jacket or binding and the outcome will be a definite focal point.

 

Of course, most people have heard the keeping like objects together is the best way of displaying items on wall shelving, which is true although not mandatory.  However, if you like tradition and want a clean area, then keeping like items together works well.  The key to success with this is to make sure you have themed, texture, shape, color, and even material items displayed together.  For example, if you have African animal figurines, rather than have them sitting about sporadically, you will make a greater impression by placing them together as a collection on the wall shelving.

 

Now the opposite rule is to step out of the box by mixing and matching items for your wall shelving.  This particular look is great no matter the style or décor of room but it needs to be done so it has a clean, uncluttered appearance.  In this case, if you have candleholders, rather than keep them all on one side of the shelf, use different shapes, designs, and heights and have them placed wherever you think they look bet.  This   allows a person’s eyes to rove the wall shelving, keeping a room interesting.

 

You can also add charm and interest to a room by choosing objects of varying widths and heights.  If you have large, oversized wall shelving, then go all out with candleholders, vases, or even pieces of art work.  As the different size items are placed, attention is drawn to each piece on its own, rather than an entire collection.  For formal rooms to include a dining room or living room, this is a sophisticated method of sprucing up wall shelving.

 

Finally, use your wall shelving to add shine.  Although shiny objects look amazing on glass or mirrored shelves, they also look great on wood and plastic so you have multiple possibilities.  These items could be anything from a pewter picture frame to an heirloom trinket box to a silver or gold piece of fruit.  If you have a room with dark walls or wood floors, adding a space that shines helps to break things up making the room appear more cheerful.

Tips for Decorating Wall Shelves

 

Wall shelves of every shape, size, and style are found in homes and office around the globe.  Some people have discovered the art of decorating wall shelves while other people seem to struggle in finding the right display balance.  Regardless of the type of shelving you have or are thinking of buying, learning the right decorating methods will make a huge difference in the way your home or business looks.

 

Interestingly, many people believe the best way to decorate wall shelves is by keeping things organized, which is one option.  However, as you are about to discover, there are numerous possibilities with many of them being based on your own personal preference.

 

• Depth and Layers – For a sophisticated or formal room, creating depth and layers works best.  In this case, wall shelves would include decorative plates, artwork, beautiful trays, and other similar objects placed toward the back for depth.  Then to create the appearance of layers, use smaller and shorter display items.  This creates an illusion and draws a person to looking through both the depth and layer dynamics.

 

• Simplicity – For people who have a contemporary style, one consisting of clean lines, shelving can be enhanced by keeping simple and uncluttered.  The key here is choosing display items that coordinate with your contemporary style and choosing objects that are simple while still making a statement.

 

• Photographs and Artwork – A popular way of decorating wall shelves, regardless of the room décor is by using photographs and artwork.  For this, be sure the photos are framed with the right color and texture to complement the room and use various styles of artwork to complete the look.  For instance, if you home is modern, then black and white photographs set in black frames coupled with artwork that has pops of vibrant color such as orange or red would be perfect.  On the other hand, a home with a traditional style would look best with colored photographs of varying sizes and frames, along with vases, figurines, and other similar items.

 

• Illumination – For a unique way of decorating wall shelves, consider illuminating the various items on display.  One option is to have attractive track lighting installed so the illumination comes from above or having small spotlights installed below or to the side depending on the style of shelving so objects are illuminated from below.  This is a great decorating option regardless of décor.

 

• Height – To take advantage of rooms with tall ceilings, wall shelves can be installed above cabinets, doorways, fireplaces, and so on that draws the eyes upward.  In addition to creating a unique appearance, wall shelving such as this is also a great space saver while allowing you to display some of your favorite collectibles.

 

• Personality – Every person has different ideas of what things should be displayed on wall shelves but we recommend you look for things in the home or purchase items that show off your personality.  Simply think of things that match your lifestyle, interest, or passion, and arrange them in whatever way you like best.

 

• Kid’s Corner – If you have smaller children at home, chances are you have a ton of handmade items from school.  Using shelves to display your child’s artwork, beautifully framed, crafts, plates, and so on, will look amazing in your child’s room while providing him or her with positive reinforcement with your appreciation for the work done.

 

• Collectibles – Many people collect specific items such as antique thimbles, seashells, buttons, teacups, roosters, and so on, which are great items to place on shelves.  By grouping a collection, regardless of what the collection contains, you will be making a powerful statement and point of interest that people will love looking at.

 

• Bold and Big are Better – If you are tired of dusting all the tiny figurines and collectibles currently being displayed on your wall shelves, consider switching the items out for something bold and big.  Items such as pottery, vases, artwork, and flower arrangements can transform the appearance of the room while eliminating the annoyance of cleaning.

 

The Evolution of the Wall Shelf

 

If you were to look around in homes and offices, it would be easy to spot a wall shelf or two and in a wide range of styles, colors, and styles.  While shelving is common around the world, few people have any idea of the history of the wall shelf.  For those who appreciate learning about the origin of common items, you will enjoy this article and perhaps look at the way you purchase your next wall shelf a little differently.  In fact, for people who want to purchase antiques or replicas for an era period home, understanding the history of the wall shelf could even help in finding the perfect accessory.

 

In looking back throughout history, there has always been some type of compartment on which everyday items and collectibles were placed but typically, these “shelves” were rustic and not what we would consider an actual wall shelf.  Initially, bookshelves were invented as an actual piece of furniture used for books, figurines, vases, and other display items.  Obviously, bookshelves continue to be designed, made, and sold around the world but people realized that this particular type of shelving was too large for some homes or rooms.

 

One of the earlier types of wall shelf locker was from the Russian Jacob Empire.  Created by the French maker, George Jacob, this was a shelving unit made from 1780 to 1810.  The intricate French style was a favorite on the Russian market with its rich mahogany wood and brass trimmings.  Another of the older wall shelf pieces comes from China where beautiful shelves were made.  The Chippendale was also made from mahogany with amazing detailing and a mirrored backing.  Made between 1930 and 1940, this shelf was made with crown molding that offered a secure way of displaying favorite photographs.

 

Over the years, inventors realized a simple wall shelf could be made that would work for small areas.  Working to come up with a design that would appeal to the public, United States patent number 7028619 was secured for a personal display shelf made with a vertical support surface base.  Also with this patent design was a horizontal transparent shelf made so the outside supports would not be seen.  The goal with this particular design was to have a wall shelf that was beautiful but also strong enough to hold perfume bottles, as well as heavier collectibles.

 

Since the time of the first simple yet functional wall shelf, we have seen virtually hundreds of different styles.  Today, wall shelving comes in unique designs, various sizes, woods and other materials, hanging options, stains, and other characteristics that make each special.  Because shelving is in such high demand, this product can be found in almost any department or retail store.  Of course, the wall shelf can also be found online, which creates new opportunities by being able to shop for shelving from around the world.

 

 

Wooden Wall Shelves – Decorative and Functional

If you were to look at all the options for wooden wall shelves on the market today, chances are that you would be astounded.  In addition to shelving options for the interior of the home, there are also shelves designed specifically for organization, such as shelving used in the garage or greenhouse.  When thinking about buying shelving, you want to determine the purpose so you will know the right direction to head – decorative or function.

 

Today, there are various types of shelves made from wood, glass, metal, plastic, and other materials, as well as multiple colors, embellishments, brackets, and so on.  No matter the material, color, style, or size you choose, know the purpose for which it is needed, which will help you make the best purchase possible.  As an example, if you are buying shelves for the garage, then you obviously need something strong, durable, capable of holding a lot of weight, meaning function is most important.  If choosing wooden wall shelves for a bedroom, living room, or kitchen, then you probably want something that is more decorative and functional.

 

Wooden wall shelves for the home come in many different design options, depending on the room where the shelves would be installed.  Before buying anything, make sure you know where the shelving unit will go.  From there, you will know the size needed and the shelving material that would work best.  If wood wall shelves will be installed in a bathroom, we suggest you choose laminate, engineered, or a natural species of wood that can withstand higher levels of humidity.  If wooden wall shelves are going to be for a child’s room, then you need shelving that is sturdy but also deemed safe.

 

The exciting news about wooden wall shelves is the vast choices.  Remember that if the shelves will be installed inside the home, decide if the shelf itself will be the focal point or if you want shelves that will allow you to display your favorite items, allowing them to be the focal point.  The great thing about wooden wall shelves is that not only are there decorative choices, but also shelves that are highly functional.  Therefore, you get the style you want but also a space for storage.

 

The styles of wooden wall shelves found today are amazing.  Not only are there new designs, but also new materials.  This means as a consumer, you can go with shelving that is strictly functional or decorative, or you could choose wooden wall shelves that offer both benefits.  Regardless of what you need, you have a choice of buying something already made, you would have shelving customized, or if you feel creative, you can purchase the necessary materials and make your own.

Wooden Wall Shelf Grain

 

When considering a wooden wall shelf, the primary consideration is the wood species.  Obviously, each type of wood offers a different appearance, degree of hardness and strength, longevity, workability, and even price. Obviously, the type of wood is one important factor for a wooden wall shelf but another dynamic is the wood’s grain.  Just as wood has a unique appearance, part of this is the grain.

 

As you look at each wood species, such as birch, pine, oak, cherry, mahogany, maple, walnut, teak, and bamboo, you will find that some have little or no visible grain while others such as pine has a lot.  Depending on the wood, the grain appearance might be strong and powerful while in other cases, grain appears more as fine veins.  In addition to the size of the grain, your wooden wall shelf would have unique variations in color and color contrast.

 

If you were to make a wooden wall shelf from birch, the coloring would be medium brown whereas a frosted maple gives the appearance of being off-gray.  Then along with the coloring, are the streaks or grain, which again can be pronounced or subtle.  Typically, the type of wooden wall shelf and the associated grain would help you decide the best look for your needs.

 

As an example, most people who prefer a more rustic or informal type of wooden wall shelf will go with pine or oak.  Pine has bold, dramatic knots and grain, which looks great for southwest décor, completing the rustic or cabin type look.  However, mahogany, which is deep and rich in color, has only slight grain, making it a much more appropriate choice for elegant and formal rooms.

 

If you plan to make the wooden wall shelf yourself, you might even consider using more than one type of wood, or using a primary wood species as the main planks and other wood species for edging, scallops, and other embellishments.  Remember, there is no wrong or right when considering the type of wood and the level and intensity of the grain you want.  Instead, the decision is simply based on the decorum and style of the room, along with personal preference.

 

To get a much better idea as to wood and grain to help you with your decision, you might conduct a search online.  With thousands of photographs on the internet, this will make the decision-making process far easier.  The bottom line is that along with the color of the wood, there are other considerations when choosing to buy or make a wooden wall shelf.

Transform the Fireplace with Wood Wall Shelving

Most people think of wood wallshelving as being units on walls that are used for books, plants, collections, artwork, and so on. While this is one aspect, there is another type of wood wall shelving that can transform and update the appearance of your fireplace. If you want to make your fireplace a focal point, something beautiful that enhances the room, then you might consider adding surrounds and wood wall shelving More and more, surrounds are becoming popular. These accents run down the sides of the fireplace, giving it a new look. Surrounds are usually made of wood so when added along with wood wall shelving, you get a complete look that is also highly functional. For example, if you have a fireplace in your family room then adding surrounds and shelving is a great way to display all your favorite books. Then when you have leisure time, you can light a fire, choose a book, and curl up to enjoy. The great thing about surrounds and wood wall shelving for your fireplace is that you have literally hundreds of options. This means no matter the décor of the room or the look you hope to achieve, you can make it happen. Styles that are formal, romantic, rustic, traditional, and everything in between can be created simply by choosing to have surrounds and wood wall shelving to your fireplace area. One option that looks gorgeous is to choose rich wood and have wood wall shelving built on either side of the fireplace. With this, the fireplace changes appearance immediately. Of course, for a formal, sophisticated look, we recommend you choose wood shelves made from mahogany, cherry, or bamboo. However, if you want something more laid back and informal, you can always go with pine or oak. Another option for your wood wall shelves around the fireplace is to paint them. With this, you would not need to purchase the most expensive wood but more something that is strong, durable, and material that can be painted. If you were to conduct research online, you will find many wonderful designs for both fireplace surrounds and wood wall shelving. You can also have the project custom made by a top craftsman or if you love do-it-yourself projects, consider making your own. The instructions for making the surrounds and wood wall shelving for your fireplace are actually easier than you would think. The bottom line is that whether buying already made, having something customized, or making your own wood wall shelving, the change to the fireplace and room will be astounding. Instead of living with an outdated room, this one change will be dramatic and well worth the investment.

Easy Steps for Installing a Wood Wall Shelf

Often, when someone wants to purchase a new wood wall shelf, they will do research online or go shopping locally.  Once the wood wall shelf is purchased, the next step is to choose the area where it will be hung.  Then, with a few easy steps, you can have your new shelving up in no time, ready for books, collections, artwork, plants, or whatever you want to display.  All you need is a few basic tools, a little bit of time, desire, patience, and good instructions.

 

Although there are all types of instructions associated with installing a wood wall shelf, we wanted to provide you with some basic steps to show you how easy this type of project is.  When done, you can sit back and enjoy something wonderful that you did and in very little time.  The instructions below are for a simple wood wall shelf but even the more complicated wood wall shelf designs are not difficult.

 

• Start by determining the wall area where the shelving will go and then finding the studs.  Most homes are made with drywall, which makes finding the stud easy.  For this, you can use an inexpensive stud finder or a hammer.  The stud finder is slid over the wall, indicating where the studs are located.  The hammer would be gently tapped on the wall and when the sound goes from hollow to solid, you know you found a stud.  Once the stud’s edge is found, make a simple mark with a pencil.  Remember, you will need to find two studs but if not, you can always use long screw to ensure both sides of the wood wall shelf are secure.

 

• With the two stud edges marked, the next step is to take a drill and 1/8 inch drill bit to create pilot holes.  This helps when you get ready to screw the standards in place so the wall itself is not damaged

 

• Now, the first standard will be installed for the wood wall shelf, using 2 ½ inch long flathead wood screws that go directly into the pilot hole.  When the first standard is in place, the second one would be installed.  One important note – make sure a level is used to ensure the tops of the standards are even and that the standards are vertically level.  In addition, while you want to screws to be in securely, make sure they are not too tight in that they can get stripped.  Start with the top of the standards, screwing them in place and then the bottom.  Additionally, the standards need to be properly spaced according to the wood wall shelf itself.

 

• After both standards for the wood wall shelf are securely in place, the brackets need to be installed.  For this step, simply attach them onto the standards at the height needed

 

• Once the brackets are in proper place, the actual shelves are slid on top.  The final step for installing a wood wall shelf is to bore a hole that measures ½ inch in diameter, going through the front portion of the bracket at the mounting hold.  Be careful not to let the drill go all the way through but about half way through.  Then with the shelf held firmly in place, use a 1 ¼ inch long flathead wood screw to drive up and through the bracket and into the actual shelf.  Do this for all the shelves and when done, you have a functional and secure wood wall shelf unit to enjoy.

The Wall Book Shelf Revisited

 

Some people want a wall book shelf but dread traditional styles.  Interestingly, there are actually many unique designs that completely change the concept of shelving.  If you love home projects and want to add a wall book shelf to one or more of your rooms, you might consider the following design option, which is unique and even unusual.  Although not for everyone, this is different and fun.  The method of making this type of wall book shelf is actually quite easy and fast!

 

• Invisible Book Shelves – Seriously, you can make a bookshelf for your wall that looks as if books are simply staying in place all by themselves.  For a child’s room, this is a wonderful way to show off books and create a point of interest.  To make invisible wall book shelves, simply follow these instructions:

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  • Tools – You will need an L bracket, both small and large wood screws, pencil, a carpet or utility knife, tape measure, and several books for the weight
  • Measuring – For these wall book shelves, you want to measure to the half way point and then with a pencil, make a mark.  Then, draw an outline of the L bracket and measure a second time.  With this, the goal is to create the invisible hardware that will be at the bottom or back of the book.
  • Cutting – A hole needs to be cut out with the carpet or utility knife, carpet glue, making it deep enough so you can put the bracket in flush
  • Screws – Using the small wood screws, the L bracket will need to be secured by using one screw on either side where the edges of the books will go, which helps secure the pages.  Be sure to use adequate pressure so you can keep all of the books in line and if not, the books will be uneven and unstable.
  • Gluing – The next step for creating invisible book shelves is to use the glue so the bottom cover of the books is held firmly and securely in place.  Again, the screws are used for keeping pages together while the glue holds the books in place.  To ensure the glue holds solid, we recommend you place something heavy or numerous books on top overnight.
  • Wall Attachment – The next step for invisible wood book shelves is on the following day, use the large wood screws to mount the shelving unit to the wall, making sure you find studs for the best security.
  • Add Books – Now that the bottom book is your actual shelf, you can add several more books on top, which is what creates the appearance of floating books or the invisible shelving unit.

Creating a Formal Look with your Wood Bookshelf

Many people believe that a wood bookshelf only works with rooms that are more informal but the truth is, wood also looks amazing in contemporary rooms. As you will learn, choosing the right type of wood, shelving style, and the way in which items are displayed is all it takes to create an elegant and sophisticated look. For one thing, you want to choose the right type of wood. For instance, a wood bookshelf that will be used in a formal room needs to have richness, which comes from wood species such as cherry, mahogany, teak, and bamboo. Typically, these wood species have deeper coloring with a slight touch of red that is simply gorgeous. Additionally, a wood bookshelf such as this will guarantee you get a strong and durable shelving unit and since these wood species are easy to work with, there are gorgeous designs to be found. In addition, you want to consider the styling of the wood bookshelf for a formal room. For instance, keep to designs that have clean lines and curves, which tend to be softer and more elegant in appearance. While a little bit of ornate embellishment is fine, be careful not to go overboard. Remember, instead of the wood bookshelf being the focal point, you want it to be the supporting piece of furniture for the beautiful items you plan to show. Then, the type of collection and the way in which you display your items on the wood bookshelf will complete the formal style. We recommend you consider your display items carefully, choosing colors that would enhance the room and keeping to small collections. Some of the best options would be small pieces of artwork, ethnic figurines, ornate trinket boxes, or vases in varied designs, sizes, and shapes. If the formal room has jewel tone furnishings, then find items for your wood bookshelf that would pop while still having the richer tones The bottom line is that while pine, oak, and walnut are great wood bookshelf materials for traditional or informal rooms, choosing the wood species will make a huge transformation. The same is true by keeping the style of the wood bookshelf rounded and clean with little embellishments, and finally, choosing your display items and collections carefully so they draw the eyes to them without overwhelming the room. The results will be stunning! If you conduct online research, you will be able to get some great ideas for the specific look you want. Of course, never be afraid to add your own personal touch. Sometimes, when done right, even a little bit of whimsy can enhance a formal room. Choose Google, Yahoo, or other larger search engines in the search field, type in words such as “formal wood bookshelf options” and you will be amazed at what you find.

Making your Own Wall Mounted Bookshelves

Some people want a wall book shelf but dread traditional styles.  Interestingly, there are actually many unique designs that completely change the concept of shelving.  If you love home projects and want to add a wall book shelf to one or more of your rooms, you might consider the following design option, which is unique and even unusual.  Although not for everyone, this is different and fun.  The method of making this type of wall book shelf is actually quite easy and fast!

 

• Inverted – Yes, you can create wall mounted bookshelves with the books hanging upside down.  Just imagine this type of shelving in your child’s room or a family room.  Not only are these wall mounted bookshelves functional, they make a great conversation piece.  This design is such that rather than books being supported by shelving underneath the books, they are held securely in place with the magic of Velcro.  Because the Velcro is unseen, it makes the wall mounted bookshelves appear as if they are simply hanging in space – very awesome!

 

• Crates – Typically, wall mounted bookshelves are made with wood, glass, or plastic held up with brackets of some kind.  However, a really easy way to create bookshelves is with plastic crates.  Not only are crates easy to install, they also provide a tremendous amount of room where books and display items fit.  You will find wall book shelves made from crates available in a wide variety of colors, perfect, safe, and functional for a child’s room.

 

• Tubes – If you look around salvage or construction companies, many times there will be throw away concrete form tubes.  These tubes measure about two feet in diameter, they are round, and very solid yet relatively lightweight.  The round shape makes unique wall mounted bookshelves and an overall appearance that you can be sure no one else has.  In addition, these tubes can easily be painted so if you prefer to leave them natural you can but if you want to add color to match or enhance the room’s décor, then the tubes are an ideal material for making wall mounted bookshelves.

 

The great thing about making your own wall mounted bookshelves is that the only limitation is your imagination.  When looking at garage sales, home improvement companies, or in your own garage, think outside the box.  Chances are that you will find unique and interesting materials that could easily be used for shelving.  Of course, the most important thing in building wall mounted bookshelves, especially for small children, is to make sure they are securely fastened to the wall to avoid accidents.  Have fun, be creative, and put your talent to work and see what designs you come up with for wall mounted bookshelves – you will probably surprise yourself.