What to Display on Bedroom Open Shelves: 10 Stylish Ideas

When it comes to designing a bedroom, the focus often falls on the bed, wardrobe, and other large furniture pieces. However, don't overlook the potential of open shelves to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your space. Open shelves not only provide additional storage but also create a visually appealing display area. Here, we'll explore what to put on open shelves in your bedroom to maximize their impact.

Firstly, consider the layout and design of your open shelves. They could be a standalone unit, part of a larger wall unit, or even a simple floating shelf. Regardless of their form, they offer a blank canvas for you to express your style and organize your belongings. Let's delve into the key elements to consider when deciding what to put on open shelves in your bedroom.

Decorative Items

Open shelves provide an excellent opportunity to showcase your personality and style through decorative items. These could range from artwork and photographs to decorative vases and figurines. To create a cohesive look, consider grouping items together based on color, theme, or material.

For instance, you might display a collection of vintage cameras on one shelf, while another shelf could hold a curated selection of books with colorful spines. Remember, the goal is to create a visually appealing display that reflects your tastes and adds a touch of personal charm to your bedroom.

Artwork and Wall Art

Open shelves are an ideal platform to exhibit your artwork or wall art. You can lean paintings or prints against the back of the shelf, or display them in a gallery wall arrangement. This not only adds a focal point to your bedroom but also makes the most of your vertical space.

If you're unsure about what to put on open shelves in terms of artwork, consider choosing pieces that complement your bedroom's color scheme or theme. Alternatively, you could opt for a mix of styles and sizes to create a dynamic, eclectic display.

Shelving Accessories

Shelving accessories such as trays, baskets, and boxes can help organize and contain smaller items, making your open shelves look more polished and put-together. For example, you might use a tray to group together cosmetics on your bedroom shelf, or a basket to hide away clutter like remotes or charging cables.

Moreover, these accessories can add texture and visual interest to your shelves. Opt for materials that complement your bedroom's overall aesthetic, such as woven baskets for a boho-chic look or glass containers for a modern, minimalist vibe.

Practical Items

Open shelves aren't just for decoration; they're also a practical storage solution. By strategically placing everyday items on your open shelves, you can create a functional and organized bedroom space.

However, be mindful of what you choose to display. While open shelves can hide clutter, they're not a catch-all for items you don't know what to do with. Instead, focus on displaying items that are both useful and visually appealing.

Books and Reading Materials

If you're an avid reader, your open shelves provide the perfect home for your book collection. Arrange them by size, color, or subject matter for a visually appealing display. You can also use bookends to keep them organized and prevent them from toppling over.

In addition to books, you might also display magazines, newspapers, or even your favorite childhood storybooks. Just ensure that the items you choose to display are in good condition and add value to your space.

Bedroom Essentials

Open shelves can also serve as a convenient spot to store bedroom essentials within easy reach. For instance, you might place a lamp on one of the shelves for late-night reading, or keep a selection of bedtime reading materials nearby.

Other bedroom essentials that can be stored on open shelves include alarm clocks, sleep masks, or even a small collection of scented candles. Just be sure to keep any flammable items away from the edge of the shelf and out of reach of children or pets.

Plants and Greenery

Adding plants to your open shelves can bring life and freshness to your bedroom. Choose plants that thrive in the light conditions of your room and require minimal care. For example, snake plants and ZZ plants are both low-maintenance and can tolerate low light.

To create a cohesive look, consider using matching pots or planters for your plants. You can also mix and match different plant types and sizes to create a lush, layered display.

In your quest to decide what to put on open shelves in your bedroom, remember that the key is to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Your open shelves should not only serve a practical purpose but also reflect your personal style and add visual interest to your space. So go ahead, get creative, and have fun designing your perfect bedroom shelves!