Open Shelving: Organised Brilliance

Open shelving systems offer both practicality and style, allowing you to showcase your belongings while adding visual interest to your space. By incorporating a few key design principles, you can create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing display.

    
Pictured: Aria by Porada and Charlotte by Bontempi Casa

Mix open and closed storage
Achieve balance by combining open shelves with closed cabinets or drawers, such as the Aria bookcase by Porada or Charlotte bookcase by Bontempi Casa. This blend of storage options allows you to neatly conceal items that you prefer to keep out of sight while displaying decorative pieces or frequently used essentials on open shelves.

Careful placement and styling
Arrange your items thoughtfully, mixing textures, heights, and shapes to create visual appeal. Use decorative trinkets, vases, books, and artwork to inject personality into your display. Group items in odd numbers and vary their placement to create a dynamic look.

Pictured: Airport by Cattelan Italia

Clever lighting
Illuminate your open storage with strategically placed lighting to highlight your displayed items and create ambiance. Consider installing LED strip lights or spotlights above or below the shelves to accentuate specific objects and add warmth.

Think about the background
Enhance the visual impact of your open storage by adding a mirrored or wallpapered background. Mirrors can make the space appear larger while reflecting light, while wallpaper adds texture and pattern, injecting personality into the design.

     
Pictured: Charlotte Corner and Atena by Bontempi Casa

Stick to the grid
Create a sense of organisation and cohesion by arranging items in a grid-like pattern. This structured approach not only adds visual interest but also creates a streamlined and orderly look. Consider shelving units such as the Atena or Charlotte Corner bookcases by Bontempi Casa.

By incorporating these design strategies, you can elevate your open storage system from purely functional to a stylish focal point that enhances the overall look and feel of your space.