We know this is a bold statement, but the floating shelf may be one of the most versatile decorative products ever created.
Not only do these sleek slabs of wood allow you to utilize every square inch of your space with minimal effort — a godsend in small apartments and condos — they’re the perfect resting place for countless products both decorative and functional. From kitchen shelving ripe with spices and pantry basics to bathroom shelves single-handedly showing off your extensive skincare collection, we are endlessly thankful for this simple piece of decor.
If you’re looking to install floating shelving in your space, we applaud you. Remember to stick to an overarching color palette when styling your display, and always shop your home for shelf decor before buying new (old books, vases, trays, candlesticks, bookends, and framed art or photography are all fair game).
Ahead, find stylish and practical floating shelf ideas for every nook in your home (including awkward corners), courtesy of Havenly designers.
1. Kitchen Floating Shelf Ideas
The possibilities are endless when installing floating shelves in the kitchen. Display a stack of everyday plates, kitchen tools, and seasonings, or use them decoratively for artwork, pretty cutting boards, and a bud vase or two. Either way, open shelving gives kitchens a sophisticated touch, especially when paired with practical closed storage.
2. Dining Room Floating Shelf Ideas
Add an eclectic touch to your dining room and fill shelves with pretty china, colorful dinnerware, antique coffee cups, brass teacups, vintage saucers, and favorite cookbooks. Best of all, you can skip the clunky china cabinet and put your heirloom kitchenware right where it belongs: on display.
3. Living Room Floating Shelf Ideas
Living room shelves are a perfect catch-all for stray books, family heirlooms, small pieces of art, candle sticks, or travel mementos. Best of all, these decorative displays can help conceal clustered cords, gaming systems, or other unattractive electronics.
4. Bedroom Floating Shelf Ideas
Nix clunky nightstands and use modern horizontal floating shelves as compact bedside tables — they’re the perfect catch-all for your latest bedtime read. Paint them the same color as the background wall for a sleek, clean look. This hack is perfect for small spaces or apartment living!
5. Office Floating Shelf Ideas
For an office-appropriate shelf arrangement that’s equal parts stylish and functional, cluster reference books, plants, and decorative boxes filled with small office supplies and favored wellness products. Pro tip: layer inspiring art behind or in-between objects to keep you motivated on taxing days.
6. Entryway Floating Shelf Ideas
An entryway should be both beautiful and functional, and floating shelves can help you check both boxes. Include pretty catch-all bowls for your wallet, keys, phone, and mail, in addition to greenery, photographs, thrifted knick-knacks, and color-coordinated books to impress house guests.
7. Bathroom Floating Shelf Ideas
Floating shelves are a perfect decorative addition to a large full bathroom, or a necessary addition to a cramped half bath or apartment washroom. Use them to store additional toiletries and skincare products, arrange towels and extra toilet paper, or simply display scented decor that’ll keep your bathroom smelling fresh.
8. Corner Floating Shelf Ideas
Floating shelves are the perfect decorative solution when trying to smooth out awkward corners. Fill them with aesthetically-pleasing decor and, if space allows, complete the nook with a task lamp and accent chair (makeshift Reading Room, anyone?).
9. Bar Floating Shelf Ideas
Add floating shelves above a makeshift kitchen island or bar cart to maximize space in a small home or apartment. This creates space for additional glassware, drink mixers, a small coffee bar, spices and pantry essentials — the opportunities are endless.
Want expert advice on your actual space, straight from an interior designer? Check out our design packages to work with a design pro one-on-one.