Shannon Miller’s living room shelves are a masterclass in styling. The balanced, pared-back scheme draws the eye backward and elevates the entire space. The former Olympian’s living room shelving starts with simple built-ins painted white. On the shelves on either side of the fireplace rows of photographs and books bring a personalized feel to the room. Glass sculptures and metallic votives add an intentionally designed edge.
Interior designer Claire Garner emphasizes the importance of balancing functionality with design tips to make a bookshelf an integral part of a room’s decor. She suggests ensuring there are gaps between items to avoid a cluttered appearance, giving each piece room to stand out. Miller’s storage idea perfectly satisfies this tip.
Styling a bookcase starts with organizing books according to genre, size, and color, as suggested by Priyanshi Jain, founder of Pixels and Spaces. Grouping books by color creates a cohesive and organized look. Mixing in items of different heights and textures adds depth to the shelves. Jain also recommends incorporating small planters, vases, and other decorative items to create a dynamic look. Playing with the heights and widths of objects and leaning books at different angles can create visual interest.
In Shannon Miller’s space, shelves look best when broken up with metallic, glass, and white accents. These elements provide a modern touch without bringing in additional color. Lighting is also crucial in shelf styling, as it enhances the visuals and helps with reading without straining the eyes. Placing lamps or other lights strategically on the shelves or near them can provide adequate lighting.
When recreating a similar look, it’s important to pay attention to your personal style and incorporate personal items such as family photos or travel souvenirs to make the space feel unique and personal. Shannon Miller’s shelves demonstrate a stylish, minimalist approach to shelf styling, making it easy to recreate the look by following the lessons embodied in her space.
In conclusion, Shannon Miller’s living room shelves serve as a prime example of how to style shelves effectively. By incorporating a mix of books, decorative items, and personal touches, one can create a curated and stylish appearance. Following design tips and balancing functionality with aesthetics can elevate the entire space and make the bookshelf an integral part of the room’s decor.