Inspiration / How To / How-To: 3 Steps for Styling A Shelf, Sideboard, or Side Table

How-To: 3 Steps for Styling A Shelf, Sideboard, or Side Table

By Chelsea Harris Published On
Sideboard with globe lamp, clock, potted dark-leaf plant, and two abstract black-and-white prints in a wood-paneled entryway

From coffee tables, opens in a new tab to shelves, opens in a new tab, to bedside tables, opens in a new tab and sideboards, opens in a new tab, we believe that every surface in your living space is an opportunity to showcase your personal style while creating an environment that brings you joy every time you step inside. That said, we certainly know how intimidating it can be to try and arrange your things in a visually appealing way, but the good news is that it only takes a few simple steps to create an elegant and intriguing display.

Below, we walk you through our no-fail formula to create a beautiful and eye-catching feature in your home no matter the surface you're working with.

Sideboard with brass table lamp on top in front of stairs.

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Add Ambience

First things first, we always recommend starting with a lamp, opens in a new tab, as it's a great way to enhance the overall look and feel of your space. For starters, a lamp provides both ambient and task lighting, which is crucial for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and can be used to highlight specific areas or decor on your surface.

Pro Tip: A lamp is an easy way to add necessary height and dimension to a surface, which ultimately creates visual interest and depth. Depending on the style of lamp you choose, it can easily tie together the style and color scheme of your room while introducing a pop of color or texture as well!

Large ceramic white lamp atop oak sideboard next to door.

Green lamp atop white credenza with clock above it.

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Make a Statement

Art and wall decor, opens in a new tab is one of our favorite ways to bring color, texture, and personality to a space. For starters, it's a great way to add visual interest to a surface, as it can draw the eye and provide a focal point for the space. It's also a foolproof way to express personality and individuality if you choose pieces that reflect your interests, values, or general style. That said, our general rule of thumb is that the size and style of the art you choose should be influenced by the size and style of your surface.

Pro Tip: A large, bold piece of art can make a statement in a minimalist space, while a smaller, more subtle piece is a great choice for a more traditional home. If you're not sure what kind of art to choose, consider picking a piece that complements the colors and patterns of the other home decor items you have on display.

Matter lamp on top of oak sideboard with art behind it.

Matter lamp on top of oak sideboard with art behind it.

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Create Visual Interest

Lastly, the star of every home vignette is the decor, opens in a new tab you choose to display. Home decor items can be used to add personality and style to your surface, so we typically recommend adding vases, candles, trays, books, and other decorative items that will nicely complement your lamp and wall art.

Pro Tip: Consider grouping items in odd numbers, such as three or five, for a more visually interesting display. It's also important to think about varying the heights of the items you choose, as this will help to draw the eye up and down your surface!

Green lamp sitting atop oak sideboard next to door with various art prints above.

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