How to Style Floating Shelves in Your Kitchen

Butcher block floating shelves are a versatile and stylish addition to any kitchen, since they provide both functionality and a touch of elegance.

No matter if you have a modern, minimalist kitchen or a cozy, rustic space, butcher block floating shelves can be styled in countless ways to complement your decor and enhance your kitchen's overall aesthetic.

Here are 10 creative ideas the Forever Joint Tops team want to share to help you style your floating shelves!


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  How to Style Floating Shelves in Your Kitchen

1. Mix Practicality with Style

To start, you should think about mixing practicality with style. Your kitchen's floating shelves are perfect for displaying various kitchen essentials like plates, bowls, glasses, and mugs. Instead of hiding everything behind closed cabinets, showcase your best kitchenware!

For example, you can opt for neutral-colored or matching dishware to create a cohesive look, and mix in a few decorative pieces like ceramic vases, small potted plants, or colorful cookbooks to add personality and warmth.

 

2. Use a Variety of Heights and Shapes

To create visual interest for your kitchen floating shelves, you can try varying the heights and shapes of the items on your shelves. For example, you can try mixing taller objects like pitchers or candlesticks with shorter items like spice jars or bowls.

Consider layering items by placing shorter pieces in front of taller ones, which creates depth and makes the arrangement more dynamic. Also, group items in odd numbers—threes and fives tend to look more balanced and visually pleasing.

 

3. Incorporate Natural Elements

Adding natural elements like wooden cutting boards, woven baskets, or small potted herbs can bring warmth and texture to your butcher block floating shelves. These natural elements contrast beautifully with more polished items like glassware or metal utensils.

Consider incorporating a few trailing plants, like pothos or ivy, to bring in some greenery and soften the overall look.

 

4. Create a Color Palette

Choose a color palette that complements your kitchen decor. Stick to two or three colors that blend well together and match your kitchen's overall color scheme. This could be neutral tones like whites, grays, and blacks for a modern look, or earth tones like greens, browns, and beiges for a more rustic feel.

By sticking to a consistent color palette, your butcher block floating shelves will look more intentional and well-styled!

 

Read More: Are Butcher Block Floating Shelves Sturdy Enough to Hold Books?

 
Kitchen Floating Shelves

5. Add Art, Vintage Items, & Decorative Objects

Are you an artistic person? Butcher block floating shelves aren't just for kitchen essentials; they’re also a great place to showcase various art and decorative pieces you love.

Consider adding small-framed prints, cookbooks with attractive covers, or unique objects like vintage scales or salt and pepper shakers. These items can add personality to your kitchen and make your kitchen floating shelves a focal point.


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6. Play with Symmetry and Balance

While symmetry can create a sense of order and calm, don't be afraid to break the rules for a more relaxed, lived-in look. Balance heavier items on one side with lighter or smaller items on the other.

For example, you might place a set of stacked bowls on one end and a tall vase with flowers on the other.

When it comes to decorating kitchen floating shelves, the key is to create a balanced composition that feels both natural and inviting!

 

7. Utilize Vertical Space

Floating shelves for kitchens allow you to use vertical space effectively, which is especially beneficial in smaller kitchen spaces. Stack similar items, like dishes or bowls, vertically to save space and keep things tidy.

You can also use vertical space for decorative items, such as a tall jug filled with utensils or a slender vase with fresh flowers. Make sure there’s enough space between the shelves for taller items to stand comfortably.

 

8. Combine Open and Closed Storage

If your butcher block floating shelves are crowded with too many items, they can start to look cluttered. To avoid this, combine open and closed storage solutions.

Use storage boxes, baskets, or jars to store smaller items or those that aren't as aesthetically pleasing, such as tea bags, coffee pods, or loose utensils. This way, your shelves remain stylish while also serving a practical purpose.

 

9. Highlight Seasonal Items

Refresh your kitchen shelves periodically by highlighting seasonal items. In the fall, you might incorporate small pumpkins or gourds, while in the summer, you could display fresh flowers or citrus fruits.

This keeps your kitchen feeling fresh and aligned with the seasons. Rotating items also allows you to change up the look of your shelves without making a permanent commitment.

 

10. Keep It Functional

While it's fun to style your floating shelves with beautiful objects, don't forget about functionality! Consider the placement of items you use frequently, such as mugs, plates, or spices, and keep them within easy reach.

The goal is to strike a balance between aesthetics and practicality so that your kitchen floating shelves are both beautiful to look at and useful in your daily routine.

Related: 15 Creative Ways to Use Your Butcher Block Floating Shelves

 
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Choose Forever Joint Tops for Kitchen Floating Shelves!

Forever Joint Tops, crafting butcher block products since 2012, is skilled in working with various wood types. We hand craft butcher block countertops, tables, bar tops, kitchen islands, desktops, work desks, and floating shelves.

Floating shelves offer endless opportunities to showcase your style while also adding functionality to your kitchen. Whether you prefer a minimal, modern look or a cozy feel, the tips we shared in this article can hopefully help you style your floating shelves in a way that enhances your kitchen's decor and makes the most of your space! Remember, there are no strict rules—just have fun and let your personality shine through!

Contact Us

Ready to customize your Hardwood and Pine kitchen butcher block floating shelves? Contact us at (608) 566-6903 for personalized assistance and to start your journey with a company that truly cares about bringing your butcher block shelving dreams to life!

For further reference and inspiration for your kitchen floating shelves, please take a look at our instruction guide and buying guide.


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