Open shelving looks gorgeous on Pinterest and Instagram, until you try it yourself and end up with a chaotic mess of mugs, books, and random bowls. If you’ve ever stared at your shelves wondering why they don’t look effortlessly chic like the ones online, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be an interior designer (or hide half your stuff) to make your open shelves look stunning. The trick is knowing how to style them intentionally, balancing form and function without sacrificing your sanity or creating unnecessary clutter. Whether you’re dealing with a kitchen, living room, or even bathroom shelves, these 14 practical tips will help you master the art of stylish storage. 1. Leave Breathing Room Image Source: Jeniffer pacca interior One of the biggest mistakes with open shelving is trying to fill every inch. But here’s the truth: space is a design choice. Leaving “breathing room” between objects creates a sense of calm and control. It allows the eye to rest, and helps your favorite pieces stand out. Don’t be afraid of a nearly empty shelf or an open corner, negative space gives your layout balance and sophistication.  Think of it like a well-designed room: not every wall needs art, and not every table needs something on it. In fact, on Instagram and in styled homes, some of the most elegant shelves are the least crowded. Try styling one shelf with just three objects and let the rest be open. It may feel weird at first, but the visual clarity it brings is worth it. 2. Stick to a Cohesive Color Palette Image Source: House Beautiful A cohesive color palette can make your open shelving look clean, organized, and pulled-together. Limit your colors to 3-4 tones that complement your room’s overall design. For example, pairing shades of white, beige, and soft green with natural wood accents can create a serene, cohesive look.  You don’t need to match every item, but when colors are repeated across the display, it helps the shelves feel like a curated collection rather than a chaotic mix. Instagram is full of examples where people use neutrals like beige, black, and white with pops of color to create harmony. It’s about repetition and rhythm, not matching everything exactly. 3. Mix Decorative and Functional Items Image Source: Stevie storck Open shelving is the perfect opportunity to display things that are both functional and decorative. Instead of only showcasing decorative trinkets, mix in everyday items that you use, like mugs, bowls, or utensils, but in a way that enhances the space.  For example, store your favorite cookbooks in a neat stack and top them off with a small decorative object. In your living room, place a few stylish baskets next to a framed family photo. Instagram-worthy shelves often combine these elements effortlessly: function meets beauty. This approach helps avoid the “too-styled” look and makes the shelves feel lived-in and real. 4. Create “Moments” or Zones Image Source: Stieves Storck Instead of filling your shelves with a random collection of objects, create distinct zones or “moments” that each tell their own little story. One shelf could be all about your favorite kitchen essentials, think jars of spices, a colorful bowl, and a stack of neatly arranged plates. Another zone could focus on artwork, a candle, and a potted plant. Instagram shelves often feature this technique, grouping like-items together while still leaving room for space to breathe. Each shelf or corner should feel like its own little vignette, rather than a disjointed pile of stuff. 5. Keep It Simple Image Source: House Beautiful Sometimes the best shelves are the simplest ones. You don’t need tons of stuff to make open shelving look good,just a few well-chosen pieces can do the trick. Think a small stack of books, a nice candle, maybe a little plant or framed photo. That’s it. When you keep things simple, your space feels calm and intentional, not busy or overwhelming. Stick to a few colors or materials you love, and repeat them here and there. Simple shelves are easier to clean, easier to update, and they let your favorite items shine. Don’t overthink it, less really can be more. 6. Add a Touch of Lighting Image Source: House Beautiful Lighting can instantly elevate the look of your open shelves. Try adding small LED strip lights or puck lights underneath or around the shelves to highlight your display. Lighting not only draws attention to your favorite items but also adds ambiance, especially in the evening when natural light fades. Whether it’s a dim glow from fairy lights or a soft lamp placed on a lower shelf, lighting creates warmth and dimension. Many Instagram shelf styling photos include clever lighting solutions to make the shelves appear even more stylish and cozy. 7. Lean Into Maximalism Image Source: House Beautiful Who says open shelves have to be minimal? If you love color, texture, and a little visual chaos,lean into maximalism. Layer in books, bold ceramics, framed art, vintage finds, souvenirs, candles, plants, and whatever else brings you joy. The key to keeping it from feeling messy? Organize your “clutter” with intention. Create groupings, balance heights, and play with repetition. For example, a stack of books topped with a funky candle and framed photo can feel cohesive when echoed across the shelf in a different color scheme. Maximalist shelves should tell a story, your story. They’re less about perfection and more about personality. Some of the most scroll-stopping selfies on Instagram are bursting with layered detail, but every piece feels like it belongs. 8. Stack, Lean, and Layer Image Source: The Spruce Stacking and leaning objects is a great way to add dimension and interest to your shelves without making them feel too cluttered. Stack books horizontally to create a base for smaller objects, or lean framed art or cutting boards at the back. This layering effect adds depth and keeps the shelves from looking too flat.  On Instagram, you’ll often see people layering items, stacking books or trays, and using vertical space to their advantage. Play around with these techniques,leaning a mirror behind a few smaller objects or stacking plates in a more creative way can make all the difference in the overall vibe. 9. Make Books Your Design Tool Image Source: House Beautiful Books do more than fill space,they shape it. Use books on open shelves not just for reading, but for structure. Stack them horizontally to lift a favorite object. Line them vertically to act as natural dividers. Color-code them for impact, or turn the spines inward for a softer, neutral vibe.  Want to create a visual anchor? Use oversized art books on a lower shelf. Or go high-contrast by mixing dark covers with light ceramics. Don’t be afraid to mix in coffee table books, cookbooks, or even old novels, books make shelves feel lived-in and loved. Plus, they’re endlessly flexible: you can rotate them seasonally, by mood, or just when the layout needs a little shake-up. 10. Bring in Greenery Image Source: House Beautiful Plants instantly give open shelves that fresh, alive feeling, even if the rest of your styling is super minimal. Just one small potted plant can soften sharp edges and add a pop of color. Want something dramatic? Let a trailing vine like pothos or string of pearls spill over the side. Prefer low-maintenance? Snake plants, ZZ plant, or faux greenery (just pick realistic ones) work beautifully. Greenery balances out hard surfaces and breaks up too many square or angular shapes. It adds movement, softness, and that organic touch you didn’t know your shelves needed. 11. Consider a Metal Display Image Source: House Beautiful Want your shelves to feel fresh, unexpected, or even a bit industrial? Bring in metal. Brass, copper, black iron, or brushed gold can add edge and shine to a wood-heavy or all-white setup. Think wire baskets, metal trays, bookends, or even sculptural objects like orbs or candle holders. These pieces add contrast, both in texture and tone. A warm brass vase next to matte ceramics? Chic. A black iron bowl with soft linens? Instant cool. Metal also reflects light, so it subtly brightens your shelf display. If your shelves feel too “safe” or one-note, try mixing in one or two metal accents to break it up. Just keep your finishes consistent across a few items so it doesn’t feel random.  12. Give It an Industrial Feel Image Source: House Beautiful If your space leans modern or you love that raw, edgy look, give your shelves an industrial touch. Start with simple materials like black iron, weathered wood, or glass. Think metal bookends, wire baskets, or even a small concrete planter. These pieces bring in texture and character without feeling fussy. Industrial style is all about function with style, so include useful items like canisters, jars, or folded linens, just in clean, structured shapes. Keep the color palette neutral: blacks, greys, warm woods, and maybe a little greenery to soften it up. This look works especially well in kitchens, offices, or anywhere you want a more grounded, unfussy vibe. 13. Use the Rule of Threes Image Source: Diy.aus There’s a reason stylists swear by the “rule of threes.” When you group items in odd numbers,especially threes,it instantly feels more natural and balanced. Our eyes are drawn to asymmetry, so a trio of objects looks more relaxed and interesting than two or four. Try styling a shelf with three items: maybe a candle, a small stack of books, and a vase. Vary the height and shape of each piece to keep it dynamic. You can also layer within the group, like leaning a photo behind a shorter object. This idea works for any shelf, big or small, and helps prevent that stiff, over-styled look. 14. Mix in Something Old Image Source: House Beautiful Bringing a little age to your shelves can add depth and personality. Try mixing in a vintage item, a brass candlestick, an old book, a ceramic jug, or a framed black-and-white photo. These pieces don’t have to be big or pricey. Thrift stores, flea markets, and even your grandparents’ attic can be treasure troves. The charm of something old lies in its imperfections, the patina, the texture, the story it carries. When you pair antiques with modern decor, it creates a nice contrast that makes your shelves feel layered and lived-in, not just styled for show. One or two well-placed vintage finds can warm up the whole space and make it feel more like home. It’s an easy way to add soul without adding clutter. Wrap Up Open shelving isn’t just about storage, it’s a chance to show off your style in a way that feels both personal and practical. Whether you lean minimalist, love a bold mix of colors and textures, or want to keep things simple and airy, these shelf styling ideas can help you strike the perfect balance between beauty and function.  At Home Designing, we believe great design doesn’t have to be complicated, it just needs to feel like you. So whether you’re refreshing a single shelf or rethinking an entire room, we hope these tips give you the confidence to style with ease and keep the clutter away, without losing the character that makes your home yours.

05/13 — 2025 by abduzeedo Explore the minimalist and confident design of Rădăcini Long Charmat's branding and packaging design. A study in understated luxury. In the world of branding and packaging design, there are creations that speak volumes without uttering a single loud word. They command attention through their quiet confidence and meticulous detail. One such example is the packaging for Rădăcini Long Charmat sparkling wine, a testament to thoughtful design by True Agency. True Agency embarked on this project with a clear vision: to build the visual identity around the bottle’s distinct physical presence. The Rădăcini Long Charmat bottle is notably rounded, low, and stable, possessing a naturally grounded silhouette. This unique form wasn't just a container; it became the very foundation for a design language that is intentionally minimal, confident, and structured. Less is More: The Power of Intentional Minimization Every detail in this branding and packaging design has been pared back, allowing the bottle itself to take center stage. This isn't about a lack of embellishment; it’s a strategic choice. There's no unnecessary ornamentation. Instead, each element serves a purpose, enhancing proportion, balance, and clarity across the entire composition. It’s a masterclass in restraint, where every decision is deliberate and impactful. The use of gold foil is a signature accent. Applied both on the neck and repeated in the circular label, it creates a warm contrast against a deep, dark background. This metallic surface adds a sense of quiet luxury. The gold isn't there to decorate, but to elevate, catching light subtly and adding depth without distraction. It invites a closer look, hinting at the quality within. Typography as a Visual Anchor Typography plays a critical role, appearing sparse, purposeful, and considered. A horizontal band acts as a visual anchor, guiding the eye and emphasizing symmetry. Notably, the phrase "Long Charmat Method" doesn't scream as a headline. Instead, it appears as a subtle detail, a cue for those who appreciate craftsmanship and production precision. This approach underscores the brand's dedication to quality, speaking to a discerning audience without overt declarations. This label is deeply rooted in material, rhythm, and restraint. At first glance, it appears minimal. However, upon closer inspection, it reveals nuance and depth. The design functions as a visual system that respects attention, rather than demanding it. It quietly invites the viewer to appreciate its sophistication and understated elegance. The Rădăcini Long Charmat label truly reflects the quality and refinement of the product it contains, with every element contributing to its overall sense of quiet luxury and craft. For more insights into their work, explore True Agency’s portfolio: True Agency. Branding and packaging design artifacts Tags packaging design

Skip to content News Plants A leaf’s geometry determines whether it falls far from its tree Round leaves land near the tree, while lobed, asymmetrical leaves fly far Scientists have shown that leaves’ shapes and symmetry let them fall close to the tree — allowing the tree access to the nutrients in them. Vicente Méndez/Getty Images By Bethany Brookshire 2 hours ago An apple may not fall far from the tree, but for a leaf, it depends on its shape. Elm or apple leaves — oval and symmetrical, with few protruding lobes — fall quickly, making them likely to end up close to the tree’s base. Adding lobes and asymmetry to leaves slows their descent, causing them to fall farther away, physicists Matthew Biviano and Kaare Jensen report May 7 in Journal of the Royal Society Interface. Sign up for our newsletter We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.

Casa De Blas | © Hisao Suzuki Set on a hillside in Sevilla la Nueva, a town southwest of Madrid, Casa De Blas is a distilled expression of the architectural dialectic between weight and lightness, earth and sky. Designed in 2000 by Spanish architect Alberto Campo Baeza, the house is both an act of landscape intervention and a metaphysical construct, a spatial meditation on essential form and material logic. Casa De Blas Technical Information Architects1-3: Alberto Campo Baeza Location: Sevilla la Nueva, Madrid, Spain Area: 250 m2 | 2,690 Sq. Ft. Project Year: 2000 Photographs: © Hisao Suzuki This house aims to be a literal translation of the idea of the tectonic box upon the stereotomic box. Like a distillation of the most essential in architecture. Once again, more with less. – Alberto Campo Baeza Casa De Blas Photographs © Hisao Suzuki © Hisao Suzuki © Hisao Suzuki © Hisao Suzuki © Hisao Suzuki © Hisao Suzuki The Architecture of Duality: Ground and Sky Campo Baeza’s work consistently revolves around a search for architectural clarity. In Casa De Blas, this clarity manifests as two boxes: a grounded concrete volume that holds the domestic program and a glass pavilion above that elevates the act of looking. The house is not merely built on the landscape; it is in dialogue with it. The conceptual strategy of Casa De Blas is rooted in a tectonic-syntactic opposition between the stereotomic base and the tectonic roof. The lower portion consists of a robust concrete platform embedded in the earth like a carved podium. This base supports a lighter glass structure above, where steel elements define the enclosure with minimal mass. The house engages the site with careful restraint. Rather than dominate the hilltop, it accepts the slope and turns its attention to the northern view of the Sierra de Guadarrama. This orientation informs light and shadow’s spatial organization and phenomenological qualities. Inside the concrete base, the architecture follows a precise logic. A service band is located toward the rear, while primary living spaces occupy the front, facing the landscape. Square window openings, deeply set into the thick walls, frame views with the intentionality of a camera obscura. These apertures do not merely let in light; they shape perception, creating a sense of distance and inwardness. The Pavilion as Apparatus for Contemplation Above this grounded core, the transparent upper volume serves as a lookout. Reached from the interior by ascending stairs, the glass box sits lightly on the podium, offering a counterpoint to the cave-like enclosure below. There is no visible carpentry, just frameless glazing and a white steel canopy, which shades the upper level while preserving its airy, open quality. The north-facing glass stretches toward the edge, embracing the panoramic view. On the southern side, the volume recedes to create a shaded void, regulating solar gain. This sectional asymmetry allows the architecture to perform environmentally without compromising its compositional purity. Campo Baeza describes the house as a literal translation of the idea of a tectonic box upon a stereotomic box. The reference is not metaphorical but structural and spatial. The upper pavilion is not a symbol of transparency but a mechanism for perception. In this way, the house operates as a philosophical instrument as much as a dwelling. Casa De Blas Proportion and Compositional Rigour The power of the project lies in the spatial sequence from the heavy to the light, from the shaded to the luminous. The contrast between these two atmospheres creates a duality of experience: shelter and openness, introspection and projection. The structural order contributes to this sense of serenity. Steel supports are arranged in double symmetry, reinforcing the composition’s static quality. Nothing feels arbitrary. Every gesture is reduced to its essential nature. The palette is limited to concrete, glass, and steel, yet the result is rich in meaning. The interior is equally restrained, avoiding superfluous detailing. It is architecture as a frame, a backdrop for landscape and thought. Campo Baeza’s work here touches the territory of the poetic, not through expressionism but through control and abstraction. Casa De Blas Plans Concept | © Alberto Campo Baeza North Elevation | © Alberto Campo Baeza East Elevation | © Alberto Campo Baeza Upper Level | © Alberto Campo Baeza Floor Plan | © Alberto Campo Baeza Section | © Alberto Campo Baeza Casa De Blas Image Gallery About Alberto Campo Baeza Alberto Campo Baeza is a Spanish architect born in 1946 in Valladolid. Renowned for his minimalist and essentialist approach, he emphasizes the interplay of light, gravity, and proportion in his designs. His notable works include the Casa Turégano, Casa de Blas, and the Caja de Granada headquarters. Campo Baeza was a full-time design professor at the Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Madrid (ETSAM) from 1986 until his retirement in 2017. He has received numerous accolades throughout his career, such as the RIBA International Fellowship and the Heinrich Tessenow Gold Medal, recognizing his contributions to contemporary architecture. Credits and Additional Notes Design Team: Alberto Campo Baeza, Alfonso González Gamo Structural Engineer: Julio Martínez Calzón, MC-2 Collaborators: Teresa Campos