Decorating shelves can be a tricky business. Interior designers train for years to get it right and to make it even harder, trends come and go in a blink of an eye. So, what do you do? Trawl the internet endlessly until inspiration falls into your lap?
If you’re tired of looking for shelf ideas to up your styling game, then you need look no further. Dive into our new shelf décor trends for 2025 and get your shelf styling on point this year.
Lighting in layers
It’s the revolution everyone has been calling for – ‘the big light’ has been officially ousted and layered lighting is in.
Relying on multiple smaller light sources can bring even more depth and mood to your space. Gone are the days of having to squint with the clinical beams, lighting has now become malleable, it’s there to suit the space and occasion. So, what does this mean for your shelf décor?
- Smaller lights and more of them: invest in smaller lights and place them strategically around your shelving
- Invest in a nice lamp or lamps: these can be excellent feature pieces when not in use but can also add to your layering when you switch them on
Clay and ceramics
While clay and ceramics have been firmly in for some time, there’s no sign of this changing in 2025.
As decorative home accessories, clay and ceramics bring organic elements to your interior – they bring some of the outside in. So how can you tie this in to your shelf décor?
- Eclectic collecting: you’ll find statement ceramic pieces when you least expect it, so always keep your shelf décor in mind when you’re out and about
- Don’t be afraid to display: avoid the cliché plate stands on your shelves but don’t be afraid to display your beautiful ceramic pieces proudly
Back to nature
Plants and natural materials are the unsung heroes of interior design – especially when it comes to decorating shelves – and in 2025 this is going to be even bigger.
Think plants, wood with untreated finishes, natural fibres, all of it will help your space breathe and give it a sense of nature. And if you live in a more built up, metropolitan area or if your shelving is in a commercial space, then this shelf décor trend is going to be one for you.
So how will you pull nature from the outdoors and onto your shelves?
- Trust us, there’s space for a plant: you may think there’s no room for a plant on your sideboard but splash of green, no matter how small the space, will bring it to life
- It’s all natural: include natural woods, in the form of sculptures, and natural fibres, such as woven baskets, to bring a touch of nature to your shelving décor
Integrated tech
Whether you like it or not, tech is here to stay and it’s going to impact your shelf décor in 2025.
While most are avoiding full space-age chic, technology can still have huge benefits when you’re decorating your shelves.
- Your life made easier: embrace tech – like smart bulbs – to make your life a little easier and your shelves a little smarter
- Audio that amazes: speakers just keep getting smaller, they go almost unnoticed. Dot them across your shelves, conceal them and wow your guests with their favourite songs
Maximise your maximalism
Maximalism was big last year and it’s only going to get bigger in 2025. The style, which encourages bold patterns, vibrant colours and eclectic arrangements, offers a way to express a variety of emotions and tastes all in one go.
But if you’re considering a maximal approach to your shelf décor, there are a few rules you should keep in mind.
- Keep it fresh: maximalism depends on your ability to vary the colours and textures but still make it cohesive
- It’s all an experiment: make it playful and fun, and try any combinations and colours that spring to mind. You may, after all, surprise yourself
What will your shelf décor look like in 2025?
So now you know the biggest shelf décor trends of 2025, you can create your own perfectly styled shelves. But before you do, remember that above all else, your shelf decorations should be a reflection of your taste and style. No matter what’s trending, it’s all about you.
From your home office to a snug living room, we offer feature and bespoke modular shelving that will accent your spaces. If you need help finding the right shelves for you, get in touch today.
