All About Wall Shelves

Have you run out of floor space in your home or office?  Are you looking for a way to keep decorative pieces away from small children?  Wall shelving may be the solution to your problem! Wall mounted shelves are a nice addition to your home, because they take up little room on an unused wall and are aesthetically pleasing.  Wall shelving is perfect for picture frames, nicknacks, candles, and other fragile items. 

Nature vs. nurture

Depending on the wall space available, there are several types of wall shelves available to you.  Some shelves are used more for decorative purposes, while others are used out of necessity (think of all those CDs you have no space for!)  No matter what your reason is, finding the perfect type of shelf is easy!

Freebird

Floating shelves are shelves which, true to their name, look like they are "floating."  These mounted shelves are fastened to your wall with shelf brackets, also called "L" brackets, which fit under the shelf, making them appear seamless. Floating shelves can be placed on just about any wall anywhere.  Try wood in your living room, and metal in your closet or bathroom. 

Corner pocket

Corner shelves are placed where two walls meet, having two straight edges and a rounded edge.  Corner shelves are great for items that may not necessarily be a focal point of your room, such as speakers.  They also work well in bathrooms to hold toiletries.

Cozy nights

Fireplace mantel shelves provide an excellent centerpiece for your fireplace, giving this area a sophisticated and elegant look.  Try a high quality wood that matches the finish on your furniture or floors.  Not only will a mantel give your fireplace a cleaner look, but you can place family heirlooms or other decorative pieces on the mantel shelf. 
   

Easy does it

Here are a few things to remember, once you decide what type of shelf you want:

Mounting your floating and corner shelves is easy!  All you need are the shelf brackets, the shelf, a tape measure, screws, and a screwdriver. Make sure that screws are fastened into wall studs, especially for heavier shelves made out of glass or wood. 

There are a variety of materials your shelf brackets can be made of, including wire and wood.  Wire or metal shelf brackets come in a variety of styles, which can add character to the overall appearance of your shelf.  Try a decorative metal shelf bracket with a wood shelf. 

If you plan on placing heavy items on your shelf, such as books, be sure to chose a strong material.  For lighter items, wire and laminate work well.

More information on shelving