Ladder shelves are fantastic in creating a quirky shelving space, whilst remaining effective and pleasing to the eye. Flowers and plants look beautiful when placed on ladder shelves as the leaves drape over the rungs. As the name suggests, these shelves resemble a ladder, so can be easily propped against the wall and require minimal DIY skills. Furthermore, if renting a property with strict rules and regulations, ladder shelves are not required to be drilled into the wall.
Following a more industrial design, open and closed shelves resemble racks which can be found in warehouses. However, they differ as boxes can also be fitted into these shelves. They are effective in terms of storage, as within the ‘closed’ sections bulky items can be stored away, removing clutter from a room. They are usually made from metal, adding to the industrial and minimalist aesthetic and work well with flat walls.
Hanging wall shelves resemble outdoor swings and are a fun way to create a homely space. They are usually suspended by either rope or metal pipes, working well with chic and bohemian designs.
If you have a floor plan available with the dimensions of the room, considering built-in shelves may be a useful avenue to explore. Buildings bursting with character often have awkward alcoves and angled ceilings, yet a built-in shelf is an effective way to make use of the space. They can be surprisingly economical and sturdy too, requiring no maintenance.
These shelves are easily accessible and can be built at home. Free-standing shelves usually stand against a wall and it is possible to create attractive displays of photos and books in each of the compartments. Most commonly, these shelves have flat backs and are made of metal, but can be made of wood if that suits the design of the room better.
These shelves will require a little bit of DIY, but function well in all varieties of rooms. They are the most common type of shelf, as they are viewed as the safest. They are sturdy and work well for families with young children or pets. Brackets are attached to the wall then the shelf is secured on top. There are a vast variety of designs and all you will need is the dimensions of the wall space to choose the perfect shelf.
Creating an edgy and alternative design, floating wall shelves have become increasingly popular over recent years. They essentially resemble a 3D shape suspended on the wall, instantly adding a dramatic flair to a room. If attached properly, they can hold a good amount of weight and offer a practical and effective design.