Open-plan living spaces have become increasingly popular in modern homes, blurring the lines between traditional room divisions. This shift has created a demand for creative and stylish ways to delineate spaces without compromising the sense of openness. One of the most versatile and aesthetically pleasing solutions is incorporating shelves between the living room and dining room. These shelves not only provide valuable storage and display space but also act as a visual divider, subtly defining each area while maintaining a cohesive flow. From minimalist floating shelves to elaborate built-in units, the possibilities for designing with shelves are endless. Let’s explore 26 unique design ideas that showcase the transformative power of shelves in open-plan living.
Open Geometric Metal Shelving
Embrace industrial chic with open geometric metal shelving units. Black powder-coated steel frames with brass or copper accents can create a striking contrast against a light-colored wall. Geometric shapes like hexagons or diamonds add visual interest and allow for unique display arrangements. Incorporate warm wood tones in the living room furniture and dining table to balance the coolness of the metal. This style is popular in both US and EU modern lofts and apartments. Consider incorporating LED strip lighting within the geometric shapes for a dramatic effect, highlighting displayed objects and adding ambient lighting to the space.
Rustic Reclaimed Wood Bookcase
For a warmer, more organic feel, a bookcase crafted from reclaimed wood can add character and charm to your open-plan space. This style leans heavily into the farmhouse aesthetic popular in the US, particularly in rural areas and suburban homes embracing a more natural feel. Look for variations in wood tone and texture for a truly authentic look. Pair the bookcase with neutral-toned furniture and natural fiber rugs in the living and dining areas. Deep greens, blues, or earthy browns for accent colors can complement the wood tones beautifully. Consider incorporating open shelving sections alongside closed cabinets for a balanced display of books and decorative objects. In the EU, this style often incorporates more minimalist lines and lighter wood tones, blending Scandinavian design principles.
Floating Shelves with Integrated Lighting
Minimalist and modern, floating shelves with integrated LED lighting create a sleek and streamlined look. Opt for white or light grey shelves against a contrasting wall color, like navy or deep teal, a color combination trending in both the US and EU. These colors evoke a sense of calm and sophistication. The integrated lighting not only illuminates the displayed items but also adds a subtle layer of ambient lighting, perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere in the evenings. This design works particularly well in smaller spaces, as it doesn’t add visual bulk. Consider using different lengths and thicknesses of shelves for a dynamic and visually appealing arrangement.
Ladder-Style Shelf Unit
A leaning ladder-style shelf unit offers a playful and unconventional approach to dividing spaces. This style, with its open and airy feel, aligns well with the minimalist trends prevalent in Scandinavian design, gaining popularity in both the US and EU. Choose a natural wood finish for a bohemian vibe, or opt for a painted finish in a bold color like emerald green or sunny yellow to make a statement. This design is ideal for displaying plants, books, and decorative objects. Consider incorporating baskets or boxes on the shelves for additional storage and visual texture. The ladder style provides a dynamic vertical element, drawing the eye upward and enhancing the sense of space.
Half-Wall with Built-in Shelves
A half-wall with built-in shelves offers a more substantial division while maintaining visual connection between the living and dining areas. This design is frequently seen in renovated townhouses in urban areas of both the US and EU. Paint the half-wall a contrasting color to define the spaces further. For example, a deep charcoal gray half-wall with white shelves can create a dramatic and sophisticated look. Incorporate both open shelving and closed cabinets for a balance of display and storage. Consider adding under-shelf lighting to highlight displayed items and enhance the ambiance.
Curved Shelf Unit
A curved shelf unit adds a soft and organic touch to the space, contrasting with the often linear forms of furniture. This design element resonates with the biophilic design trend, which emphasizes incorporating natural shapes and forms into interiors. This trend is gaining significant traction in both the US and EU. Opt for a light wood finish for a Scandinavian feel, or choose a darker wood or a painted finish in a jewel tone like sapphire blue or ruby red for a more dramatic look. The curved shelves can be used to display books, plants, and decorative objects, adding a sculptural element to the room.
Double-Sided Bookcase
A double-sided bookcase provides ample storage and display space while acting as a substantial divider. This classic design element remains popular due to its functionality and versatility. Choose a style that complements both the living and dining room aesthetics. A traditional bookcase with glass doors can showcase valuable books and collectibles, while a more modern open shelving unit offers a lighter and airier feel. Incorporate adjustable shelves to accommodate items of varying sizes. Consider painting the back of the bookcase a contrasting color to add a pop of visual interest.
Suspended Shelf Unit
For a truly unique and eye-catching design, consider a suspended shelf unit that appears to float in mid-air. This design leans heavily into contemporary minimalist aesthetics, frequently seen in high-end apartments and modern architectural homes in both the US and EU. Cables or rods attached to the ceiling support the shelves, creating a dramatic and airy feel. Choose materials like glass or acrylic for the shelves to enhance the sense of weightlessness. This design is ideal for showcasing a curated collection of objects or plants.
Repurposed Items as Shelves
Embrace creativity and sustainability by repurposing old items as shelves. Vintage ladders, wooden crates, or even old suitcases can be transformed into unique and character-filled shelving units. This eclectic approach aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable and upcycled furniture in both the US and EU. Paint the items in coordinating colors or leave them in their original state for a more rustic look. This design adds a personal touch and a conversation starter to your space.
Mirrored Back Shelving
Add a touch of glamour and visually expand the space with mirrored back shelving. This design is particularly effective in smaller spaces as it reflects light and creates an illusion of depth. Mirrored furniture and accents are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, particularly in Art Deco-inspired interiors, a trend observed in major cities across the US and EU. Choose a shelf material that complements the mirror, such as sleek black lacquer or polished chrome. The mirrored back will reflect the objects displayed on the shelves, adding visual interest and sparkle to the room.
Industrial Pipe Shelving
For a raw and industrial aesthetic, construct shelving using metal pipes and reclaimed wood planks. This style aligns with the continued popularity of industrial design in both the US and EU, particularly in urban lofts and apartments. Black iron pipes and distressed wood create a rugged and masculine look. This design is ideal for displaying books, plants, and vintage or industrial-style décor. Consider incorporating Edison bulbs as task lighting or accent lighting to enhance the industrial vibe. The open shelving allows for flexibility in displaying items of varying sizes.
Built-in Shelves with a Desk
Maximize functionality by incorporating a built-in desk into your shelving unit. This design is perfect for creating a home office or study area within the open-plan space. With the rise of remote work, dedicated home office spaces are becoming increasingly important in homes across both the US and EU. The shelves above the desk provide storage for books, files, and office supplies. Choose a desk surface that complements the shelving material and the overall aesthetic of the room. Consider incorporating built-in lighting and power outlets for convenience.
Wine Rack Shelving
For wine enthusiasts, a shelving unit that incorporates a wine rack is a must-have. This design adds a sophisticated and functional element to the space, catering to the growing appreciation for wine culture in both the US and EU. The wine rack can be integrated into a larger shelving unit or stand alone as a focal point. Choose a material that complements the existing décor, such as wood, metal, or a combination of both. Consider incorporating stemware holders and a small counter area for serving.
Corner Shelving Unit
Maximize corner space with a custom-built or freestanding corner shelving unit. Corner units are a practical solution for utilizing often-overlooked spaces, a design element consistently popular in both the US and EU due to its space-saving benefits. This design is ideal for displaying books, plants, and decorative objects. Choose a style that complements the overall aesthetic of the room, from minimalist to traditional. Consider incorporating a mix of open shelves and closed cabinets for a balanced look.
Shelving with Sliding Doors
Shelving with sliding doors offers a versatile solution for concealing clutter and creating a clean and organized look. Sliding doors are a popular choice in contemporary design, offering a space-saving alternative to traditional hinged doors. This trend is prevalent in both the US and EU, particularly in apartments and smaller homes. Choose frosted glass or textured panels for the sliding doors to add visual interest while obscuring the contents of the shelves. This design is ideal for storing items that are not meant for display, such as media equipment or extra linens.
Asymmetrical Shelving Design
Break away from traditional symmetry with an asymmetrical shelving design. This contemporary approach adds visual interest and a dynamic element to the space. Asymmetrical designs are gaining popularity in both the US and EU as homeowners embrace more unconventional and expressive interiors. Use shelves of varying lengths and depths to create a unique and artistic arrangement. This design is ideal for displaying a curated collection of objects or creating a focal point in the room.
Plant Shelf Divider
Create a living wall by incorporating plants into your shelving unit. Bringing the outdoors in is a major trend in interior design, with biophilic design principles gaining traction in both the US and EU. This design adds a refreshing and natural element to the space while subtly dividing the living and dining areas. Choose shelves with varying heights to accommodate plants of different sizes. Consider incorporating trailing plants to create a cascading effect. Ensure adequate lighting for the plants to thrive.
Textured Wallpaper Backdrop for Shelves
Enhance the visual impact of your shelves by adding a textured wallpaper backdrop. Wallpaper is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with bold patterns and textures making a statement in interiors across the US and EU. Choose a wallpaper that complements the shelving material and the overall aesthetic of the room. A bold geometric pattern can create a dramatic focal point, while a subtle texture can add depth and dimension. The wallpaper will highlight the objects displayed on the shelves and add a layer of visual interest to the space.
Open Shelving with Baskets and Boxes
Combine open shelving with baskets and boxes to add visual texture and conceal clutter. This design offers a balance of display and storage, a practical solution that remains consistently popular in both the US and EU. Choose baskets and boxes in natural materials like wicker, seagrass, or fabric to add warmth and texture. Use them to store items that are not meant for display, such as blankets, remotes, or magazines. The open shelves can be used to display decorative objects, books, or plants.
Gallery Wall with Integrated Shelving
Combine a gallery wall with integrated shelving to create a dynamic and personalized display. Gallery walls remain a popular way to showcase artwork and personal photographs, a trend seen in homes across both the US and EU. Incorporate shelves of varying lengths and depths into the gallery wall arrangement to display objects alongside framed pieces. This design allows you to showcase your personality and interests while adding visual interest to the space.
Sculptural Shelf Unit
Make a statement with a sculptural shelf unit that serves as both a functional piece and a work of art. This design aligns with the growing appreciation for art and design in interiors, a trend observed in both the US and EU. Choose a shelf unit with a unique and eye-catching form, such as a twisting or interwoven design. This type of shelving can be crafted from various materials, including wood, metal, or acrylic. The sculptural element adds a focal point to the room and elevates the overall aesthetic.
