How High Should Shelves Be?
As an interior designer, I have come across many clients who struggle with deciding the height of the shelves in their homes. It may seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in the overall look and functionality of a space. In this article, I will share my personal experience and provide a step-by-step guide, top 10 tips and ideas, pros and cons, and my personal review and suggestion on how high shelves should be.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1:
Determine the purpose of the shelves. Are they for decorative purposes or for storage?
Step 2:
Measure the height of the tallest item you plan to store on the shelves.
Step 3:
Decide on the distance between each shelf. This will depend on the height of the items you plan to store.
Step 4:
Consider the height of the room. If the room has high ceilings, you may want to consider taller shelves.
Step 5:
Take into account the furniture in the room. If you have a low sofa or bed, you may want to have lower shelves.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Use floating shelves to create a minimalist and modern look.
2. Consider using adjustable shelves to allow for flexibility in the future.
3. Use shelves to create a focal point in the room.
4. Mix and match different shelf heights to create visual interest.
5. Use shelves to display your favorite books or collectibles.
6. Consider using shelves in unconventional spaces, such as above the toilet or in a corner.
7. Use shelves to create a gallery wall with framed photos and artwork.
8. Use shelves to divide a room and create a sense of privacy.
9. Use shelves to create a functional workspace in a small room.
10. Use shelves to store and organize your kitchen items.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Shelves can provide additional storage space in a room.
– Shelves can be used to display decorative items and create a focal point.
– Shelves can be customized to fit any space or style.
Cons:
– Shelves can accumulate dust and require regular cleaning.
– Shelves can become cluttered if not organized properly.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Based on my experience, I suggest measuring the height of the room and the tallest item you plan to store before deciding on the height of the shelves. It’s also important to consider the purpose of the shelves and the furniture in the room. I recommend using adjustable shelves to allow for flexibility in the future. Overall, shelves can be a great addition to any room and can provide both storage and decorative benefits.
Question & Answer
Q: How high should shelves be above a desk?
A: Shelves above a desk should be at least 18 inches above the surface of the desk to allow for ample workspace.
FAQs
Q: How many shelves should I have in a room?
A: The number of shelves in a room will depend on the size of the room and the purpose of the shelves. A general rule of thumb is to have no more than three to four shelves per wall to avoid overcrowding.
Q: What is the ideal distance between shelves?
A: The ideal distance between shelves will depend on the height of the items you plan to store. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 12 to 18 inches of space between each shelf.