Chip Wade’s Guide to Choosing And Installing Shelves
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This past year, Shelfology teamed up with Chip Wade on his Pinhoti Peak project, a private and corporate getaway nestled deep within the Georgian mountains. Known for his knack for building and creating stylish spaces, Chip gained recognition on HGTV. He continues his passion for design through his company, Wade Built, LLC. In this piece, Chip shares his insights on how to infuse style into a room using contemporary shelving.
Chip Wade. Shelfology Skaksel shelves create a gallery-like vibe.
Over time, shelves have evolved from mere functional pieces to become prominent design elements in contemporary interiors. Their adaptability makes them suitable for any space—whether it's a living room, bedroom, or even a media room.
Pinhoti Peak’s media room offers plenty of entertainment options!
Selecting the right shelves is vital for achieving a modern aesthetic. Not all shelves are the same, and the type you choose can either blend seamlessly or stand out as a focal point. When picking shelves, consider the material, color, and style. Glass shelves or those with a glossy finish provide a sleek, modern look, whereas natural wood or rustic styles can add warmth and texture to a space.
The Shelfology Fat Lippie Picture Ledge complements the edgy vibe of a record collection.Aksel Walnut Floating Shelf adds warmth to a pottery display.Skaksel Walnut combines metal and wood for a modern twist.Double Bender FM shelves work well in both offices and homes.
Another consideration when choosing shelves is the weight they need to support. Sturdy shelves are essential for heavier items to prevent sagging or damage. Additionally, the size of the shelf should align with the size of the objects it will hold.
Shelfology offers a variety of customizable, high-quality shelving options with different weight capacities to suit your project needs. At Pinhoti, we opted for a mix of metal and walnut shelves from their Skaksel Wood & Steel and Bender Wall Mounted Collections.
POSITIONING SHELVES FOR MODERN INTERIORS
Once you've selected the right shelves, proper placement is key to achieving a contemporary look. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
HEIGHT
The height at which you place your shelves impacts the balance and harmony of your space. Consider the ceiling height and the size of the items you intend to store when deciding where to position your shelves.
PROPORTION
Proportion is critical when placing shelves. The size of your shelves should correspond to the wall and the items you plan to display. For multiple shelves, ensure the spacing between them aligns proportionally with the size of the objects.
FUNCTIONALITY
Think about the practical use of the shelves when positioning them. If you want to store daily essentials or frequently used items, place the shelves at a convenient height.
Photo Credit: Chip Wade. Planning in Sketchup for Skaksels and a bench below the big screen.Photo Credit: Chip Wade. Mock-ups for the Bender shelf wall
We usually mock up our layouts in SketchUp, like the image above for the Media Room at Pinhoti, but also test the setup on the floor to ensure we're satisfied with the arrangement before committing to drilling holes in the walls.
STYLING SHELVES IN A MODERN WAY
Styling your shelves is an art that can enhance or detract from your space’s overall look. Here are some tips for styling shelves in a modern way:
Photo Credit: Chip Wade. The right accessories can modernize your space.
KEEP IT MINIMALIST
A minimalist approach is essential for a modern look. Avoid cluttering shelves with too many items and stick to a neutral color palette.
Photo Credit: Chip Wade. Games styled on these Double Bender shelves offer additional entertainment options!
GROUP SIMILAR ITEMS
Group similar items together to create a cohesive appearance. Consider grouping decor by color or texture to make a bold statement.
MIX AND MATCH MATERIALS
Combine different materials and textures to add depth and interest to your design. We mixed natural wood with metal, as seen in this project, or paired them with glass for a unique, contemporary look.
Photo Credit: Chip Wade. Double Benders and Benders above the couch hold game pieces.
LIGHT YOUR SHELVES WITH LEDS
Adding LED lights to floating shelves creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. LEDs can highlight your decor and serve as a focal point in your design. Shelfology offers LED options built into their shelves for convenience.
INCORPORATE PLANTS
Houseplants bring life and texture indoors. Consider adding small potted plants to your floating shelves for a natural and calming effect.
ENJOY THIS MONTAGE OF OUR SHELF INSTALLATION AT PINHOTI!
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