Hexagon shelves have become a popular trend in modern interior design, providing a unique blend of function and aesthetic appeal. Their geometric shape allows for creative arrangements, making them versatile for various spaces, from living rooms to home offices.
By showcasing books, plants, or decorative items, hexagon shelves can enhance the visual interest of any wall. In this guide, we will explore how to style hexagon shelves, transforming them into standout features in your home.
Benefits of Using Hexagon Shelves
Hexagon shelves offer numerous advantages that make them an excellent choice for home decor. Firstly, their unique shape adds a contemporary touch to any room, setting them apart from traditional shelving options. This distinct design allows for creative layering and arrangements, providing an opportunity to express personal style.
Additionally, hexagon shelves are highly functional; they create additional storage without occupying too much floor space, ideal for smaller rooms. These shelves can also serve as stylish platforms for displaying artwork or photographs, transforming any blank wall into an engaging focal point. Lastly, they promote organization by encouraging a tidy display of various items, making it easy to showcase beloved memorabilia while keeping clutter at bay.
Choosing the Right Placement
When it comes to styling hexagon shelves, placement is key to maximising their impact. Start by selecting a wall that serves as a focal point in the room, such as above a sofa, in a hallway, or as part of a gallery wall. Ensure the height is appropriate; the bottom of the shelves should typically be 4 to 5 feet from the ground for easy visibility and access.
Consider the surrounding decor and furniture to create harmony—placing the shelves in proximity to other design elements will help unify the space. Lastly, pay attention to lighting; natural light can highlight the shelves, while strategically placed lamps can create a warm ambiance in the evening.
10 Methods How to Style Hexagon Shelves
1. Create a Focal Point with Statement Pieces
One of the most effective ways to style hexagon shelves is by using them to showcase statement pieces. Select items that are bold or have sentimental value, such as a small sculpture, a framed photo, or a unique vase.
Place these items at the center of the shelf, allowing the hexagonal shape to draw attention to them. The geometric lines of the shelves naturally guide the eye, making this method perfect for highlighting cherished or standout pieces. This approach works particularly well in living rooms or entryways, where you want to make a strong visual impact.
2. Utilize Negative Space for Balance
When styling hexagon shelves, it’s important to consider the use of negative space. Instead of filling every shelf with items, leave some shelves partially or completely empty to create a sense of balance and avoid overcrowding. The unique shape of hexagon shelves can create a busy look if overfilled, so strategic use of negative space allows each item to stand out more effectively. This method works particularly well in minimalist or modern interiors, where simplicity and clean lines are key design elements.
3. Group Similar Items for Cohesion
To create a cohesive look, consider grouping similar items together on your hexagon shelves. For example, you could display a collection of small potted plants, a series of books, or a set of candles. The hexagonal shape lends itself well to repetition, so arranging like items in clusters creates a harmonious and visually pleasing display. This method not only helps to unify the look of your shelves but also allows you to showcase collections in an organized and aesthetically appealing way.
4. Play with Height and Depth
Hexagon shelves offer multiple angles and dimensions, making them perfect for experimenting with height and depth. Mix and match items of varying heights to create a dynamic display. Place taller items, such as vases or figurines, towards the back of the shelf and shorter items, like small decor pieces, towards the front. This layering effect adds depth to your display, making it more visually interesting. Additionally, varying the height of items on adjacent shelves can create a sense of movement and flow across the entire display.
5. Integrate Natural Elements
Natural elements, such as plants, wood, and stones, pair beautifully with the geometric lines of hexagon shelves. Consider placing small potted succulents, air plants, or other greenery on your shelves to bring a touch of nature into your space. Wooden objects, whether in the form of carved figures or rustic frames, also work well within the hexagonal framework, adding warmth and texture to the display. Integrating natural elements helps soften the sharp lines of the hexagon shape, creating a balanced and inviting look.
6. Use a Monochromatic Color Scheme
For a sleek and modern look, consider styling your hexagon shelves with a monochromatic color scheme. Choose items in varying shades of the same color and arrange them on the shelves. This method creates a sophisticated and cohesive appearance, allowing the hexagonal shape to stand out while maintaining a unified look. You can play with different textures within the same color family, such as matte and glossy finishes, to add depth and interest. This approach is particularly effective in contemporary or minimalist spaces where a streamlined aesthetic is desired.
7. Incorporate Lighting for Ambiance
Adding lighting to your hexagon shelves can enhance the overall ambiance of your room while highlighting the items on display. Consider installing LED strip lights or small puck lights on the underside of each shelf. The light will create a warm glow that emphasizes the geometric shape of the shelves and adds a cozy atmosphere to your space. This method works well in any room, from living rooms to bedrooms, and is particularly effective for evening or ambient lighting. It also allows your shelves to serve as both functional storage and an artistic light feature.
8. Mix Different Textures for Contrast
To create a visually appealing display, mix different textures on your hexagon shelves. Combine smooth objects, like ceramic vases, with rougher materials, such as woven baskets or rustic wood. The contrast between textures adds interest and depth to your arrangement, making it more engaging to look at. Hexagon shelves, with their sharp angles and clean lines, provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of textures. This method is ideal for adding warmth and character to your space, especially in eclectic or bohemian interiors.
9. Create a Theme-Based Display
Another way to style hexagon shelves is by creating a theme-based display. Choose a theme, such as travel, nature, or vintage, and curate items that fit within that theme. For example, a travel-themed display might include small globes, postcards, and souvenirs from your trips. By sticking to a specific theme, you create a cohesive and intentional look that tells a story. This method is particularly effective in personal spaces, like home offices or bedrooms, where you can showcase items that reflect your interests and experiences.
10. Combine Books with Decorative Objects
Books are a classic choice for styling shelves, and hexagon shelves are no exception. Combine books with decorative objects to create a balanced and stylish display. You can arrange books vertically with their spines facing out, or stack them horizontally with a decorative object on top. Consider mixing books of different sizes and colors for added visual interest. The hexagonal shape of the shelves offers a unique way to display books, especially when combined with other decor items like candles, small plants, or photo frames. This method is versatile and works well in any room where you want to add a touch of personal style.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Shelves
One of the most frequent errors when styling hexagon shelves is overcrowding. It can be tempting to fill every space with items, but this can lead to a cluttered look. Be mindful of the balance between showcasing items and allowing sufficient negative space for each piece to shine.
- Neglecting Scale and Proportion
Failing to consider the scale and proportion of items can result in an unappealing display. Ensure that the objects you choose complement each other in size, so smaller pieces don’t get lost or overshadowed by larger ones. This consideration helps maintain visual harmony and makes sure your display feels intentional.
- Ignoring the Shelf’s Shape
Hexagon shelves have a unique shape that provides a certain aesthetic appeal. One common mistake is treating them like traditional rectangular shelves. Instead, embrace the geometric nature and arrange items in a way that fits with the overall shape, enhancing the visual interest.
- Lack of Cohesion in Color and Theme
A disjointed display can detract from the beauty of hexagon shelves. Avoid mixing too many contrasting colours and styles without a unifying theme. Selecting a cohesive colour palette or theme helps create a more curated and sophisticated look.
Conclusion
Styling hexagon shelves offers a creative opportunity to enhance your living space with unique displays that reflect your personality and taste. By employing techniques such as integrating natural elements, playing with height and depth, and creating theme-based arrangements, you can transform your shelves from mere storage solutions into captivating focal points. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to style hexagon shelves!
Huston Douthit is a distinguished figure in the world of furniture design, with a decade of expertise creating innovative and sustainable furniture solutions. His professional focus lies in merging traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, fostering designs that are both practical and environmentally conscious. As the author of Fruniturix, Huston delves into the art and science of furniture-making, inspiring artisans and industry professionals alike.
Education
- RMIT University (Melbourne, Australia)
Associate Degree in Design (Furniture)- Focus on sustainable design, industry-driven projects, and practical craftsmanship.
- Gained hands-on experience with traditional and digital manufacturing tools, such as CAD and CNC software.
- Nottingham Trent University (United Kingdom)
Bachelor’s in Furniture and Product Design (Honors)- Specialized in product design with a focus on blending creativity with production techniques.
- Participated in industry projects, working with companies like John Lewis and Vitsoe to gain real-world insights.
Publications and Impact
In Fruniturix, Huston shares his insights on furniture design processes, materials, and strategies for efficient production. His writing bridges the gap between artisan knowledge and modern industry needs, making it a must-read for both budding designers and seasoned professionals.