How to choose the perfect shelf for your space - Floating, Bracketed or Live Edge?

List of contents:

1. Introduction
2. What to consider before choosing a shelf
3. Floating shelves – clean and minimal
4. Bracketed shelves – bold and practical
5. Live edge shelves – full of natural character
6. Matching your shelf with your room style
7. Choosing the right finish and colour
8. Installation and wall types
9. Styling tips for each type of shelf
10. Final tips before you buy

Introduction

Shelving is more than a place to store things. It can shape the mood of your room, bring balance to the wall, and showcase your personality through thoughtful styling. Whether you're adding a finishing touch or building function into your space, the type of shelf you choose matters. At Chill House, we craft shelves from solid wood, handmade in the UK, each one carrying its own natural character. In this guide, we walk you through our three core shelf types - floating, bracketed, and live edge to help you choose what works best for your home.

What to consider before choosing a shelf

Before picking a shelf, think about what you need it for. Are you displaying small decor items, housing books, or storing kitchenware? Consider the wall it will go on brick, plaster, or plasterboard and how much weight it needs to hold. Take accurate measurements and think about balance: will the shelf feel too small or too large on the wall? Lastly, consider your room's style. Do you want something minimalist, rustic, or industrial? These choices will narrow down your options.

Floating shelves – clean and minimal

Floating shelves have a sleek look thanks to their hidden mounting system. With no visible brackets, they blend into the wall and give a modern, light appearance. Ideal for Scandinavian, minimal, or contemporary interiors, floating shelves work well in kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and even as nightstands in smaller bedrooms. They’re best used for lightweight objects like framed prints, candles, and small plants. For safety and aesthetics, proper installation is essential, these shelves need to be completely level to maintain that clean floating effect.

Bracketed shelves – bold and practical

Bracketed shelves feature visible supports, typically made of steel or metal, which add structure and style. These shelves are great for heavier loads, like stacks of books, kitchen jars, or office supplies. The exposed brackets not only boost durability but also introduce a rustic or industrial aesthetic, depending on your choice of finish. Choose from black steel, brass, or powder-coated brackets to match your decor. They’re highly versatile and suit a wide range of rooms - especially kitchens, home offices, and children’s rooms where strength and style both matter.

Live edge shelves – full of natural character

If you want a shelf that feels truly unique, consider a live edge shelf. These are made from slabs of wood that retain the tree's natural edge, offering texture and individuality that’s impossible to replicate. No two pieces are alike, and that’s the charm. Live edge shelves suit spaces where you want to add warmth and organic flow – think above a fireplace, behind a sofa, or next to a reading chair. Because of their irregular edges and natural grain, they shine when styled simply. They’re also best mounted on solid walls due to their weight.

Matching your shelf with your room style

A shelf should feel like part of the room, not just an add-on. If your room is modern or minimal, go for floating shelves in pale tones like Natural Oak or Unwaxed finishes. For an urban or loft-inspired look, darker woods and black steel brackets create a bold statement. In farmhouse or rustic interiors, bracketed or live edge shelves in Antique Pine or Dark Oak bring warmth and texture. Scandi-style rooms pair well with clean-lined floating or live edge shelves, using light wood and neutral accessories. Choose a shelf that complements and does not competes with your space.

Choosing the right finish and colour

At Chill House, we offer a variety of wood finishes to match different interiors. Natural Oak is light and bright, ideal for contemporary spaces. Dark Oak and Walnut are richer and more dramatic, great for cosy or vintage looks. Teak has a warm, reddish tone, while Tudor Oak offers a deep, traditional character. For rustic charm, Antique Pine adds golden warmth, and if you prefer a raw look, Unwaxed wood gives you that untreated aesthetic. You can also request custom staining or varnishing to better suit your home. Remember that no two pieces of wood are alike, so ordering samples can help ensure your choice is right.

Installation and wall types

Choosing the right fixing method depends on your wall. Plasterboard or drywall needs heavy-duty anchors or toggle bolts. Brick or masonry walls require masonry plugs and screws. For stud walls, it’s best to secure shelves directly into the wooden studs for safety, especially for heavier shelves. If you're dealing with tiles or concrete, specialist tools or a professional installer may be needed. Don’t rush this part - secure installation ensures long-term stability and safety, especially if you’re placing valuable or heavy items on the shelf.

Styling tips for each type of shelf

Styling brings your shelf to life. For floating shelves, use odd numbers and vary heights - mix framed prints, small plants, and candles for a layered yet balanced look. With bracketed shelves, balance function and style - pair stacks of books with ceramics or jars, and leave some negative space to avoid visual clutter. Live edge shelves work best with minimal styling that lets the grain and texture shine - natural elements like clay pots, linen, or soft lighting underneath can help enhance the organic feel. Refresh your shelves seasonally to keep the look interesting.

Final tips before you buy

Before making a decision, measure your wall area and the items you plan to display. Consider how the shelf’s finish and wood tone will interact with your existing furniture. If you’re unsure, start with a sample. Invest in quality materials - well-crafted wood shelves not only last longer but look and feel better in any room. Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of floating shelves, the durability of bracketed ones, or the character of live edge designs, you’ll find a match that fits both your needs and aesthetic. Our handcrafted pieces at Chill House are made to transform your space naturally and beautifully, explore the full range and create a home that reflects your style.