Blank walls; Attempts can be made to remedy this with gallery walls, which might! How would you decorate your walls without adding to the multitude of random bits and bobs?
✨Enter, then, the Floating Shelf Display Wall—a sexy, sleek space-saving, bespoke way to take any blank wall and make it into a mini masterpiece.
Best part? You can DIY it in a day, even if you’ve never touched a power tool before.
🛠 Why You Will Love Floating Shelves:
Minimal but impactful
Perfect for small spaces
You totally control layout & vibe
Plus meets aesthetic (display books, plants, art, candles-you name it)
🧰 What You Will Need:
Floating shelf brackets or ready-made floating shelves
Wood-blanks (cut to desired length, pre-cut or)
Drill + level + wall anchors
Stud finder (for safe mount)
Measuring tape + pencil
Sandpaper or sanding block
Paint or wood stain (optional)
Screws + screwdriver
Optional: Mounting Template (Some shelf kits come with one to help align screws easily)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Build a Shelf Wall that belongs in a Magazine
Step-1: Plan the Layout
Sketch your design, or lay the shelves out on the floor. Vary spacing: stack vertically, zigzag across the wall, or go symmetrical for a clean look.
Pro Tip: Mock up the layout on your wall with painter’s tape before drilling!
Step-2: Find the Studs
Use a stud finder to locate secure spots in the wall (especially for heavier items). Mark them with a pencil.
If no studs? Use heavy-duty wall anchors!
Step-3: Prep your Shelves
If you are going to use raw wood, sand the edges for that smooth finish. After that, paint or stain to harmonize with your space (or to make a bold statement).
Step 4: Mount Like a Boss
The drill is going to install the brackets to the wall. Make sure each one is completely straight-crooked shelves ruin the vibe. Slide or screw the wood onto the brackets.
Step 5: Combo and Kills
This is where the magic happens. For example, Books stacked horizontally to create depth. Some small plants or trailing vines. Leaning back framed art. Sculptures or candles for texture. A mix of really tall and nothing.
Leave about a third of each shelf breathing to give that airy, curated look.
Shelf Styling Inspo:
Boho: Woven baskets, mini cacti, neutral tones.
Modern Minimalist: Monochrome books, black frames, geometrical shapes.
Rustic Chic: Mason jars, wooden accents, warm light.
Workspace Creative: Notebooks, photos, miniature storage boxes.
⚡ Quick Tips:
For holding lightweight items in place (if you have kids/pets), use command strips as “locks.”
Install under-shelf LEDs for that extra wow.
Change it up with the seasons for a new feel.
Last Check on Vibe:
Floating bookshelves aren’t just trendy; they’re going to last for years to come. They’re functional. And, at the most, they make your space look like a million bucks without renovation. And the moment you build just one, trust me-you’ll want to do every wall.
📸 Try it & Tag it:
Have you tried this DIY? Let’s see your shelf wall by tagging it #ShelfGlowUp.