How to style shelves and display homewares like an interior designer

Personal style is something that many interior design aficionados are determined to refine and elevate. Our homes are a reflection of ourselves, and putting our best foot forward requires a little finesse and thought.

Katie Uther, founder of Katie Uther Design, has worked in Sydney, Paris and London, and her unique approach to design is a blend of European style with an Australian sensibility. Naturally, she has some sage advice for those who wish to create curated interior displays.

Katie says you must think about the space you are setting up like the composition of a painting. “Placing objects central to the frame or vignette is boring, so think to place, layer and group things off-centre,” says Katie. “Play with contrasting scale, shape and texture until you find balance. Symmetry will give a formal feel while asymmetry provides a more whimsical or informal impression.”

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Coffee tables

Books, bowls and decorative objects are the key to a successful coffee table, says Katie. “I suggest a few coffee table books grouped and layered with a tray and a decorative bowl. If the bowl feels empty, fill it with something like a chain of beads, unshelled walnuts or pine cones, depending on the room's look and feel”.

Open shelving

According to Katie, various heights, textures and colours will make open shelving feel purposeful and elegant. “Turn favourite book cover to face out and group similar sized books together with a decorative bookend, then add sculptural elements such as decorative vases or ceramics,” says Katie. “Play with textures by placing a lacquered box on a stack of larger, horizontally stacked books. Adding a trailing or sculptural plant will give the bookshelf some life and an informal feel. If you find the spine of any book looks too colourful, turn their spines to the back of the shelf to create a more neutral appearance.”

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Benches, credenzas and hall tables

For tables and credenzas be sure to include practical elements, explains Katie. “Include a table lamp, dish for keys and perhaps a sculptural vase – which is stylish even without flowers,” says Katie. “For bench space, such as in the kitchen, place an urn-like vase with large foliage on a clear island unit. If the kitchen is slick and minimal add contrast with a textural ceramic vessel.”

Read more decoration advice on ArchiPro.