So, I’ve been diving into some home renovations lately, and one thing I’ve been obsessed with is floating shelves. If you’re like me, you probably look at those blank walls in your home and think, “What do I do with this space?”
That’s when I discovered floating shelves—and honestly, they’ve been a game changer.
And no, they’re not just for holding your high school trophies (although, no judgment if you want to show those off too!).
I gotta say, after adding a few floating shelves around the house, my space feels so much more organized and put together.
I was honestly surprised by how much character they added to my walls—especially when I started stacking up little plants, candles, and my favorite books. It’s like, suddenly, my living room went from “meh” to “wow” without much effort.
Plus, I love how they give me the perfect excuse to finally display all the cool stuff I’ve been hoarding. I definitely recommend giving them a shot if you're looking to spruce up your space!
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Best Wood Choices for Floating Shelves
Before we get into these awesome floating shelves, let’s talk wood. The type of wood you pick for your floating shelves can totally change the vibe of your room. Here’s what I recommend:
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1. Oak
Sturdy and timeless, oak is great for any style and won’t let you down.
2. Mahogany
Rich and dark, mahogany adds a classy, sophisticated touch—perfect for a more traditional setup.
3. Birch
An affordable option that still looks great, birch’s light color and straight grain make it perfect for a variety of designs.
4. Maple
With its smooth texture, maple is versatile and takes stains really well, making it adaptable to various finishes.
5. Pine
If you're on a budget but still want something good-looking, pine’s a solid choice—it’s light and easy to customize with paint or stain.
6. Cherry
Cherry wood adds warmth and a nice reddish hue, giving your space a cozy, welcoming feel.
7. Walnut
The deep color and fine texture of walnut make it perfect for mixing modern and classic looks.
If you ask me, oak is my top pick. It’s timeless and strong—plus, it works with so many different styles. A bit pricier? Yeah, but totally worth it for the long haul.
If you’re ready to add some floating shelves to your space, I’ve rounded up the best designs for 2025.
Top 23 Floating Shelf Trends to Watch in 2025
1. Natural Elegance Shelf
A wood shelf above your sink or countertop is a total game-changer. It adds a natural touch and is perfect for holding plants, jars, or cute decorative pieces.
2. Marble and Brass Magic
Want to bring some glam into the mix? Marble-and-brass floating shelves are just the ticket. They look gorgeous and can fit into everything from modern kitchens to more traditional ones.
3. Antique Charm
Reclaimed or antique wood floating shelves add so much character. The unique grains and knots make them a conversation starter every time!
4. Floating Shelves With Sides
If you’re the DIY type, why not create your own floating shelf? You can easily make one using some wood planks and brackets. Sand, stain, and you’re good to go.
5. Go for a Floating Cubby
Why settle for basic shelves when you could install a floating cubby instead? It’s a great way to keep things organized and add some stylish storage.
6. Perfect Triangle Shelves
Triangle corner shelves are perfect for tight spaces, and they’re a cool way to display your decor—or shoes!
7. Books, Books, Books
Want to show off your book collection? Narrow shelves above a dresser or credenza are perfect for showcasing those coffee table books or photos.
8. Slim and Sleek
Sometimes less is more. Thin floating shelves let your decorative items shine while staying sleek and simple.
9. Match Your Cabinets
Match your floating shelves with your existing cabinets for a cohesive look. It ties the whole space together without it feeling too busy.
10. Blend In for a Subtle Look
If you’re working with a smaller space, opt for floating shelves that blend into the background. Light neutral tones will help them disappear into the walls and keep things looking spacious. It’s all about blending with your walls!
11. Shadowbox for Book Lovers
Shadowbox shelves store books inside and display decor on top—talk about two birds with one stone!
12. Negative Space Vibes
Sometimes, less is more! If you want to add some drama to your shelves, leave a little gap between them. It gives the space a cool, airy feel.
13. Show Off Your Shoes
Why not show off your favorite sneakers or heels with some floating shelves? You can turn your shoes into little works of art while keeping your space organized.
RELATED: 23 Space-saving Shoe Storage Ideas To Keep Your Small Home Organized And Clutter-Free
14. Caffeine Corner Shelf
If coffee is your thing (and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good cup?), a floating shelf near your coffee station is perfect for storing mugs, beans, or accessories. Maybe even add a little plant for some extra zen. Bonus points if you add hooks for extra storage!
15. Makeup Shelf
In tight spaces, small floating shelves near the mirror are perfect for holding makeup or skincare products without crowding the bathroom counter.
16. Pantry Shelves
Have a small pantry? Add a floating shelf or two to hold your canned goods or kitchen gadgets. You’ll be surprised how much space it opens up.
17. Long and Lean
Got a long wall? Fill up a white brick wall with long floating shelves. Use them to display books, photos, and other sentimental decor.
18. Cozy Shelf Ladder
Add a cozy touch to your living room with white floating shelves and a ladder for blankets. It’s practical and cute!
19. Gallery Wall with a Twist
Who needs traditional picture frames when you can use floating shelves to display your art? It gives a gallery-wall feel without the fuss of hanging everything.
20. Think Outside the Box
Want something different? Go for a floating shadow box. It’s a bold choice that creates extra storage and looks awesome.
21. Floating Closet Shelves
In your closet and running out of space? Floating acrylic shelves are perfect for displaying shoes, handbags, or accessories. It’s like shopping every time you walk in!
22. Craft Station Shelves
Set up a floating shelf above your craft station for supplies, plants, and some fun inspiration!
23. Floating Storage Shelves
Floating shelves are a simple way to keep things neat and easy to grab. No more digging through clutter—everything is right there when you need it!
Where to Buy Floating Shelves
When you’re on the hunt for floating shelves, there are definitely a few places you can check out.
Finding the right ones isn’t just about picking whatever’s on sale—it’s about getting the perfect mix of style, quality, and price that fits your vibe.
If you're someone who likes to see things up close before buying, local home improvement stores like Home Depot is a solid option. You can even pop into your neighborhood hardware store, where they usually have a variety of styles to browse, and the staff can help you out.
For those of you who prefer to shop from your couch, online stores like Amazon, Wayfair, and Etsy offer tons of options—everything from sleek black shelves to trendy clear ones. You can easily compare prices and read reviews, making it a super convenient option.
And if you’re after something a bit more unique, checking out a local carpentry shop might be the way to go. They can build floating shelves that are completely tailored to your space, which is perfect if you’ve got a specific design in mind.
There you have it! Floating shelves that’ll make your space look even more amazing! Whether you’re decorating a kitchen, living room, or bedroom, these shelves can bring both function and beauty to any room. So, what do you think? Ready to add a floating shelf (or two) to your home?
Best Brackets for Floating Shelves
1. L-Shaped Brackets
These are super sturdy and easy to install, plus they’re great for hiding inside the shelf for a clean look.
2. Concealed Floating Shelf Brackets
Perfect if you want that “floating” effect! These brackets hide inside the shelf so it looks like the shelf is just floating.
3. Cantilever Brackets
If your shelf is long or heavy, these guys extend from the wall and give you extra support without the bulk.
4. Shelf Support Brackets
These are simple, strong, and perfect for holding up your shelves without being too visible.
5. Heavy-Duty Brackets
If you’re going for a big, sturdy shelf, these brackets won’t let you down. They can handle some serious weight.
Best Anchors for Floating Shelves
1. Toggle Bolts
Great for heavy shelves! They spread the weight across the wall, so you don’t have to worry about them falling.
2. Self-Drilling Anchors
These are super easy to install—just use a hammer and screwdriver, and you’re good to go!
3. Plastic Wall Anchors
If you’ve got lighter shelves, these are perfect. They’re simple and do the job without any fuss.
4. Molly Bolts
Great for hanging stuff on drywall! They expand behind the wall for a secure grip.
Let me know your favorite floating shelf style or how you’re planning to use them in your space!
Top 23 Floating Shelf Trends to Watch in 2025