.jpeg)
In the world of interior design, the adage "less is more" holds true, especially when it comes to decorating cabinets, bookshelves, and rooms! I've found myself practicing this more and more as I renovate spaces in our home, and I thought our recent room maker would be the perfect example to show you. Our dining room has always felt "unfinished" in my eyes - functional but lacking in potential. It's a relatively small space as far as square footage, but tall windows and open walls give it a somewhat grand appearance. The open wall also makes it visible from most sightlines throughout the house making it always on display (and if you know me at all you know I'm a sightline girlie), so the lackluster of decor really didn't set well with me.
That's not to say that I didn't love the pieces it did hold, because honestly it has some of the most meaningful decor in our house: our custom dining table hand made with love by my Dad, custom framed "dancing bear" prints from my mom that remind us of our wedding day + Lake Placid, the beautiful bar cart we received as a wedding gift that is constantly overflowing with various gifted bottles of gin, scotch, and wine, and a vintage dining set gifted from the sweetest MIL. I'll be honest though, we rarely eat in there unless we are hosting dinner or a game night, but we do sit for morning coffee when its too cold for the back deck - and so, for all these reasons, it was important to me to find a better way to utilize the space & upgrade it's current aesthetic to blend with the rest of the house. Here are a few examples of how the space existed in our home prior to my project plan...
Before Pics: sightlines, decor- table & prints, always plants, and Blanche the Velcro Frenchie
One thing I wish about myself is that I knew how to use power tools. If I could choose my profession all over I would be an architect, but alas that is not the route I chose so I do what I can with that. I've recently been on a kick of decluttering and emphasizing negative space throughout the house so it feels more open and airy, utilizing pieces that serve function as well as style. I wanted to incorporate that into the dining room as well - and what better way than built-ins! ......Except I don't use power tools, so instead of building, I bought. Behold the beauty of our redesigned dining room...
After Pics: new sight lines, all the plants, ambient lighting, so much storage, and still BVF
My purpose for this blog though is not to just show you our makeover, but to address how to decorate with minimal & meaningful pieces. Let's take a closer look at the end cabinets as some of you may have cabinets, bookshelves, floating shelves, or be blessed with actual built-ins that you're just not sure what to do with. Transforming these functional storage spaces into visually appealing focal points doesn't require an abundance of objects. Instead, the key lies in selecting meaningful and carefully curated items that showcase your personality. My examples are tailored to a dining room theme, but feel free to get creative wherever you find yourself decorating.
1. Start with a Blank Canvas: Declutter and Simplify
Before adding any decor, take a moment to declutter your shelves. Remove unnecessary items and leave space for the objects that truly matter. A clean slate sets the stage for a minimalist masterpiece.
In this first picture I kept EVERYTHING I had in the dining room before the makeover and spread it across the credenza...but you can see that it's just too much.
This is the current situation - it's much more visibly pleasing with just a few relevant items. Peep that vintage Jim Beam owl decanter.
2. Books as Art: Organized Simplicity
Example: Arrange books both vertically and horizontally for visual interest. Consider grouping books by color or size to create a cohesive and pleasing aesthetic. Leave empty spaces to avoid overcrowding.
This sideboard actually came with a damaged drawer, but a little creativity allowed for the perfect space to incorporate some of our favorite recipe books - including the gifted book from our trip to Portugal - and it gives this section of the cabinets a less blocky appearance.
3. Statement Art Pieces: Focal Points of Meaning
Example: Select a few meaningful art pieces or sculptures that resonate with you. Place them strategically on the shelves to draw the eye and add a touch of sophistication. Less is truly more when each piece holds sentimental value.
We thought it would be fun to decorate our cabinets with His + Hers pieces. Again mixing functionality with design this displays my most favorite libations with meaningful objects to me. Pottery from my mom, a framed pic of my Daddio sitting at his masterpiece with an "honorary" art can beside him, crystals, gifts, etc.. along with our functional pieces like wineglasses and placemats...
4. Decorative Boxes and Baskets: Tidy and Tasteful
Example: Introduce decorative boxes or baskets to store small items discreetly. Opt for stylish containers that complement your overall decor theme while keeping clutter out of sight.
5. Personal Mementos: Nostalgia in Moderation
Example: Display a curated selection of personal mementos, such as travel souvenirs, family photos, or heirlooms. Keep it minimal by choosing items that tell a story or hold sentimental value.
His cabinet has a similar set up to keep a balanced appearance, but tailored to his preferences. Libations and sports, group photos, games, and signature signed "collectible" bottles.
6. Plants and Greenery: Natural Elegance
Example: Incorporate a touch of nature with a potted plant or a vase of fresh flowers. The organic elements add life to your shelves without overwhelming the space.
7. Candles and Ambient Lighting: Cozy Minimalism
Example: Place a few carefully chosen candles or LED lights to create a cozy atmosphere. These not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the overall ambiance of the space.
8. Negative Space: Embrace the Empty
Example: Allow for negative space between objects. This not only enhances the minimalist aesthetic but also lets each piece breathe and stand out on its own.
Decorating cabinets and bookshelves with a minimalist approach requires thoughtful curation and a discerning eye. By choosing a few meaningful objects, organizing them thoughtfully, and embracing the beauty of negative space, you can transform these functional storage areas into captivating design statements. Minimalist decor not only promotes visual harmony but also allows each item to shine in its own right. So, whether you're a fan of sleek modernity or cozy nostalgia, let your shelves tell your story with elegance and simplicity. Less clutter, more meaning – that's the magic of minimalist decor.
I hope you enjoyed the sneak peeks into my own home & designs, and that you found this article inspirational enough to try something new in your own space. Until next time Friends, Stay Gold!
Comments