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DIY shelving solutions for every room

An organised home isn’t just visually appealing—it fosters a sense of calm, encourages productivity, and makes everyday life easier.

At the heart of a well-organised home is effective storage, and shelving offers a versatile and cost-effective solution to keep your belongings neat while enhancing your décor.

Whether you’re adding a touch of rustic charm, achieving a minimalist look, or optimising space in smaller rooms, shelving can transform any area of your home.

Below, we’ll delve into specific scenarios where shelving can make a real difference and guide you through creating your own DIY shelving system with detailed instructions, including optional creative enhancements like painting.

Scenarios where shelving makes a difference
Living room elegance:

Shelving in the living room can be both functional and decorative. Use a combination of Wall Shelf Uprights and Shelf Brackets to create custom shelves that suit your space. These shelves can display family photos, artwork, or books, offering a way to personalise your room. For added flair, consider installing staggered shelves for a modern, dynamic effect or aligning them symmetrically for a traditional look.

DIY shelving solutions for every room blog post (1)
Kitchen organisation:

The kitchen often needs innovative storage solutions. Adding shelving can help utilise unused wall space to store cookbooks, jars, and utensils within arm’s reach. Using Red Deal Panelling Boards, you can create a rustic farmhouse aesthetic that complements traditional kitchens. Sturdy brackets like the Shelf U-Brackets ensure your shelves can handle heavier items like ceramic bowls or cookware. Pairing these with hooks underneath the shelves can add additional hanging storage for mugs or utensils.

Bedroom tranquillity:

In bedrooms, shelving helps to maximise limited floor space. Floating shelves made from Chipboard Panels can hold books, plants, and photo frames, decluttering bedside tables and dressers. For a cohesive look, paint your shelves using Frenchic Original Artisan Eco Paint in a calming shade like soft grey or lavender to create a serene environment. Accent the shelves with fairy lights or small plants for a cosy touch.

Garage efficiency:

The garage can quickly become a dumping ground for tools and miscellaneous items. Shelving with heavy-duty Shelf U-Brackets is perfect for creating a robust storage system that can handle tools, paint cans, and outdoor equipment. Install several tiers of shelves to make full use of vertical space, ensuring that everything has its place and is easy to find.

Home office productivity:

A tidy home office is crucial for staying focused and productive. Shelving can provide designated spaces for files, stationery, and tech accessories. Combine Chipboard Panels with minimalist brackets for a clean, modern look that keeps everything within easy reach while freeing up desk space. Painting the shelves in a neutral tone like white or beige using Frenchic Paint can tie the office décor together for a professional finish.

DIY Guide: Installing Custom Shelving
Materials Needed:
Instructions:
Plan your shelves:

Begin by deciding where your shelves will go and their purpose. Are you creating display shelves in the living room or functional storage in the garage? Measure the wall area and decide on the height and spacing of the shelves, considering the size of the items you plan to store.

Mark and install wall uprights:

Use a spirit level to ensure the uprights are perfectly vertical. Mark the wall where the screws will go, drill holes, and insert wall plugs. Securely attach the uprights, which will form the foundation for your shelves.

Attach shelf brackets:

Slot the brackets into the uprights at the desired height. Ensure both brackets for each shelf are at the same level. Use a tape measure to double-check distances to avoid uneven placement.

Prepare and paint the shelves (optional):

Why paint? Painting your shelves can elevate their appearance and make them blend seamlessly into your room’s design. With Frenchic Original Artisan Eco Paint, you can achieve a rich, chalky finish that’s both eco-friendly and odourless. Choose colours that complement your décor—soft neutrals for a serene look, bold tones for a statement piece, or pastel shades for a playful touch.

How to paint:
    • Sand the boards to ensure a smooth surface, removing any rough edges.
    • Apply the first coat of paint evenly, using a brush or roller, and allow it to dry.
    • Add a second coat if needed for a richer colour.
    • Optionally, seal the paint with a protective finish such as Frenchic Tuff Top Coat for added durability, especially if the shelves will endure frequent use.
Install the shelves:

Place the painted or unpainted boards onto the brackets, ensuring they sit securely. For extra safety, attach the boards to the brackets with screws to prevent any movement.

Style and enjoy:

Arrange your shelves thoughtfully, balancing practicality with style. Add decorative accents like vases, candles, or framed photos to make them visually appealing while serving their intended function.

An organised home doesn’t just look better—it functions better too.

Shelving provides a versatile, stylish solution to clutter, offering endless opportunities for customisation and your DIY project can enhance your home’s aesthetic and efficiency.

For any further questions or personalised assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Visit our store in Ballymote, Co. Sligo, send an email to info@mybuildingsupplies.ie, or call 0818 888 000 for expert advice .

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