25 Bright Ideas for Incorporating Open Shelves into Your Space

1. Entryway

From work commutes to errand runs, you're probably on the go a lot. Why waste time getting out the door by dealing with a disorganized entryway every single day?

Think of your front door as a "launching pad." In other words, whatever you need to help make leaving and arriving home easier should be right there for simple access.

If you have a closet to work with, that's great. Otherwise, cubbies or even a utility shelf will work. Make sure your most used shoes, coats, and other accessories are neatly stacked, hung, or put away. You can take those heels you only wear for date nights or random extra scarves back to your bedroom.

Then, set up a space for your personal items, like your purse, keys, sunglasses, and any mail you grab on the way in. You'll know exactly where they are the next time you're running late, and you can add personal touches like greenery or artwork to make your launch pad more aesthetically pleasing.

2. Living Room

Next up is the living room, where you probably spent the bulk of your time with family and friends. This fact means it tends to naturally become the most cluttered room in everyone's home.

If you feel like you're lacking storage, don't forget to utilize vertical space. You can install shelving, for instance, or buy tall open-shelving cabinets that look like built-ins.

Either way, by adding decor pieces, books, or other commonly used items, like speakers and games, you'll infuse the room with more character and dimension while saving floor space.

Don't underestimate the functionality of baskets, either. They're great for holding everything from pet toys to blankets and even magazines or photo albums.

Plus, if you have kids and constantly feel inundated by their toys, say goodbye to the typical storage container solution. Even though it may work for some parents, these containers are still an eyesore and never really leave your line of sight in the living room.

Instead, you can transform an old or thrifted dresser into a toy storage area. Select one that matches your interior design style to keep your space looking clean and uncluttered while allowing your kids to easily grab whatever they want to play with.

3. Bedroom & Closet

Shared or not, the bedroom has a way of collecting clutter like nobody's business. That's why we have to get creative to save space and make our lives easier.

One of the most overlooked areas is right under your bed. You can store anything from hobby items, like art supplies, to seasonal clothing and less frequently worn shoes.

Search for storage containers with wheels under the bed. Or, if your bedframe needs an upgrade, look for one that has drawers!

Then, in your closet, make sure your clothing and accessories are arranged in a way that makes sense.

For example, if you work a corporate job, group all of your business attire, like slacks, blazers, and loafers, in one section to quickly get dressed and go in the morning. The same goes for casual wear, workout attire, and evening wear or pajamas.

Finally, if you have shelving, add labeled bins to store clunkier garments like sweaters and sweatshirts. Any remaining room can be used to hold extra clutter that you clear off horizontal surfaces, like your desk, vanity, or dresser, to make your bedroom feel more light.

4. Bathroom

Last but not least is the dreaded bathroom. This room of the house can become a dumping ground for all sorts of products and beauty tools.

Just like in your living room, you should use any empty wall space to your advantage. Hang up hooks to hold your towels and clothing while you bathe, or use an over-the-door organizer to give your extra towels and robes a home.

Also, if you live with multiple people, it can be helpful to give each family member their own designated cabinet. This will keep everyone's products separate and prevent any from becoming a "junk drawer."

Last but not least, our top tip for keeping your bathroom fresh and organized is to get rid of your personal items on a regular basis. Stop holding onto that old tube of toothpaste that's practically flat or accumulating multiple bottles of face wash.

Rather, go through your products once a month to purge anything that's expired or no longer used. This simple act alone will make a real difference.

Mistake #1: Your lighting and fixtures are outdated.

Look for lighting and modern fixtures that suit a space in size, function, and style. “We wanted the design to reflect a timeless and classic look," says Arterberry of this Austin remodel, "that would stand the test of time and wouldn't feel outdated quickly, while still feeling modern and fresh." This kitchen features neutral tones and refined fixtures that can act as a perfect canvas for more color and accessories as trends take shape.

Mistake #2: Your rugs are too small.

"The home is quintessential Austin with its classic yet contemporary feel," says Arterberry. Her design team decided to use a neutral palette throughout the main level, and the graphic rug enhances the overall aesthetic. Splurge on a generously sized rug for larger areas to tie the room together and create a seamless look. Even the most beautiful rug can look out of place if it doesn't fit properly, giving the impression that you're trying to cut costs. Choose a rug that is large enough to anchor the furniture, ideally allowing the front legs of major pieces to rest on it.

Mistake #3: Your window treatments look cheap.

Thin, plastic blinds or low-quality curtains can detract from the overall look of a room. Invest in quality curtains, blinds, or shades that complement your decor and dress the windows completely.

Mistake #4: Walls are painted in outdated colors.

Millennial pink, tangerine, light yellow, violet, and bright red are out, while more earthy tones are in, like this beautiful statement wall Franklin and team had painted in Shade Grown by Sherwin Williams. It adds a moody vibe that feels rich and modern, albeit farmhouse-inspired.

Mistake #5: Using typographic signs in lieu of artwork.

Rustic typographic signs hint of a farmhouse decor past. "Although once a staple of farmhouse decor, replace typography signs with beautiful artwork that depicts a rural, landscape scene. In addition to being much more chic, these pieces will add a touch of color to an otherwise neutral aesthetic," says Franklin.

Mistake #6: Decor lacks authenticity.

DIY farmhouse decor like the faux-antique window pane with chicken wire or mason jars glued to faux-distressed barn board can scream a little too country. "Instead opt for vintage, antique finds with a rustic flair," says Franklin. Look for a high-quality cream vintage rug; handmade, weathered pottery; and solid wood furniture. "Make a statement and incorporate an authentic, solid wood farmhouse dining table made of exposed wood. These dining tables are typically the star of the space, and will age beautifully over time," adds Franklin.

Mistake #7: Clutter is everywhere.

A well-designed home, no matter what style, feels as good as it looks when the room is clean, comfortable, and clutter-free. Pare down to the basics and then add in warm features, like a rustic console and earthy lamps. For toys and things that always end up where they don't belong, invest in natural baskets and containers that suit your style.

Mistake #8: Your entry gets no love.

First impressions matter. Give your entryway a little love with a wood console table, a modern mirror at eye level, a durable rug, and simple accessories, like a vase with branches, small containers for keys and things, and coffee table books.

Mistake #9: Plants look a little sad or overgrown.

Plants, large and small, can help clean air and bring the outdoors in, ultimately making a room feel alive. Be selective and think about scale. These plants play a subtle yet decorative role in a spare office -- the perfect spot for clear thinking and productivity. Plants to look out for include olive trees, ficus elastica, pilea, snake plants and calathea.

Mistake #10: There is no symmetry and balance.

Multiples like these twin accent chairs add symmetry to a design, making a room feel more balanced. A rug large enough to reach all of the furniture makes a great impact too while adding to the balanced, cozy vibe.

Finally, add personal touches that make your home feel like you (vs. following the latest IG decor playbook). Bring in books you love, art that gives you all the feels, and personal mementos (travel souvenirs, family photos, etc.) to make a house, farmhouse or otherwise, a home.

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The Best Polka Dot Tops

Abercrombie & Fitch Short-Sleeve Tie-Front Top

Not only are polka dots popular, but tie-front tops are also trending! Putting both together has to be the work of a marketing genius who knows we're looking for the least complicated tops to wear during spring.

LOFT Dotted Everyday Relaxed Shirt

If you'll be logging more hours at work and want to participate in this trend, LOFT's relaxed polka dot shirt help you avoid FOMO. It's lightweight and breathable, so you won't have to worry about sweat stains ruining your business casual OOTD.

Old Navy V-Neck Button-Down Crepe Top

Give your crew neck tops a break and reach for Old Navy's take on polka dots. Though it's hard to tell, they're actually navy instead of black so you can almost treat it like a neutral that pairs well with a bright red or butter yellow bag!

MAJORELLE Joy Bodysuit

Have dinner plans with your girls or that sexy guy you bumped into at Trader Joe's? We suggest you wear this off-shoulder polk dot bodysuit that shows the right amount of skin. Think of it as a peek-a-boo piece that gives you the freedom to add your favorite fragrances near your neck without ruining your top.

ELOQUII Satin Bubble Top

Say yes to that party invite you just received because we've found the most breathtaking top for you to wear! This satin bubble top feels as flirty as it looks and is guaranteed to have all eyes on you most of the night.

P.S. Don't be surprised if you get a hot stranger's number while wearing this!

Ashley Stewart Polka Dot Poplin Blouse

If you need another workwear top that aligns with the polka dot trend, reach for Ashley's Stewart's poplin design. It features elasticized cuffs that sit perfectly on the wrist and the overall top has enough stretch in it to keep you comfortable all day.

The Best Mini Polka Dot Dresses

The Reformation x Devon Lee Carlson Cher Dress

In need of a cute, but uncomplicated spring dress? Reach for this mini polka dot dress that can be worn with flats or sneakers. Besides being pretty, it's also made of organic cotton, lyocell, and other fabrics that cut back on waste.

P.S. Of course it's possible to be stylish and sustainable!

Ghospell Ruched Asymmetric Polka Dot Mini Dress

Where are you going to wear this mini dress? The choice is yours, but we have a few solo date ideas geared towards inspiring you to romanticize your life.

If you want our honest opinion, we think it's the perfect dress to wear to an art gallery followed by dinner at your favorite restaurant.

Hollister Crepe Mini Dress

Not a fan of a brown or deep tan polka dot piece? We understand which is why we came prepared with Hollister's mini dress. All you need is a slightly oversized denim jacket, a pair of Adidas Samba, and your favorite clutch.

The Best Midi Polka Dot Dresses

Abercrombie & Fitch Women's Dipped-Waist Midi Dress

Slip into a similar, yet longer version of the above mini dress if you're worried about the back of what you're wearing rising up every time you sit or bend over. You'll be saved from accidental exposures should the wind decide to blow strongly the day you decide to wear something that has a shorter hemline.

ASTR The Label Eirene Polka Dot Midi Dress

Do we spell wedding bells for someone you know? It's only right you wear this polka dot midi dress that has a lace bodice and shoulder straps. It won't take away from the bride's gorgeous gown, but you'll nice and stylish!

Lulu's Black Polka Dot Satin Midi Dress

On the contrary, this contrasting polk dot dress is another great date night option. Though it seems simple, we know that your outfits don't always have to be over-the-top. Just slide into a great pair of black heels and grab a clutch that has a black strap or gold hardware clasp on it!

The Best Maxi Polka Dot Dresses 

Pretty Little Thing White Polka Dot Corseted Dress

We can totally imagine someone taking their proposal pictures in this polka dot corseted dress! It's more structured than most bandeau tops, so your "girls" won't spill out when you bend over slightly to pretend you're fixing your shoe in your pictures!

Princess Polly Marguerite Halter Maxi Dress

You don't need a reason to wear a polka dot maxi dress during vacation, so we won't give you one. The only thing we'll say is you'll be able to adjust the halter so that it doesn't unravel at the worst possible moment.

Reformation Naira Dress

Someone may look at this dress and worry it'll make them look like a "trad wife," but not all traditions are bad. You can pretend you're living in a modern version of Breakfast at Tiffany's whenever you wear it because you are the main character.

The Best Polka Dot Swimsuits

Club L London Sheer Bliss Black Polka Dot Swimsuit

This has retro Betty Boop all over it! From the perfect polka dot print to the organza shoulder ties, we just know you're going to enjoy wearing this. It doesn't matter if you're taking a dip in the ocean or in your own background, we know you'll look amazing in this.

For Love & Lemons Denim Dot One Piece Swimsuit

While you're at it, give this denim polka dot swimsuit a chance. It's equally as gorgeous as the above option and exudes the kind of "vintage" appeal that someone is bound to appreciate.

J. Crew Gemma Ruched Bandeau One-Piece

Take the biggest risk ever and wear this bandeau one-piece swimsuit. The polk dots are slightly bigger, but it works because they give the illusion of a longer torso if you don't have one. Plus, you'll look similar to the 1950s swim Barbie!