So whats the best way to proceed?

The pieces you do select dont have to be expensive, either.

Flea markets and thrift stores are full of gems of all kinds.

Wooden open shelves styled with books, houseplants and small decor items

The Spruce / Michelle Becker

Try stacks of two, four, or even five, if your shelf height allows.

Stand some books verticallyyou can always cap them off with artful bookends, which add both personality and function.

The same rule applies to materialsspread out your metals, glasses, and porcelains.

shelfie with mixed accessories

Goldalamode

Or embrace a retro look by opting for a tangerine or turquoise.

Theres no need to stick to one specific theme or medium, either.

Set a framed black and white photo on one shelf and lean a vibrant abstract on another.

built ins with variety of found objects

D Burns Interiors

Whether youDIY your artworkor support local makers, you cant go wrong!

Consider Item Weight

M Starr Design

Heavier items look best when displayed on bottom shelves.

bookshelves with collected finds

Gray Space Interiors

shelves with variety of books

Mary Patton Design

shelf with varied book design

Ashley Montgomery Design

shelf styling ideas

Kate Marker Interiors

black painted bookshelves

Lauren Zillinger for Laura Metzler Photography

bookshelves with art

Mary Patton Design

shelf with variety of styled items

Hannah Tyler Designs

shelf with baskets

M Starr Design

shelving with vessels

Ashley Montgomery Design