We share 8 ideas for making your storage both functional and beautiful. 

Are you a meticulously organised person, with a place for everything and everything in its place? Well, this post is not for you – and actually, we're not sure we can even be friends anymore. This post is for the rest of us, who sometimes struggle to find things we know we have (hello, sticky tape) and who tend to stuff things in already full cupboards for want of a better solution.

We believe storage can be stylish, and T&W's Adam Powell created this practical and pretty shelf to prove it. We're sharing his ideas, and we'd love your thoughts – share your shelves with us on Instagram using the hashtag #twshelfie.



1. Decorate
Sure, most of your shelving will look functional, but don't forget to add a few decorative treats. A single bloom in a small vase upgrades a jars of pens and rubber band ball to vignette status. You could also try a small potted plant, a frame or a small décor piece. Think of these as little hero items – they're your chance to include a colour, shape or material that makes the rest look good.

2. Group your collections
Adam's collection of twine spools was pretty enough to be featured, so it went into an open basket – and of course it absolutely makes sense to keep the same types of items together. Less attractive items like shoes should stay in closed baskets or boxes.

3. Mix it up
This shelf works decoratively because there is a good mix of consistency and variation. Adam played with proportion by placing one of two identical baskets on its end – allowing for easy access and another display opportunity.

4. Stack your books
A stack of books offers many styling opportunities. Adam sorted his collection by size and created some diagonal angle action with two opposing towers. Stacking by colour also works, or if you already have lots of colour, stack the books pages outward for a neutral element.



5. Use a basket 
Large baskets can hide a multitude of sins – shoes in the hallway, magazines in the sitting room and toys, well, everywhere. Find a home for extra cushions and a throw, easily accessible when the weather turns cold.

6. Be practical
Baskets or boxes with handles are perfect for items which might need to be moved around the house – wrapping paper and ribbons, sewing gear, cleaning equipment or craft supplies.

7. Art matters
If you don't want to (or can't) commit to hanging art, propping a piece or two on top of storage shelves lifts the look from functional to considered, with the advantage that you can swap them over whenever the mood takes you. Try overlapping a couple of framed works of different sizes.

8. Save the best for last
After you've included all your functional items, find vessels and décor items which tie in with the tones and textures already there, and create a display to top it all off. Make sure you use a variety of heights and shapes to keep the eye moving, and remember 3 is the magic number for grouping items.

See 25+ more well-styled shelves on Pinterest.