Shelves have a clear function: to organize, store and display. This simple, yet vital role has made them a must in every household, keeping the place neat and tidy by holding books, clothes, toys or any other items that would otherwise be scattered on the floor. Although usually found in closets, bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens, shelves are useful wherever the extra storage is necessary. They are especially ideal for making the most out of small rooms, which will always benefit from having cleaner, clutter-free floor space. Responding to this crucial storage need and following a strict 'form follows function' approach, traditional shelves are often comprised of minimal, flat horizontal planes attached to a wall –a simple layout that is not particularly meant to draw attention. Hence, people don’t tend to think about shelving ideas beyond storage, and in that sense, the countless design possibilities they offer are often overlooked.
Shelves certainly don’t have to be boring. On the contrary, they are one of the most interesting, functional and versatile elements that can make a difference in any interior. As design continues to evolve hand in hand with new technologies and advanced fabrication methods, these come in various sizes, materials and shapes –even the most complex and unconventional. Thus, shelving systems are able to adopt a variety of uses that range from subtly dividing spaces, to doubling as bold statement pieces that enhance a room’s aesthetics. All it takes is a little ingenuity for these to transform interiors, either by seamlessly blending into a particular architectural style, or by standing out and making a strong impression. To provide inspiration, this article explores unique ways to utilize shelves as design elements, featuring examples from the Architonic catalog.
