Decorating Dilemmas is a weekly column in which our stylists answer your design questions, so you can tackle your home decorating project with complete confidence.
Hi,
I would greatly appreciate your help with my kitchen wall on which I recently installed three four-foot white cafe shelves.
I was planning on putting a large chalkboard behind the kitchen cart/table, but decided to purchase the cafe shelves to give us more storage.
My question is, what do you think of the shelves with this table/cart? Something doesn’t seem right and I can’t figure out what it is.
Are they too big for the wall, should I only do two shelves or should I put something else behind the table, like the chalkboard or some art? If they stay where they are, I think they should probably be painted as the whites don’t match.
My second question is, how can I style them so they better? Any help you have on accessories, plates, etc. for the shelves and table would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you so much for your help.
Sally
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Dear Sally:
We agree – something is just not right. First, you might want to paint the wall behind a feature color. Something bright and fun or make it a chalk board.
Next, you need to paint the shelves the same color as the cart.
As far as decorating the shelves, add some bright accent pieces – maybe a vase with a great design.
Stack the dishes at least three-quarters the height of the space. Add a collection of cookbooks standing upright.
Make sure you use pieces that are large enough to make a statement.
You can also soften the look with a great plant.
We hope these suggestions help you make your shelving corner a great little space!
Happy Decorating
The Style Studio Team
Do you have a decorating dilemma? Send us your own questions here.
Nicole
I also think that the table needs to be a bit larger – the shelves appear “top-heavy” in the picture.