Above Bed Shelving - Storage and Style for Modern Bedrooms

Looking to get more out of your bedroom space? Installing shelving above the bed is an excellent way to maximize unused vertical real estate while adding style. Above bed shelving opens up storage possibilities and provides a perfect spot to showcase decor in an eye-catching display.

Let's explore the benefits of above bed shelving and get inspired with ideas to make the most of this modern design trend.

Benefits of Above the Bed Shelving

Installing shelving over the bed comes with many advantages that make it a smart choice for contemporary bedrooms.

Maximizes Vertical Space

The area above the headboard often goes overlooked and underutilized. Shelf units take advantage of this empty wall space, transforming it into a functional display and storage solution. Even small shelving units of just a couple feet provide useful real estate. In a small bedroom or apartment, maximizing every bit of available space is key.

Provides Extra Storage

Bedrooms often suffer from a lack of storage space. Cabinets and dressers only provide so much room. Shelving mounted above the bed is easy access and within arm's reach. Store items you use frequently, like books, alarm clocks, or remotes. The vertical storage also helps free up other areas like nightstands and desktops.

Creates a Focal Point

An eye-catching shelf unit becomes a decorative focal feature. Floating shelves make a statement and add visual interest to plain walls. The shelves display your favorite photos, artwork, travel souvenirs or other accessories. Bookcases create beautiful vignettes showcasing neat rows of books. Collections and keepsakes get a perfect perch up high.

Displays Decor

Above bed shelving provides a personalized gallery to show off cherished belongings and impressive designs. Make bare walls come alive with floating cube shelves or geometric bookcases. Frame and mount artwork at staggered heights for a gallery wall effect. Group together favorite decorative objects for an artistic still life. Spotlight greenery, flowers or ambient lighting.

Choosing Above the Bed Shelves

With so many styles of shelves on the market, deciding on the right unit for your bedroom requires some consideration.

Measure Bed and Wall Space

First, carefully measure the length and height of wall space above your bed frame. This gives you the maximum dimensions for the shelving unit. Factor in space needed for bedding, pillows and sitting up comfortably without bumping your head. Bedrooms with low ceilings require more precise planning.

Consider Style and Design

Floating shelves, ladder shelves and box shelves have an airy, minimalist look. Geometric bookcases and wall-mounted headboards make bold statements. For a cohesive look, choose shelves that coordinate with your existing furniture and bedroom style. Look for finishes and colors that complement your decor.

Select Sturdy Materials

Shelves must be made from quality materials that can handle weight and resist warping or sagging over time. Solid natural woods like oak or maple have inherent strength. Some metal brackets can only hold very light items. If using heavier books or decor, opt for wood, metal or engineered wood shelves.

Allow for Growth

Think about not only your storage needs now but how they may change down the road. Multi-level shelving units with adjustable shelves provide flexibility. Leave room for taller items by spacing shelves generously. Modular units let you add more shelves later. Plan for extra capacity so the shelves remain useful for years to come.

Ideas for Above the Bed Shelving

From bookcases to wall shelves, there are endless options when designing your bedside shelving. Get inspired by these popular ideas.

Bookshelves

Bookshelves lend a scholarly vibe and are ideal for avid readers. Display books alongside framed photos, string lights, and whimsical sculptures. In a shared space, designate separate shelves for each person. Try integrating cabinet doors to conceal items behind closed facades.

Display Shelves

Floating cube shelves create a contemporary grid for showing off decor. Stagger heights and sizes for visual interest. Use acrylic risers to lift items closer to eye level. LED strip lights installed underneath shelves provide a soft glow highlighting treasured pieces.

Wall-Mounted Headboards with Shelves

All-in-one headboard shelf units save space in compact areas. Built-in cubbies, cabinets, and open shelves offer storage and display. Upholstered front panels soften the look and provide padding. Customize with baskets, hooks and other organizational items.

Floating Box Shelves

Horizontal box shelves mounted on brackets create useful platforms within a minimalist, airy aesthetic. The clean-lined rectangular shelves have a streamlined look. Use geometric shapes like cubes and cylinders to complement the boxy shelves.

Styling and Decorating Tips

A well-styled shelving vignette above the bed completes the room's design. Follow these tips for aesthetically arranging your newfound storage space.

Use Complementary Colors

Choose accent pieces that pull out colors already present in your bedding, furniture or artwork. Blue and green glass vases enhance a cool, oceanic color palette. Warm metallics and wood tones reinforce an earthy desert scheme. Monochromatic shelves painted black or white keep the focus on treasured finds.

Incorporate Lighting

Properly illuminating shelved collections helps highlight special touches. Install puck lights or slim LED strips underneath for dramatic backlighting. Table lamps on corners of wider shelves direct light over displays. Opt for bulbs that emit a soft glow to avoid glare.

Add Greenery and Florals

Plants instantly boost shelves with natural beauty and lively energy. Set trailing ivy or delicate ferns in hanging planters suspended from shelf edges. Cluster succulents and air plants in lived-in ceramic pots for an urban jungle. Cut flowers in short vases provide fresh pops of color.

Fill shelves with cherished works of art, framed photos, sculptures and other decorative objects. Display collections in neat rows using risers to stagger heights. Incorporate baskets, boxes and trays to corral smaller items. Add personalized touches like monogrammed pillows or antique books.

Installing above bed shelving opens up a world of possibilities. Make the most of valuable vertical space while adding style to bedrooms. With so many shelving designs and decorating options, create a personalized furniture focal point tailored to your storage needs and design vision.