Can you put the shelf in the living room?

The Living Room

The living room is an important space in any home. It’s usually the room where family and friends gather to relax, talk, and spend time together. When designing and arranging a living room, there are some key factors to consider in order to create a functional and inviting space.

One consideration is where to place any shelving or storage units in the living room. Shelves can be useful for displaying photos, books, collectibles and more. However, the placement of shelves matters. You want to make sure they are positioned in places that make sense within the natural flow and layout of the room.

Some questions to ask when deciding where to put shelves in the living room include:

• Is there an empty wall or space that could accommodate a shelf?
• Can the shelf go above the TV, media console or fireplace to display decorative items without obstructing views or functionality?
• Will the shelf take up valuable floor space if placed vertically?
• Does the shelf make sense next to other furniture like couches or chairs where items can be easily accessed?
• Will the shelf placement cause bottlenecking or block primary walking paths?

By carefully considering the existing furniture layout, traffic flow, and available wall space, you can determine the best spots to introduce shelving. The goal is to find places where the shelves can be useful without making the space feel cluttered or crowded.

Measuring the Living Room

Once you’ve identified some potential spots for shelving in the living room, the next step is to take measurements. Getting accurate dimensions of the living room itself and the wall spaces being considered will allow you to choose shelves that fit well within the parameters.

Here are some tips for measuring a living room in preparation for adding shelves:

– Use a tape measure to measure the room itself from wall to wall. This will give you an understanding of overall size and space.

– For wall spaces, measure width and height. Make sure there is enough room vertically for the shelf unit.

– Look out for any obstacles like windows, doors or architectural details that might impact placement. Measure around them.

– If placing a shelf around the TV, measure the exact height and width of the TV and any media components. Leave enough space to access ports.

– For freestanding shelves, measure area rugs and the distance between furniture pieces to ensure proper clearance.

– Note ceiling height and protruding ceiling lights that could limit shelf height.

Having all the measurements on hand will make it easier to choose shelves that make sense for the proportions of the living room. Allow extra time to carefully measure and record the space. Rounded measurements can lead to shelves that are too small or too large.

Choosing the Right Shelf

Once measurements are taken, it’s time to consider the available options and choose the right shelf for your living room. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Function – Will the shelf be used for storage, display or both? Make sure to choose a shelf with enough space and features for its intended purpose.
• Size – Choose a size based on measurements, making sure the shelf will fit the space without overwhelming it.
• Weight capacity – Check weight limits and choose an option sturdy enough for items being displayed.
• Style – Choose a shelf that aligns with your living room’s existing aesthetic – color, material, finish, etc.
• Wall mounting – For wall shelves, consider mounting hardware needed and if professional installation is preferred.
• Budget – Shelves come in a wide range of prices. Have a budget in mind and choose accordingly.

Knowing your needs, measurements, and options will help narrow down the shelves that could work best. If possible, see physical shelf samples in person at a store. Virtual shopping makes it harder to envision scale and fit.

Preparing the Location

Before mounting and installing the shelf, some preparation may be needed at the location. Taking time to properly prepare will help ensure the shelf looks and functions as expected.

For wall mounted shelves, make sure the wall space is clear of any photos, mirrors, artwork etc. Remove these and patch any holes or nails. Give the wall area a fresh coat of paint if it’s scuffed or marked up. This gives you a smooth blank canvas for installation.

Next, locate wall studs using a stud finder. Mark their locations with tape or pencil. Most shelves will need to be anchored into studs for sufficient support. Ensure you have enough to align with shelf brackets or mounting points.

Finally, round up any tools, hardware, and materials needed for installation. For wall shelves, you’ll need stud finding supplies, level, drill, screwdrivers, fasteners, and possibly a helper. Make sure everything is easily accessible before starting.

Taking this time to prep makes the actual installation process go much more smoothly.

Installing and Styling the Shelf

Once prep work is complete, it’s go time! Follow all instructions provided with the shelf for proper mounting and installation. Take it slowly and double check alignment. Having a helper is very useful during the installation process.

Here are some general tips for seamlessly installing and styling shelves in living rooms:

• Drill pilot holes in studs before attaching shelf brackets or standards. This prevents wood splitting.
• Double check leveling along the way. Use shims if needed to make sure the shelf is even.
• Consider temporarily pinning or supporting shelves on brackets before loading down with items.
• Anchor and secure shelving into as many studs possible for maximum support.
• Place larger decor items like vases towards the center of shelves to disperse weight.
• Style shelves with a mix of heights, textures, and colors for visual interest.
• Keep valuable breakables or heirlooms towards the back of shelves.
• Start with larger statement pieces, then fill in with smaller accessories.
• Lightly dust shelves and contents regularly to prevent a cluttered look over time.

Take time styling and arranging the shelf after installing. Step back periodically to check that items are balanced and the shelf looks intentional.

Safety Tips

When positioning shelves in living rooms, there are some key safety tips to keep in mind:

• Do not overload shelves. Abide by all weight limits and constraints.
• Place shelves out of reach of pets and young children to prevent accidents.
• Avoid placing heavy objects like books or cinderblocks on high shelves.
• Use earthquake wax, putty, or velcro tabs to secure breakables in earthquake prone areas.
• Check for tip over hazards and anchor freestanding shelves to studs as needed.
• Do not stack items too close to shelf edges.
• Only climb or use step stools to reach high shelves when necessary.
• Check shelves regularly for damage or instability issues.
• Keep flammable, hazardous, or poisonous items out of reach.

Following basic precautions will help reduce chances of injury or damage. Safety should always come first when designing living room shelves.

Conclusion

Adding shelving to a living room requires careful thought, measurement, preparation, and styling. But once installed, it can make a stylish and functional addition to any living space. Just be sure to:

• Determine ideal placement based on room layout.
• Take detailed size measurements beforehand.
• Select the right shelf based on function and aesthetics.
• Prep the installation location appropriately.
• Follow all included hardware and mounting instructions.
• Style the shelf with care for balanced visual appeal.
• Maintain safety by avoiding tip-over hazards and overload.

With attention to detail during planning and installation, shelves make for a practical accent that also enhances the living room’s design. Just be sure it’s placed appropriately and styled attractively for best results. The living room shelf can become a focal point and conversation piece for years to come!