How to Decorate Ladder Shelves

Alternate items of varying heights and stick with a color scheme.

Ladder shelves are wooden shelving units that look much like a ladder leaning against a wall. They are an excellent choice to fill vertical space along a wall, especially where hanging shelves are not practical, such as in a rental. The shelves are graduated in size, meaning the lowest shelves are the widest, with a slim top shelf at the top of the ladder. Ladder shelves can be decorated much like any other shelving unit, as long as special consideration is given to the distinctive design of the shelves.

Things You'll Need

• Decorative objects of your choice

Instructions

1. Select items according to a theme to give the shelves a cohesive look. This does not mean you have to choose decor that is all the same, but rather has something in common. For example, you might choose items that all have a bit of green or yellow in them, such as a yellow vase and a book with a green and yellow cover.

2. Place the larger items on the bottom, wider shelves and the smaller items on the top shelves. Locate fragile items out of reach of children or pets. Ladder shelves, by design, usually have shelves that reach almost to the floor.

3. Alternate using items of different heights. For example, place a square framed photo next to a tall, tapered candle. This adds visual interest to the shelves.

4. Add a touch of whimsy along with some practical items. A pretty basket can also be used to hold remote controls for your entertainment unit. An unexpected item, such as a tiny paper umbrella or twisted piece of driftwood, makes for a fun conversation piece.

5. Set your smallest, lightest objects on the top shelf to finish off your decor. Some ladder shelves don't have space to put even slim objects on the top shelf. In that case, try hanging a pretty piece of fabric over the top shelf rather than trying to balance something on it.

Tips & Warnings

• Unless they are bolted to the wall, ladder shelves may not be stable. For that reason, do not place heavy objects on the upper shelves.

References

• Sunset Magazine: Great Ideas for Shelves