Friday, February 13, 2009

What to Consider when Buying Wood Wall Mount Shelves

After careful consideration, you have finally made the decision to start shopping for new wall mount shelves. However, before you head out the door, we wanted to address some of the things you should consider when buying shelving. Obviously, you want something that looks amazing in the intended room but also shelving that is strong, durable, easy to maintain, and affordable.

For wall mount shelves, one of the first things you want to think about is the material from which the shelving is made. Each material such as wood, plastic, and glass, has its own sets of characteristic, good and bad. Therefore, the material would be based not only on the look you hope to achieve but the objects that will be displayed, the type and color of the objects, size of objects, and even the amount of money you want to invest.

One of the best materials for wall mount shelves is wood. Although you would still have multiple options for wood species, the types of wood most often chosen include walnut, oak, mahogany, teak, and cherry. However, as you look around, if you want quality wall mount shelves made of solid wood, check closely in that some shelves are made from engineered wood or plywood that actually looks like the real deal. Unfortunately, after a year or so, the shelf would fall apart and lose its luster.

Another huge advantage in choosing wall mount shelves made of quality wood is that this material can be cut to any width, length, shape, or style. Because wood is something that carpenters can easily handle, there are many wonderful design options. Therefore, you could end up with a large shelving unit for an oversized family room, a decorative shelf for small kitchen displays, or something very sophisticated and elegant for a formal living or dining room.

While there are many benefits to buying wood wall mount shelves, there are a few disadvantages as well. For instance, depending on the type of wood chosen or the size of the shelf, this could be a heavy item for hanging on the wall. In this case, you would need to make sure special brackets are used so the shelving would not fall or go with a lightweight wood. You will also find that unless wood wall mount shelves have a protective finish, the wood can become damaged or difficult to clean. Therefore, you always want to purchase shelving with a finish or apply clear polyurethane yourself.

One final thought into buying wood wall mount shelves is the material of walls you have. Older homes were made with plaster walls while newer homes have drywall. These two materials handle nails and brackets differently so you want to know the material of your walls so the appropriate shelving method is chosen. Typically, wood wall mount shelves are purchased from retail, department, and home improvement stores but today, you can also purchase a special kit that has everything needed to make your own.

Best Wood for a Wall Mount Shelf

When shopping for wall mount shelf options, you will find a huge variety. There are different sizes, colors, styles, designs, and of course, materials. Today, people still gravitate to a wood wall mount shelf in that it adds warmth and charm to any room. To ensure your shelving will last for years while maintaining its beauty, it is important to choose the best wood. Remember, every wood species has its own characteristics, meaning that some types of wood look better in a formal or informal room than another.

We wanted to show you some of the pros and cons of different woods used for a wall mount shelf so you can better determine what will look best while still being fully functional for your favorite display items. Some types of wood are very common while other species are considered exotic. Again, the key when looking to make or purchase a wall mount shelf of wood is the wood itself in that you want the shelving to look great but provide a strong, durable, and long-lasting solution.

Cherry – This is a popular type of wood used for a wall mount shelf in that the reddish hue looks rich and warm. Additionally, cherry is extremely easy to work with, it takes finishes quite well, and as it ages, it becomes darker.

Mahogany – Another great wall mount shelf wood is mahogany, especially for formal rooms. This is a gorgeous wood with a deep hue that is strong and hard.

Teak – Although you do not see that many shelving units made of teak, this is a magnificent wood species that has beautiful grain qualities, a surface that can be stained, and wood that is easy to cut.

Walnut – The wall mount shelf made from walnut will be very strong and durable but also gorgeous in appearance with its deep tones.

Red Oak – Oak is a popular type of wood for shelves, especially making them since this is an easy species to work with. Oak can also be stained easily and it is a very strong, long-lasting material.

Koa – You might also consider Koa for your wall mount shelf, being the hardest of all wood species but also very lightweight. The shellac finish is simply stunning, making an excellent addition to a dining room, bedroom, or dining room.

Wenge – Although this wood species is a little more challenging to work with because of the potential for splintering, it is also a beautiful choice for a wall mount shelf with its dark, ebony coloring.

Paduak – If you have an informal room or a bedroom where you want something with a little more funk, then a wall mount shelf of Paduak would be ideal. This wood has a unique reddish orange color that is modern and unique.

Purpleheart – The last wood species we wanted to mention for a wall mount shelf is called Purpleheart. The color is purplish and the wood itself very dense and heavy. Unless you are a skilled craftsman, we suggest you purchase shelving of this material already made because it is hard to work with but if you want shelving that can hold heavier, more dramatic pieces, this is the perfect option.

Reading Reviews about Wall Mounted Shelves

Trying to sort through all the different advertisements and marketing campaigns in learning which wall mounted shelves are better than others can be challenging. Instead, you can make the process of shopping for shelving easier simply by taking time to read other consumer’s reviews. The benefit is hearing information, both good and bad, firsthand. This will help you buy quality but without spending a fortune.

As you scour the internet, you will find literally hundreds of reviews pertaining to wall mounted shelves. Although it takes a little bit of time to read, reviews will usually offer you greater insight than what you would get from reading advertisements. Even if you choose something different, you will be making an educated purchase. The following are some actual reviews for wall mounted shelves to show you the types of things people are saying.

Home Depot – A large number of people have written in-depth reviews for shelving that is sold at Home Depot, specifically wall mounted shelves used for stereo equipment. One option in particular is model MSO167, which has a gorgeous black matte finish with laminate shelves. These wall mounted shelves have a contemporary styling that can easily hold up to 63 CDs.

Sanus – Another great option for wall mounted shelves that hold AV equipment comes from Sanus. Model 8783925 comes with two, tempered shelves that are adjustable and designed to hold up to 50 pounds of weight. This particular shelving option is the perfect choice under a flat panel television mounted on the wall.

Heron – For people who love something unique and contemporary, Heron has some of the most wonderful wall mounted shelves. Reviews are always positive and for good reason. Reviews are often written about is the amber shelf made of Plexiglas. The design is so different that it is actually more of a piece of art but these wall mounted shelves are strong and designed to hold up to 10 pounds.

Southern Enterprises – There are a number of positive reviews for the various Southern Enterprises wall mounted shelves but model number MS0159 seems to be one of the more favorable. This three shelf unit can hold up to 25 pounds, comes with metal dividers to help sort displays, it has a large top shelf with six spacing options for the bottom two shelves, and this shelf can hold a whopping 175 CDs.

Amore Designs – The last review we wanted to address for wall mounted shelves is for model LTL087. This decorative shelf known as “Classique” comes in black and made from solid wood. The shelf can hold up to 66 pounds and is available in several different size options.

Tips for Decorating Wall Shelves

Wall shelves of every shape, size, and style are found in homes and office around the globe. Some people have discovered the art of decorating wall shelves while other people seem to struggle in finding the right display balance. Regardless of the type of shelving you have or are thinking of buying, learning the right decorating methods will make a huge difference in the way your home or business looks.

Interestingly, many people believe the best way to decorate wall shelves is by keeping things organized, which is one option. However, as you are about to discover, there are numerous possibilities with many of them being based on your own personal preference.

Depth and Layers – For a sophisticated or formal room, creating depth and layers works best. In this case, wall shelves would include decorative plates, artwork, beautiful trays, and other similar objects placed toward the back for depth. Then to create the appearance of layers, use smaller and shorter display items. This creates an illusion and draws a person to looking through both the depth and layer dynamics.

Simplicity – For people who have a contemporary style, one consisting of clean lines, shelving can be enhanced by keeping simple and uncluttered. The key here is choosing display items that coordinate with your contemporary style and choosing objects that are simple while still making a statement.

Photographs and Artwork – A popular way of decorating wall shelves, regardless of the room décor is by using photographs and artwork. For this, be sure the photos are framed with the right color and texture to complement the room and use various styles of artwork to complete the look. For instance, if you home is modern, then black and white photographs set in black frames coupled with artwork that has pops of vibrant color such as orange or red would be perfect. On the other hand, a home with a traditional style would look best with colored photographs of varying sizes and frames, along with vases, figurines, and other similar items.

Illumination – For a unique way of decorating wall shelves, consider illuminating the various items on display. One option is to have attractive track lighting installed so the illumination comes from above or having small spotlights installed below or to the side depending on the style of shelving so objects are illuminated from below. This is a great decorating option regardless of décor.

Height – To take advantage of rooms with tall ceilings, wall shelves can be installed above cabinets, doorways, fireplaces, and so on that draws the eyes upward. In addition to creating a unique appearance, wall shelving such as this is also a great space saver while allowing you to display some of your favorite collectibles.

Personality – Every person has different ideas of what things should be displayed on wall shelves but we recommend you look for things in the home or purchase items that show off your personality. Simply think of things that match your lifestyle, interest, or passion, and arrange them in whatever way you like best.

Kid’s Corner – If you have smaller children at home, chances are you have a ton of handmade items from school. Using shelves to display your child’s artwork, beautifully framed, crafts, plates, and so on, will look amazing in your child’s room while providing him or her with positive reinforcement with your appreciation for the work done.

Collectibles – Many people collect specific items such as antique thimbles, seashells, buttons, teacups, roosters, and so on, which are great items to place on shelves. By grouping a collection, regardless of what the collection contains, you will be making a powerful statement and point of interest that people will love looking at.

Bold and Big are Better – If you are tired of dusting all the tiny figurines and collectibles currently being displayed on your wall shelves, consider switching the items out for something bold and big. Items such as pottery, vases, artwork, and flower arrangements can transform the appearance of the room while eliminating the annoyance of cleaning.

Perfect Wall Shelving Displays

If you want to enhance the appearance of any room in your home, you can with an inexpensive yet impressive way – wall shelving. To improve not only appearance, but also functionality, shelves need to be organized so objects are displayed in the best way possible. In this article, we have pull together some easy but proven ways in which wall shelving can work for you and your needs.

One option is great for small rooms where large bookshelves simply do not fit. Instead, you could pull out 10 of your favorite book and use shelving as a display. Now, if you want to keep more books out but again without using oversized furniture, then you could always use staggered shelves. The look can actually be dramatic while keeping reading material within reach. We recommend you organize books by the color of the jacket or binding and the outcome will be a definite focal point.

Of course, most people have heard the keeping like objects together is the best way of displaying items on wall shelving, which is true although not mandatory. However, if you like tradition and want a clean area, then keeping like items together works well. The key to success with this is to make sure you have themed, texture, shape, color, and even material items displayed together. For example, if you have African animal figurines, rather than have them sitting about sporadically, you will make a greater impression by placing them together as a collection on the wall shelving.

Now the opposite rule is to step out of the box by mixing and matching items for your wall shelving. This particular look is great no matter the style or décor of room but it needs to be done so it has a clean, uncluttered appearance. In this case, if you have candleholders, rather than keep them all on one side of the shelf, use different shapes, designs, and heights and have them placed wherever you think they look bet. This allows a person’s eyes to rove the wall shelving, keeping a room interesting.

You can also add charm and interest to a room by choosing objects of varying widths and heights. If you have large, oversized wall shelving, then go all out with candleholders, vases, or even pieces of art work. As the different size items are placed, attention is drawn to each piece on its own, rather than an entire collection. For formal rooms to include a dining room or living room, this is a sophisticated method of sprucing up wall shelving.

Finally, use your wall shelving to add shine. Although shiny objects look amazing on glass or mirrored shelves, they also look great on wood and plastic so you have multiple possibilities. These items could be anything from a pewter picture frame to an heirloom trinket box to a silver or gold piece of fruit. If you have a room with dark walls or wood floors, adding a space that shines helps to break things up making the room appear more cheerful.

The Evolution of the Wall Shelf

If you were to look around in homes and offices, it would be easy to spot a wall shelf or two and in a wide range of styles, colors, and styles. While shelving is common around the world, few people have any idea of the history of the wall shelf. For those who appreciate learning about the origin of common items, you will enjoy this article and perhaps look at the way you purchase your next wall shelf a little differently. In fact, for people who want to purchase antiques or replicas for an era period home, understanding the history of the wall shelf could even help in finding the perfect accessory.

In looking back throughout history, there has always been some type of compartment on which everyday items and collectibles were placed but typically, these “shelves” were rustic and not what we would consider an actual wall shelf. Initially, bookshelves were invented as an actual piece of furniture used for books, figurines, vases, and other display items. Obviously, bookshelves continue to be designed, made, and sold around the world but people realized that this particular type of shelving was too large for some homes or rooms.

One of the earlier types of wall shelf locker was from the Russian Jacob Empire. Created by the French maker, George Jacob, this was a shelving unit made from 1780 to 1810. The intricate French style was a favorite on the Russian market with its rich mahogany wood and brass trimmings. Another of the older wall shelf pieces comes from China where beautiful shelves were made. The Chippendale was also made from mahogany with amazing detailing and a mirrored backing. Made between 1930 and 1940, this shelf was made with crown molding that offered a secure way of displaying favorite photographs.

Over the years, inventors realized a simple wall shelf could be made that would work for small areas. Working to come up with a design that would appeal to the public, United States patent number 7028619 was secured for a personal display shelf made with a vertical support surface base. Also with this patent design was a horizontal transparent shelf made so the outside supports would not be seen. The goal with this particular design was to have a wall shelf that was beautiful but also strong enough to hold perfume bottles, as well as heavier collectibles.

Since the time of the first simple yet functional wall shelf, we have seen virtually hundreds of different styles. Today, wall shelving comes in unique designs, various sizes, woods and other materials, hanging options, stains, and other characteristics that make each special. Because shelving is in such high demand, this product can be found in almost any department or retail store. Of course, the wall shelf can also be found online, which creates new opportunities by being able to shop for shelving from around the world.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Wooden Wall Shelves – Decorative and Functional

If you were to look at all the options for wooden wall shelves on the market today, chances are that you would be astounded. In addition to shelving options for the interior of the home, there are also shelves designed specifically for organization, such as shelving used in the garage or greenhouse. When thinking about buying shelving, you want to determine the purpose so you will know the right direction to head – decorative or function.

Today, there are various types of shelves made from wood, glass, metal, plastic, and other materials, as well as multiple colors, embellishments, brackets, and so on. No matter the material, color, style, or size you choose, know the purpose for which it is needed, which will help you make the best purchase possible. As an example, if you are buying shelves for the garage, then you obviously need something strong, durable, capable of holding a lot of weight, meaning function is most important. If choosing wooden wall shelves for a bedroom, living room, or kitchen, then you probably want something that is more decorative and functional.

Wooden wall shelves for the home come in many different design options, depending on the room where the shelves would be installed. Before buying anything, make sure you know where the shelving unit will go. From there, you will know the size needed and the shelving material that would work best. If wood wall shelves will be installed in a bathroom, we suggest you choose laminate, engineered, or a natural species of wood that can withstand higher levels of humidity. If wooden wall shelves are going to be for a child’s room, then you need shelving that is sturdy but also deemed safe.

The exciting news about wooden wall shelves is the vast choices. Remember that if the shelves will be installed inside the home, decide if the shelf itself will be the focal point or if you want shelves that will allow you to display your favorite items, allowing them to be the focal point. The great thing about wooden wall shelves is that not only are there decorative choices, but also shelves that are highly functional. Therefore, you get the style you want but also a space for storage.

The styles of wooden wall shelves found today are amazing. Not only are there new designs, but also new materials. This means as a consumer, you can go with shelving that is strictly functional or decorative, or you could choose wooden wall shelves that offer both benefits. Regardless of what you need, you have a choice of buying something already made, you would have shelving customized, or if you feel creative, you can purchase the necessary materials and make your own.