Floating Shelf Buying Guide: Sizes, Fixings & Styling

Floating Shelf Buying Guide: Sizes, Fixings & Styling

Floating shelves are one of the simplest ways to add storage, character and warmth to a room — especially when they’re made from reclaimed wood. Whether you’re looking to fill an empty wall, create a practical workspace, or add a bit of rustic charm to your home, choosing the right shelf makes all the difference.

Here’s a clear, practical guide to help you pick the perfect floating shelf for your space.


Choosing the Right Size

Before anything else, think about where the shelf will go and what you’ll use it for.

Length

Common lengths range from 40cm to 140cm, but custom sizing is ideal if you’re working with alcoves, tight corners or specific layouts. Shorter shelves work well for:

  • small bathrooms

  • bedside storage

  • narrow hallways

Longer shelves are great for:

  • living rooms

  • kitchens

  • above desks

  • feature walls

Depth

Depth affects both practicality and appearance:

  • 15–18cm — perfect for small items, candles, plants, spices

  • 20–22cm — ideal for books, frames, everyday storage

  • 25–30cm — great for larger displays or kitchenware

If you’re unsure, 20cm is the most versatile depth for most homes.

Thickness

Reclaimed wood shelves usually look best at 3–4cm thick, giving a solid, substantial feel without looking bulky.


Choosing the Right Fixings

A floating shelf is only as good as the fixings behind it. Here’s what to consider:

Hidden Brackets

These create the true “floating” look — no visible supports. They’re strong, clean and ideal for most walls.

Heavy‑Duty Rod Brackets

Perfect for deeper or longer shelves, especially if you plan to store books or heavier items.

Wall Type Matters

Your wall will determine the fixings you need:

  • Solid brick walls — strongest and easiest for floating shelves

  • Stud/plasterboard walls — still possible, but require the right anchors or hitting studs

  • Dot‑and‑dab walls — need longer fixings to reach the solid wall behind

If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to advise based on your wall type.


Styling Your Floating Shelf

Floating shelves are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:

Minimal & Clean

A few well‑chosen items — a plant, a candle, a framed print. Perfect for hallways, bedrooms or calm spaces.

Practical & Organised

Use shelves in kitchens or offices for everyday items you want within reach.

Layered & Lived‑In

Mix books, ceramics, plants and personal pieces for a warm, homely feel.

Symmetrical or Staggered

Two or three shelves stacked evenly look tidy and modern. Staggered shelves feel more relaxed and creative.


Why Reclaimed Wood Works So Well

Reclaimed timber brings warmth and character that mass‑produced shelves can’t match. The grain, knots and natural markings give each shelf its own personality — and because I hand‑select every board, the final piece always feels intentional and unique.


Final Thoughts

A floating shelf might be a simple piece of furniture, but choosing the right size, depth and fixings makes a huge difference to how it looks and performs. Whether you’re styling a small corner or creating a full feature wall, reclaimed wood shelves add warmth, texture and timeless character to any room.

If you’d like a made‑to‑measure shelf crafted from hand‑selected reclaimed timber, I’d be happy to build one just for you.

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