Description and selection of shelves above the table

Shelves are an integral part of any interior. In addition to their practical function, the shelves easily complement the overall design concept or even serve as a spectacular decor, simply transforming a space into an unusual and cozy nest. How to position the shelves above the desk correctly? What to consider when choosing a design?

shelves above the desk
The shelves above the table have a decorative and practical function.

Varieties of shelves

There are four basic principles by which shelf models are classified.

By location

It just so happens that it is the location that determines the design and type of model.

shelves by location type
The shelf model is chosen depending on its placement.

So, depending on the functional purpose of the room, the shelves are placed as follows:

  1. Above the writing desk. Usually we are talking about the shelves above the desk in the student's room. In this case, stationery and other items are placed on the shelf, which can be easily reached without being distracted from the creative or educational process. And despite the maximum functionality of such placement, souvenirs, figurines or vases can also "settle" on the surface. As for decorative details - it all depends on the preferences of the owner.
  2. Directly above the work table. This arrangement is even more practical than the previous one. This is more suitable for a full-fledged workplace.
  3. Above the computer desk. Of course, today there is no need to place a huge number of laser disks, but still there is a need for reliable storage of media, adapters, books and much more. All these little things, vital in the age of technology, "feel" best of all on the shelves above the computer desk.
  4. Above the dining table. This method of placement is primarily relevant for the Provence style. Bottles of oil, jars of spices, as well as small vases with bouquets of wildflowers are snug on the shelves. The atmosphere of home comfort and warmth is guaranteed.

Also, placement above the table is possible in other rooms:

  • Children's room. Perhaps, it is here that hinged shelves are needed like air. A huge number of toys, educational games, books and much more requires an arrangement in a strict order and, as they say, at arm's length.
  • Kitchen space. Kitchen shelves are not only for displaying cute decorative items, but also for storing kitchen utensils. This is especially true when the kitchen is also used as a dining room.
  • Living room. In this space, the obligatory "guests" are audio and video equipment, souvenirs, antiques, as well as photo frames and books. Correctly selected wall shelves and a competent arrangement of "guests" will eloquently tell about the owner's taste and preferences.
  • Bedroom. Usually, in this room, shelves are used to arrange vases, photo frames and souvenirs. And also for placing devices and objects in such a way that they can be easily reached. Therefore, the shelves are fixed either at the head of the bed or above the dressing table.

An interesting nuance: both in the living room and in the office, empty wall space can be occupied with shelves.By choosing the right design, you will not only increase the functionality of the room, but also decorate it in an unusual way.

use of shelves
Shelves are used both in the office and in the living space.

Construction types

The design of the shelves largely depends on the shape, since not all design options "get along" with the design features of the models.

types of shelves
By design, the shelves are divided into several types.

Consoles

Such shelves are distinguished by a minimalist design, and at the same time maximum usability and functionality. Structural elements are often made of metal and allow you to modify the model.

cantilever shelves above the table
Console shelves are usually minimalist.

Multi-tiered

With their help, it turns out to make the most rational use of space.This is the best storage system, especially if the shelf does not perform a decorative, but a very specific practical function.

tiered shelves above the table
A lot of useful things can be placed on a multi-tiered structure.

With side walls

This model can be safely called a "distant relative" of the niche. Ideal for storing books that do not fall off the shelf thanks to the sidewalls. By the way, at your discretion, the sidewall can be on one side, or maybe on two.

shelf with side panels
The shelf with side walls is very convenient for storing books.

With back wall

This "modification" option does not in any way affect the functionality of the shelf, but it significantly changes the appearance of the wall to which such a shelf is attached.

shelves with back wall
Shelves with a back wall have an additional panel on the back.

Universal shelves

This is a great option, as they say, for all times. The construction is very durable, has the correct geometric shape, and can be used for a variety of purposes.

universal shelf above the table
Universal shelves are simple and reliable.

By installation method

The main purpose of any shelf is to accommodate small and medium-sized items.

placing things on the shelves
Items of different sizes can be placed on the shelves.

And in order for them to harmoniously fit into the interior, they can be installed in different ways:

Wall structures

As the name suggests, they are attached to the wall. The most common way of placing all kinds of shelf models. In this case, the wall area is used as efficiently as possible. Such designs have a lot of advantages, and perhaps the only thing that can be attributed to the "minuses" is that they usually look "without a twist".

wall shelves above the table
Wall shelves are attached directly to the wall.

Suspended

These models, unlike the previous ones, are not often found in classic interiors. But for a loft or high-tech style, this method of attaching shelves is almost a prerequisite. The shelves are mounted to the ceiling or wall using special hanging devices. The only caveat: this mounting method is not suitable for all rooms. And the rest of the hanging shelves are solid advantages.

hanging shelves
Hanging shelves are often found in loft or high-tech style.

Corner

Thanks to such shelves, it is possible to use the inner corner space in the room as efficiently as possible. Indeed, often the corner remains free and it often looks like something incomplete. If you place a backlit plasterboard model in the corner, then you will even be able to visually expand the room.

corner shelves above the computer desk
Corner shelves can visually expand the space.

Corner structures have a lot of advantages, and of the shortcomings, we note only some complexity of manufacturing, because you are unlikely to find a ready-made model that would fully meet the parameters you need.

corner shelves above the table
Corner structures allow rational use of space in the room.

Superstructure table

The main advantage of such a model is that it is easy to move from place to place, since it is a single whole. And if you decide to move the table, you don't have to re-mount the shelves against the wall.Well, the disadvantages include the impossibility of changing the configuration, or adjusting the height and width of the shelves in relation to the table.

table with superstructure
A table with a superstructure of shelves is a single structure.

There are also combined models. For example, recently you can find more and more suspended-wall structures, thanks to which an unusual interior design of a room is created.

combined shelves above the table
Combined models combine suspended and wall structures.

By the way, there are also exclusively decorative shelves that serve as decoration in themselves, without requiring filling their own surfaces. Such models are made of different materials (wood, glass, metal) and, as a rule, have an interesting shape.

decorative shelves above the table
Decorative shelves have an interesting design and are a decoration in themselves.

Regardless of the interior of the room or the functional purpose, shelves are essential. With their help, you will effectively complement the design, make the storage system more functional, and also be able to effectively display numerous souvenirs, cups of sporting achievements or a rich library.

Video: original ideas for wall shelves

Examples of the design of shelves above the tables in the photo

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