Picture ledges and floating shelves offer versatile solutions for decorating without occupying floor space. While traditionally mounted at eye level or around four to five feet from the floor, recent design trends suggest alternative placements that can add flair to any room.
The Unconventional Placement in Action
In a house tour featuring Sarah Campbell and her fiancé Nick’s apartment in Los Angeles, California, an unexpected picture ledge placement caught attention. Despite the prevailing norms, they mounted their photo ledge on a large, vacant wall away from eye level. Campbell, a graphic designer, considers their home a personal creative project that reflects her passions.
Creating an Artistic Showcase
Facing the challenge of filling a vast wall space, Campbell initially sought an oversized artwork. However, the quest proved arduous and costly. Opting for a different approach, they envisioned the wall as an ever-changing art gallery. Thus, the idea of a floating shelf emerged, positioned remarkably low, merely inches above the ground.
Inspiration and Implementation
Campbell drew inspiration from a photo on Apartment Therapy, fueling her search for a 16-foot floating shelf. Faced with the scarcity of such shelves, they embarked on a DIY project. Using two eight-foot white boards from The Home Depot and six corner brackets, they fashioned a custom ledge. To ensure visual cohesion, the brackets were painted to match the wall color seamlessly. Remarkably, the entire project was completed for less than $100.
Dynamic Display and Flexibility
Since its installation, the ledge has become a dynamic focal point, adorned with various smaller pieces and a painting. Its versatility allows the couple to rotate artworks at will, ensuring a fresh ambiance. The unconventional placement immediately grabs attention upon entering their space, showcasing their ingenuity and design sensibility.
