My Favorite Items to Style Your Sarasota Home (Shelves, Desk, Whatever!) Like a Pro Stylist

Scarlett J Designs is a a boutique Sarasota interior design studio delivering elevated interiors, bold brand styling, and curated special events for busy professionals and families who want impact without the overwhelm.

You know that effortlessly styled shelf or desk you see in magazines or Pinterest — the one that just works? It’s not magic (okay, maybe a little), but it is intentional. In this post, I’m spilling exactly how to style your home like a pro — whether it’s your work-from-home desk, a blank entryway, or those shelves that never look quite right. I’m breaking down my favorite go-to pieces, where to use them, and why they make all the difference — with links so you can shop, style, and slay your space with ease. And yes — I shop retail for these pieces. I know that can be controversial in the design world, but when it comes to decor, retail can be stylish, smart, and so satisfying (and who doesn’t love a good childless coffee in-hand HomeGoods run?

Styling Tips:
– 3–5 items per shelf is the sweet spot.
– Use the rule of thirds: group items in odd numbers (3s or 5s) for better visual flow.
– Mix heights, shapes, and textures — one tall item (like a vase), one horizontal (like stacked books), and one sculptural or filler item (like a bowl or object).
– Leave some negative space — your shelf needs to breathe!

See below for my list of favorites!

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1. Vases – I think everyone that knows me knows my favorite, most versatile vase is Crate & Barrel’s Ophelia. I use it for every season, and to style everything and everywhere. I’ve also been really digging their Corda Large White Ceramic Rope Vase for a Mediterranean look. Wanting a little bit of funk? Try this travertine mirror vase from CB2.
2. Pants & Faux Greenery – Vases of course go hand in hand with florals if you so choose. I for one love fresh florals but am also a fan of really good faux ones. Here are my faves – Faux lemon all dayyyy because it’s so summery. Faux stems can be hit or miss but I just love these peonies and ruscus from Pottery Barn. I always love a good olive tree, and there are so many options! I’ve always been a fan of investing in a good one like from Crate and Barrel.
3. Books – No Tom Ford books over here. I love to personalize books to personal interests. On my desk I’ve got a Surf book, Studio McGee’s Art of Design, a Coffee Lovers Book and Italian Chic (because you know, that’s what I am!) My favorite place to look for books is HomeGoods and Anthropologie – they have so many options for so many interests I’ve spent wayyyy too much there lately.
4. Bookends – With a stack of books on a shelf, you need a good bookend! I love bringing I textures like stone and marble here. Currently sweating these Crate travertine ones (spot a theme with me?) or these Williams Sonoma’s that also double as bud vases!
5. Frames – next up, picture frames can be used or dismissed depending on your style, but I try to keep it minimal and stylish. This frame from CB2 is the only one in my office currently. I’ve always loved Pottery Barn’s Bone frames as well.
6. Table Lamps – I was eyeing this marble and brass lamp for ages (ok really like an hour) before I pulled the trigger. Next to the green marble CB2 frame it’s just perfection. Anthropologie also has these fun pup lamp – I have a doodle so of course I’ve been eyeing these. They have matching picture holders which I keep my business cards in!
7. Decorative Bowls, Boxes, & Trays – growing in popularity, you can really do so much with these. From holding your lipgloss on your desk, to hiding a stack of playing cards on your coffee table – I’m obsessed with this CB2 green marble round box, and it can be personalized with initials. Williams Sonoma does a gorgeous Mother of Pearl tray, and Serena & Lily’s Laurel tray is a nice rattan with a spin. Speaking of Serena & Lily, I’d be amiss if I didn’t mention the classic La Jolla in your front entryway to hide shoes or living room blankets (the medium size is usually plenty big) – and take it from me, do NOT buy the cheap HomeGoods knock-offs. They are just not the same. Also digging this Arhaus Onyx bowl to manage my husband’s entry table clutter. 😉
8. Games – my new favorite coffee table addition! I have been absolutely obsessed with this Pottery Barn marble Tic-Tac-Toe board as it’s my 5 year-old’s favorite game, but also knowing a 5 year old, a $100 table game just didn’t make sense, so I found a cheaper-yet-almost-as-beautiful at Crate! Anything larger just feels like clutter.
9. Decorative Objects & Sculptures – You can really get creative here! I love this terrazzo clock from West Elm, a gorgeous ginger jar from Williams Sonoma, these fun Crate Tuscan pears (just added to cart!), or even faux indoor/outdoor balls. You can get personal and playful, and small decorative objectives is how I like to bring in personality and seasonal changes like these Pottery Barn bunnies.
10. Candles – While tapers are all the rage now, they’re also timeless. I just adore a fun, seasonal taper like these from Anthropologie and a classic marble candleholder.

While this is no means an exhaustive list of my favorite decor items, it’s a start! Textiles like extra soft blankets and pillows, mirrors and framed art prints that showcase your personality, and personal touches like heirlooms are also a great way to spice up a space. Just make sure to follow my tips above so decor does not turn into clutter.

Have questions or want help pulling it all together? Let’s chat — I’m always here to help you style with purpose (and a little extra polish).

Don’t forget to view all the items above on my Pinterest page!