Inlay Floating Shelves | Wood & Metal Floating Shelves

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Material contrast, minimalist execution

These mixed-material floating shelves strike the perfect balance between utility and detail. The metal inlay doesn’t just look sleek—it adds surface durability and weight distribution. Whether you’re styling books, stacking dinnerware, or just showing off, the strength is built in. Supported by the Aksel HD bracket system, finished in your choice of hardwood and metal tones, and custom-sized to fit your space like a glove.

When your space calls for a little mix-material magic

Kitchens & Dining Areas: Mixing isn’t just for recipes. It’s for materials, moods, and moments. Inlay shelves bring that same spirit of contrast to the kitchen—the perfect pairing of warm wood and cool metal that ties your space together, from brass fixtures to stainless steel appliances. Strong enough for stacks of plates, pretty enough for your best ceramics. They ground the space, spark conversation, and help the hardest-working room in the house feel beautifully effortless.Home
Offices & Libraries: These shelves are made for creatives who want structure and style. The inlay adds subtle attitude, while the solid wood brings warmth and focus. Books, tools, plants, speakers? Bring it all. This setup says you mean business (but make it art).
Living Rooms & Feature Walls: This is your moment to mix it up. The inlay adds depth without shouting, and turns even the simplest styling into a modern statement. Think sculptural vases, coffee table books, that vintage lamp you love—now grounded by wood and framed by steel. A little contrast = a lot of character.
Commercial Projects: Let the shelf do the selling. Inlay shelves bring that upscale, custom-built look that turns heads (and converts browsers to buyers). Whether you're merchandising ceramics, skincare, or sneakers, the materials speak volumes and bring out the best in your products.

Key features

Integrated Metal Inlay: Adds visual contrast and boosts durability
No Bookends Needed: Objects stay put with ease
Made to Measure: Custom length, depth, thickness, and finishes
Aksel HD Bracket System: Invisible steel support with rock-solid performance

Inlay Floating Shelf FAQs

How much weight can Inlay floating shelves support?

Inlay shelves are built on the Aksel HD bracket system, which supports up to 90 lbs per rod when installed into wall studs. That means most shelves can handle 180 lbs or more with ease. Even with the added metal detail, these shelves deliver the same premium performance as our standard hardwood styles.

Do I need to install Inlay shelves into studs?

Yes. Just like all Aksel shelf systems, Inlay shelves must be secured to structural material—typically wood studs or masonry—for full weight capacity and long-term reliability. Drywall-only installs aren’t recommended.

What wood options are available for Inlay shelves?

Like all Aksel shelves, Inlay shelves are available in all our standard hardwoods—including white oak, walnut, maple, cherry mahogany, and alder—with your choice of finish. The metal top inlay is powder coated and available in 30+ colors, designed to complement or contrast with the wood for a refined, mixed-material look.

Can Inlay shelves be installed on plaster or tile walls?

Yes. As long as you anchor into studs or solid backing behind the surface, you can install Inlay shelves over finished walls—including plaster, tile, or masonry. Just be sure to use the right drill bit and anchor type for your wall material.

What shelf depths are available?

Inlay shelves are made to measure and available in depths from 6" to 14".

6–8 inches: Great for lightweight decor or small styling
9–10 inches: Perfect for books, dishware, or folded towels
11–12 inches: Ideal for functional storage or larger display pieces Note: the curved front edge subtly trims the corners, but the central depth and surface area remain fully usable.

The top metal surface doesn’t affect usable space—it simply adds a sleek, modern finish.

Can I install Inlay shelves over a finished wall?

Absolutely. Inlay shelves are designed to float cleanly over finished surfaces like drywall, tile, or paneling—as long as they’re anchored into studs. The bracket sits flush to the wall, and the shelf locks into place for a seamless, built-in look.

Floating Shelf Know-How

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