I was doing some thinking today about altars, and I know the question about what other use for altars has cropped up many times.
I hope to be in the position to buy my own house this year, and when I do, I was wondering what and where to place my altar. I want one outside in a garden, but I also hope to have a smaller indoors one too.
As an altar can take up space, I thought, why not a floating shelf? A quick search and I found some ideas for floating shelves that would be awesome: a tree root design, although this is 3d printed, but did look cool. You can get mushroom shelves, pentagram shelves, all kind of things.
A floating shelf have be placed in a convenient spot, should one be free, and it wold have having to take it down all the time. *Although keeping it dust free and clean is a must*
And then my thoughts went to those that can’t be so open with their altars. Floating shelves with hidden compartments are also available for purchase. It would allow altar items to be hidden underneath when not in use and keep them close at hand. Just how much can be hidden in the shelf would depend on the size of the shelf, but it is something worth investigating.
One important thing to consider with a wall shelf is candle safety - obviously nothing too close to the wall or other items. I would consider a covered lantern or candle holder to keep things safe.