Bookshelves are an essential part of any home, providing both storage and decoration. But how do you make your bookshelf stand out from the rest? As far as home decor goes, styling bookshelves can be tough, but perhaps part of the problem is that we overcomplicate it, simply because it's such a focal point in a room. With a few simple tips, you can turn an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish design statement. Just remember, the most important thing when styling shelves is that they should reflect your unique taste and style. Choose items that make you happy and that you love looking at. Now, let’s break down how to style your bookshelf like a pro:
Tidy and Declutter
First and foremost, start by tidying up your shelf. If your bookshelves consist of miscellaneous items, papers, and knick-knacks – either Marie Kondo your space or make sure everything has its place. Once everything is organized and neat – you can begin.
Select Your Pieces
The next step is to select items that will bring balance and texture to the shelf. Pieces like vases, sculptures, or other decorative objects will help to add visual interest. For shelves with tight spaces, choose small objects like candles or bookends that will fill in any glaring gaps, keeping in mind that some white space can be good. Additionally, think about which photographs or pieces of artwork you will want to add to give it your unique, inviting, and personalised touch.
Colour & Metallic Accents
Next, decide on a colour scheme for the shelf. Choose colours that match the overall theme of the room as well as colours that will complement each other. This can be done by selecting various shades from one colour palette or by mixing different colours together as well. When choosing colours for bookshelves, think about how those colours will look against the backdrop of the walls in your home. Keep in mind, that different groupings can have different colour schemes as long as they work well together and keep the overall cohesiveness; try grouping similar objects together for added impact.
You can mix metals but just be sure to stick to all warm or all cold. By this we mean, warm tones like gold, brass, copper or rose gold, or all cold tones such as silver and nickel. If your room has a lot of metal accents, then you might want to consider using just one or two pieces on your shelves to avoid an overly "matchy" look.
Large White Flying Marble Disc and Stand
Groupings
Organize the objects on your shelf in order of size and importance. Place larger items towards the back and smaller items towards the front so that all objects are visible but not overcrowded; spacing is important because you want to create visual interest over clutter.
Group different items together by colour or theme for a polished look. For example, if you have several cookbooks – group them together on one shelf; if you have several novels – group them together as well. While we are creating groupings, we can still vary heights and depths. Lay your books both vertically and horizontally [more on this later]. Put some decorative pieces closer to the back and some in front. This will help create interest and cohesion and give each section of the shelf its own unique look and feel. Plus, it'll make it easier for you to find things in the future.
Set of Black Tassel Candles
Organize Your Books by Color and Height
When styling your bookshelf, don’t just throw all your books on the shelf haphazardly. Instead, thoughtfully arrange books in sections based on colour and height for maximum impact. This will create a visually appealing effect that is sure to draw the eye. You can also use this technique to highlight certain titles that you want to draw attention to.
For example, if you have a favourite book or series of books, be sure to place them front and centre so they stand out from the rest. Mix-up book placement: try stacking your extra books horizontally to use them as a pedestal for other display items. For those going the traditional vertical way, consider incorporating bookends - bold colours, interesting textures and materials, or even picture frames make great bookends and stand out on neutral shelves.
We love the use of book stands for your favourite display books - they can be used as an eye-catching focal point on your shelf. Plus, they’re a great way to add height and dimension to the display. When selecting book stands, look for pieces that complement the rest of your styling and fit in with the overall theme of the room. Check out our favourite one below.
Marble & Acrylic Book Stand makes an excellent touch for your display books
Greenery
Adding some greenery or other decorative elements is another great way to spruce up your bookshelf. Place plants or flowers in vases on a shelf for a natural look. Flowers like orchids are great because they are low maintenance, live long, and are beautiful. We also love when plants are adorned on the top and have leaves that cascade down to add a fresh romantic feel. You can even use artificial plants if you don’t have time for real ones. In our display, we used the forever roses. They last at least one year, and never need water or sunlight, making them extremely low maintenance.
Set of 3 Black and White Ceramic Monkey
Utilize Your Surrounding Wall Space
Don’t forget about wall space when styling your bookshelf. Hang, or display, art above and/or around your bookcase for added flair. If you have room on top of the bookcase, a large clock or decorative lamp will be awarded additional style points.
Decorative Items
Introducing decorative items can curate character, but beware, this is where things have the potential to go a little sideways. When styling bookcases it can be tempting to go overboard with the knick-knacks and tchotchkes. We get it; those little things are cute, but more isn't always better. Embracing a little negative space (or blank/white space) can give the rest of your shelf-styling room to breathe. *A few* well-placed, carefully curated accessories go a long way.
Some decorative accents that can really bring out the beauty of your bookshelves can include pieces you've collected on your travels, treasured family heirlooms, latest season homewares, plants, candles, vases or trays, we could go on and on... Depending on your style, you could use almost anything as decorative accents. Not only will these accents add interest, texture and depth — but they’ll also highlight your personal aesthetic. Plus, they’ll help tie in existing décor throughout your home while adding a touch of personality to the space at the same time. Just remember not everything needs to be emphasized, and less is more.
Golden Multi Face Bowl
Styling a bookshelf doesn’t have to be difficult, or expensive. By following these simple steps – selecting appropriate items, choosing a colour palette, and organizing everything in order – you can create an eye-catching display that will become a focal point in any room in your home. These will be the styling elements that will make the bookshelf design come to life and give it all of your personality and character. So go ahead – take some time this weekend to give your bookshelf some extra love. It's amazing how restyling the old, can immediately make your home feel new.