How to Style Bookcases
Bookshelf decor made simple.
Bookcases aren't just for books. They also offer the ideal space to display your favorite collection of bookshelf decor. Finding a place for everything, however, can pose a little bit of a puzzle – especially if you want to keep it from looking cluttered. Learn how to style bookcases and get the results you want with this guide.
How to Style Bookcases
A book case should be an elegant part of your room, not a cluttered and overstuffed eyesore. To start styling a bookcase begin by decluttering and taking stock of what you have. Remember, your bookshelf is more than a space to store your books – you can elevate your collection with beautifully displayed bookshelf decor. If you are unsure of how to style a books, below are some of our favorite bookshelf design ideas to get you started.
1. Less Is More
If you are just figuring out how to style bookcases, always remember that less is more. Bookshelves take up a large amount of space, making them a focal point in the room. So you want to prevent clutter and keep from overfilling the shelves. Arrange items in odd numbers to create a more balanced look and leave visual space to prevent clutter. Above all else, be sure to take a step back and edit.
2. Start From Scratch
When deciding how to style a bookcase, you may want to start with a fresh slate. Get inspired by the shape, design, and color of a brand new bookcase and choose a decorating direction from there. A geometric shelf will give you space to display a large array of bookshelf decor in smaller compartments, an etagere bookcase is ideal for an open design aesthetic, and a library bookcase will provide a grand display for a large book collection.
When it comes to styling bookshelves, there are endless options to choose from – so it is up to you to make sure that the decorative objects you select coordinate with your books and room decor. Pair books with a set of dramatic bookends on one shelf and alternate the next with decorative objects that speak to your personality. Little sculptures, an hourglass, or letter blocks in your initials all make a personalized statement to match your tomes.
When selecting your bookshelf decor, make sure to leave room for memories. Use frames to display photographs and fancy trays for special trinkets. Feature only the keepsakes that you truly love and fit in with your current bookshelf design ideas. You can always change them out seasonally to keep your bookshelf looking fresh.
Something to bear in mind when learning how to style bookcases, is the importance of space. You don't have to fill every shelf with books or bookshelf decor. To avoid over-styling, take into account visual weight. Keep some shelf space free to create lightness. Place trinkets on top of books and leave plenty of space around each item for a curated look.
If you find your bookshelf decor is looking a little too stark, consider including a bit of greenery. Plants provide an organic element that helps to soften hard edges while making for a pretty bookcase. Don't worry if you don't have a green thumb, artificial plants will work just as well to add a little natural balance. Vases also give you the chance to regularly update the look with seasonal flowers.
There are not set rules for arranging bookshelves, and you certainly don't need to pack all your books next to one another for a regimented look. Rather than using the Dewey Decimal System, arrange by size, shape, and color. Pile prints on their sides to create visual interest and top them off with an hourglass . Group similarly sized novels together, push some books a little further back and place a globe or candles in front of them. Just be sure to make it look deliberate to avoid a messy feeling.
Choosing metallic accents will instantly elevate your bookshelf decor. Choose a classy metal bookcase for a stunning focal point. Variety is important but remember to stick to only either warm metals (gold, bronze, copper), or cool metals (silver, nickel, chrome). For additional texture, opt for items with geometric, embossed, or filigreed patterns to break up the monotony of the many vertical and horizontal lines.
When curating your shelves, consider colors. Whether you opt for monochrome, several different bright shades, or simply choose a neutral scheme – styling a bookcase with color is a fun way to go. Group books with the similarly toned spines next to a boldly pigmented figurine. Separate different hues into individual piles and arrange them across the bookcase. Pick one or two dominant colors and repeat them throughout the shelves. No matter which you choose, using color will hep you elevate your book collection.
Organize the contents of your bookshelf by size. Place larger books and bookshelf decor on the bottom shelves and smaller ones with less visual weight higher up for a more balanced look. Use baskets to store additional items without cluttering up the shelves while adding texture and keeping their contents within easy reach.
To make a grand statement, place two identical bookcases next to one another or on either side of a focal point such as a fireplace or a TV stand. Keep in mind the size of your room so they don't overwhelm the space. Remember that with an additional bookcase, you want to be extra careful not to add clutter just because you have more space. For help selecting a bookcase, read The Best Bookcases: How to Choose the Perfect Bookcase.
Use artwork as bookshelf decor. Small eye-catching pieces and budget-friendly posters can easily be changed out whenever you want a new look. Utilize the shelf depth by placing larger artworks at the back of the shelf and a small collection of paperbacks in front. Place colorful books next to dark painting or visa versa for an impactful look.
Now you know how to style a bookcase, you can display your collection with ease.
