Styling bookshelves can be a daunting task, but with the right tips and tricks, you can create a beautiful display that will complement your home’s aesthetic. From arranging books by color or genre to adding decorative touches like plants, pottery and artwork, there are many ways to customize your shelves. Here are some techniques to help curate your cases to achieve a finished, layered look.
First, all bookshelves should display books. Whether or not you are an avid reader, the books create weight, interest, and a sense of purpose for why the shelves have been incorporated into your design. When it comes to deciding which books to display, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on your personal preferences, your budget and the style of your home. From a classic collection of literature or a modern selection of bestsellers, finding the right books can be a little overwhelming, so think about the volume of what is needed to fill the space before you get started. A perfect place to begin is a visit to your local bookstore, consignment shop, or a place similar to Savers, and pull some spines that match the color scheme of your room. Don’t be afraid to remove their jackets as the actual book is usually nicer than the cover.
Second, there should be a rhythm in your display. Differences in size and weight are key factors when picking and placing. Whether you’re bound by symmetry or looking for a more eclectic, boho feel, you need to create a sense of balance. Think of it like Yin and Yang, where one shelf is doing the opposite of the other. By stacking the books in various heights both vertically and horizontally, you can start a pattern and follow that movement from top to bottom. Be careful though, because bookshelves can go from looking chic to sloppy when you add too much of any one thing. Make sure to leave some room to place additional intentional décor.
Third, your collection should tell a story. By adding other objects to your shelving, you carry a bit of your personality into your space. Small works of art, artifacts, and some greenery can create a visual storyboard of things that interest you or that you have accumulated along the way. These pieces are what add dimension and anchor the stacks of books. Plants (and the pottery they live in) also create interest with organic texture, color and the bonus of purifying the air in your home.
Bookcases take time to fill and are always evolving. Good thing, we have most of what you need at Elizabeth Home! We are constantly adding new and unique accessories to our inventory and are now offering styling services. With our help, a little creativity, and some effort, you can turn any bookcase into an eye-catching display that will complete your interiors! Stop by or call the studio now to get started!
242 Commonwealth Ave. Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
617.965.0069
