How To Style Bookcases And Shelves
Bookcases originally served the purpose to store and display your books. However, there’s ample opportunity to expand their function into a delightful decorative focal point. The first principle of bookcase styling is that the space is not exclusive to books but a wonderland for photographs, plants and ornaments. Another important principle is to not stuff your bookcases full to the brim – less is sometimes more! Here are our top bookcase and shelf styling tips to help you out!
Finding the perfect bookcase for your space
A great starting point is placement. Firstly, identify which room best fits your bookcase, and then within that room, choose a spot that will ultimately elevate and showcase your items the best. Along with floating shelves, bookcases can fill spaces along large and otherwise bare walls. If you are looking for a new bookcase, check out our affordable Lean Bookcase Desk with its eye-catching book ladder. We offer a range of stylish and functional options that can perfectly complement your space.
Floating shelves don’t have to be purely decorative. It’s a good idea to add useful items that will often be needed in proximity to the shelf. If the shelf is in the kitchen, it can contain assorted jars or perhaps pots and pans. A shelf in the laundry room can hold detergents and washing pegs alongside items that spruce up the utilitarian appearance.
Bookcases can look amazing if they’re filled with a healthy dose of books. But not everyone has an impressive personal library. With lots of empty space, bookcases tend to become storage spaces for random junk. With a bit of deliberate planning, your limited selection of books can fit right in with a few carefully chosen accessories and plants.
Consider your colour scheme before you start. Aim for complementary and cohesive colours in a range of different textures, rather than presenting an overwhelming colour and pattern clash. When you’re ready to start adding decorative décor, begin with larger items such as plants and vases. These should anchor your styling, with smaller items fitting in and around them. Group your items in uneven clusters—groups of 3 or 5, in varying heights and depths.
Have Fun & Get Creative
Incorporate Wall Art
Wall art doesn’t need to be hung; it can be a great addition to your shelves. Large, framed posters can help fill larger spaces, while smaller items can balance out bigger pieces. Avoid filling the space with random trinkets. Instead, choose meaningful items that enhance your display, as clutter can detract from the overall look.
Add Functional Decor
Consider adding a stylish lamp like the mushroom-shaped Eliza Table Lamp to brighten up the room. This rechargeable, wireless lamp comes with a USB cord for easy charging, allowing you to change and style the bookcase as needed.
Enhance with Fragrance
Include a diffuser or scented candle jar on your bookcase to add a pleasant fragrance to your room. This keeps your space smelling fresh while maintaining a clean and stylish look.
Complete with Plants
Small plants can enhance the styling of your bookcases and shelves. Opt for low-maintenance or faux indoor plants of various shapes and sizes. Their pots or vases can contribute to the decor as well. Balance is key—avoid overstuffing and strive for a harmonious arrangement.
Finishing Touches
Before finalizing your bookcase styling, take a step back and review your creation with a critical eye. Don’t hesitate to adjust, remove, or rearrange items until you’re satisfied with the result. Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect—it should reflect your personal taste, life memories, and passions. Happy styling and explore our wide range of bookcases & bookshelves today!