Bookshelves are one of the best spots to inject personality, style and color into a room. If your books are filled end-to-end with only books, removing the sea of books and incorporating objects and accessories can showcase your aesthetic and lighten up the overall space. Read on for go-to styling secrets to make any bookshelf come to life.
Clear the shelves
As you plan out your bookshelf styling project, the first step is to remove all existing items from the shelves to create a blank slate and take a comprehensive inventory of what you have. Then, by looking at everything together, you can begin to visualize the items that work together and take stock of what you need to fill in the blanks.
Take inventory
In addition to books, some go-to items are perfect for bookshelf styling. These items include:
- Bookends
- Jars and vases
- Art
- Framed photographs
- Candles
- Potted flowers and plants
- Boxes, small baskets, bowls
- Small clocks
- Accent objects
- Any unique personal items
Add wallpaper
Wallpapering the backs of the shelves can add color, texture and pattern to otherwise plain shelves. Grasscloth adds texture without detracting from the objects on the shelf, while a patterned wallpaper can help elevate the bookshelves and further inject personality into the space.
Style in odd numbers
Groupings of odd numbers are easier on the eyes. So when you’re gathering the objects to style the shelves, keep this tip in mind. Objects of three work exceptionally well in a small space such as a shelf.
Incorporate crystal
Small crystal objects, such as a picture frame, clock, bowl, or candlesticks, can offer a visual break while still filling the space. If the shelves are filled with visually heavy items, incorporating crystal objects can help create a respite for the eye.
Mix texture and metals
Incorporating different textures and finishes will help prevent the styling from falling flat. Combining several complementary colors, different textures, varying shades of wood and multiple metal finishes will create a layered and visually luxe appearance.
Incorporate art
Art can be displayed in different ways on the shelves. For example, framed art pieces can lean against the back of the shelf to add depth and serve as layering pieces. And art can hang on the frame of the bookshelf, creating a focal point on the bookshelves.
Stack books both vertically and horizontally
Being creative with the way the books are displayed can make the shelves feel more interesting. For example, small stacks of books can be displayed vertically, horizontally, without book jackets or backward. All these methods allow the bookshelves to serve its functional purpose while achieving your aesthetic goals.
Create a visual zig-zag
Zig-zagging similar items creates a pleasing effect and keeps the eye moving. So whether it’s blue and white ginger jars, similar-sized large picture frames, or potted topiaries, staggering these items on the shelves to create a zig-zag effect going down helps to create unity and cohesiveness on the shelves.
