Bookcase Styling: 5 Simple Tricks!
Styling bookcases can seem a bit tricky. If you’re struggling with styling one of your own, then you’re in the right place! In this blog, we share some simple shelf styling tricks we use that can also be applied to coffee tables, end tables or any other open shelf you’d like to dress up a bit. Done with intention, bookcases can be beautiful focal points in a room as well as great conversation starters. Apply these tips and in no time at all you’ll have a styled masterpiece of your own!
1. SCALE
Start with larger items first. Place large vases and sculptural items throughout your bookcase. Lean larger pieces of art or photo frames in the back. Step back to look at your bookcase as a whole. Does it look balanced? Do you have too many large items in one area? Go ahead and spread them out.
2. RULE OF ODDS
Now it’s time to create “vignettes” by adding the smaller items. Ignite conversation by displaying collectibles, photos and keepsakes from travel or gifts that are special and have meaning to you. Place these items in groups of odd numbers to keep your bookcase looking visually balanced and combine them with books stacked vertically and horizontally. Go ahead and layer the items by placing the smallest or shortest in the front and offset with larger, taller pieces behind them. Be sure to overlap and angle things for interest. If you have a particularly large item, go ahead and leave it by itself providing open space which keeps your bookcase from looking too busy. Step back again to take a look at the bookshelf as a whole, keeping balance in mind. Shift things around a bit if needed.
3. COLOR, SHAPE, TEXTURE
As you build your vignettes, try to include different shapes and textures. Bookcases and books are linear so adding some organic shapes to the mix keeps it interesting. Include textures such as glass, metal, baskets and wooden items. If you introduce a color, be sure to spread it out as well so one side of your bookcase isn’t heavy with color. With each few pieces you add, step back and scan. One area might need more color, or maybe something round or a bit taller. If the spine of the books you are using introduce a color you don’t like, turn the book around so the neutral colored pages are forward facing.
4. GREENERY
Place a few small, potted succulents throughout the shelves or add a plant with long, grassy texture to infuse an organic touch. Plants add life to your display (even if they are faux). Spread them out, continue with the theme of using different shapes, textures, sizes and even shades of greens. Plants make great fillers for your individual vignettes.
5. SWAP FOR THE SEASONS
Your bookcase can be an ever revolving work of art. Swap out items as you collect new things from your travels and adventures. Change out a few pieces seasonally or with the holidays to keep it fresh and fun. Fill a bowl with a few faux pumpkins or swap spring greenery for fall foliage. Add pine or cedar branches during the winter season.
Well there you go! I hope these tricks come in handy next time you have the urge to restyle your bookshelves. Remember, these are merely tricks that those of us in the trade use. There is really no right or wrong way to go about the styling process and as long as the finished product proudly displays your prized treasures and feels good to you then you have been successful at the art of bookshelf styling!
