A bookshelf is a functional piece of furniture that is often overlooked when it comes to home decor. It’s not only a place to store books; it’s also an opportunity to showcase your style and personality. Styling a bookshelf can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know where to start, but thankfully it doesn’t take a lot of effort to make it look picture-perfect.

With a few simple tips and tricks, you can elevate your shelving game and turn your bookshelf into a statement piece in your home.

Start with a blank canvas

The first step to styling your bookcase is to empty it out. This will allow you to have a fresh slate to work with. Before you start adding items back, take a moment to decide on the overall vibe you want to achieve. Do you want a minimalist, modern look? Or are you aiming for a bohemian and eclectic style? Whatever it may be, knowing the overall aesthetic you’re going for will be helpful in selecting what items to include.

Create a focal point

Create a focal point on your bookshelf to draw the eye and add interest. A focal point can be a large object, like a vase or sculpture, or a group of objects that are visually appealing. Place your focal point on the center shelf, and build around it. Use different textures, sizes, and shapes to create a visually stimulating display.

Mix and match

Mix up the items on your shelves to create balance and interest. Alternate books with decorative items such as picture frames, candles, and plants. Use different heights and sizes to break up the monotony and add dimension to your shelves. Stack books horizontally and vertically to create depth. Don’t be afraid to play around with the arrangement, and adjust until you find the right balance.

Play around with placement

Don’t just stick with the traditional method of stacking your books. Try alternating the direction of your books, laying them flat, or using bookends to create depth. You can even try arranging your books by size to create a visually interesting pattern. Mix and match until you find a layout that works best for you.

Create visual balance

Achieving a sense of visual balance is essential in any design project. This also applies to styling your bookshelf. To create balance on your shelf, start with your focal point then work on balancing out the space by alternating heights and weights on either side of the focal point. Repetition of items is another way to create balance; try repeating a color or texture throughout the shelf.

Embrace negative space

As tempting as it may be to fill every nook and cranny of your bookshelf, leaving negative or empty space is just as important in design. Negative space creates a sense of breathing room and helps your eyes focus on the items that are present. Don’t be afraid to let some of your books and decor items have their own space without being crowded or touching other items.

Add lighting

Lighting is often overlooked when styling bookshelves, but it’s crucial. Adding lighting to your bookshelf will not only highlight your items but also create a cozy ambiance. You can add small lamps or install LED strips at the back of your shelves to create a warm glow. Consider using colored light bulbs to add a fun pop of color to your bookshelf.

A well-styled bookshelf can be a conversation starter and a reflection of your personality. With a little bit of creativity and inspiration, you can turn your bookshelf into an aesthetically pleasing focal point in your home. By following the tips, you can style your bookcase like a pro and make it look like it was designed by an interior designer.

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We hope you’ll consider Hayden Homes when you’re ready to buy your next home. We build new construction homes for every stage in life in Montana, Idaho, Oregon, or Washington and we’re sure you’ll find the right home for your family.