The Art of Styling Bookshelves & Tables: Transforming Your Space with Charm and Personality
Today, we’re diving into one of my favourite aspects of home styling: bookshelves. A well styled bookshelf can be a game changer in the look and feel of a space. These versatile pieces are more than just storage solutions—they’re an opportunity to infuse your space with charm, personality, and a touch of your unique style. Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or just starting your journey, I’m here to guide you through the process of creating a bookshelf display that not only looks stunning but also reflects who you are.
Begin with a Clean Slate – Before you start styling, clear everything off your bookshelf. This step allows you to see the space with fresh eyes and opens up possibilities you might not have considered before.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity to dust and clean those shelves! As you remove items, consider which ones you love and want to feature and which can be stored elsewhere or donated.
Go Big – Always arrange your largest items first. This will help you establish the scale and balance of your bookshelf. You can then arrange smaller items around these.
Embrace the Power of Books – Books are the heart of any bookshelf, so let’s make them shine. Start by grouping books by size and colour for a cohesive look. You can arrange them vertically, stack them horizontally, face the cover out or even face the spine backwards to give a neural look (that will make it hard to know what book they are though!). Don’t be afraid to mix things up – combine different combinations for visual interest.
Consider creating small clusters of books, alternating between vertical and horizontal stacks. This approach not only breaks up the monotony but also provides varying heights for other decorative elements.
Add Personal Touches – Now that your books are in place, it’s time to add some personality as you style the rest of your bookshelf. Think about the items that make you smile – treasured holiday finds, family photos, heirlooms, quirky trinkets and your latest purchases all give shape to the arrangement and inject personality.
Layering and Variety – When adding decorative objects, vary their sizes and shapes to create a dynamic look. For instance, a small sculpture can sit atop a stack of books giving it height and greater presence; framed photo can lean against a row of upright books or be placed at the back with smaller items in front.
Remember, odd numbers of items tend to look more visually appealing. Arrange little vignettes of varying heights together in groups of 1, 3 or 5 and imagine each as its own little scene that is linked to its neighbour.
Introduce Greenery – Plants are a fantastic way to bring life to your bookshelf. They add a touch of nature, freshness and vitality which can soften the overall look. Consider small potted plants like succulent, personally I love a trailing Devil’s Ivy for its ultimate low maintenance style. If you are worried about maintenance, high-quality faux plants are a great alternative.
Play with Texture and Color – A well-styled bookshelf isn’t just about what you put on it, but how those items work together. Pay attention to texture and colour to create a harmonious display. Mix materials like wood, metal, glass, and ceramics to add depth and interest. For colour, choose a palette that compliments your room’s decor. Neutral tones can create a calming effect, while pops of vibrant colours can energise the space but it is best to stick to no more than 3-5 colours and spread them out.
Utilise Bookends – Bookends are not just practical; they’re also an opportunity to add style. Look for bookends that complement your decor—anything from sleek, modern designs to vintage finds can work. They can also be a fun way to express your personality.
Create Visual Balance – When styling your bookshelf, aim for visual balance rather than perfect symmetry. This means distributing colours, shapes, and sizes evenly across the shelves. For example, if you have a tall vase on the top left shelf, balance it with a tall object towards the lower right. This approach keeps your display looking cohesive and pleasing to the eye.
Incorporate Art – Art isn’t just for walls—your bookshelf can be a mini gallery too! Incorporate small framed prints or photos to add an artistic touch. You can lean them against the back of the shelf or even layer them in front of books. This adds another layer of depth and personalization to your display.
Creating Joy – Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to style a bookshelf. It’s all about creating a space that makes you happy. Your home is a reflection of you, and every detail, from the smallest trinket to the grandest piece of art, tells your story. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Design is all about finding joy in the journey and creating spaces that bring you happiness and comfort.
Rotate and Refresh – One of the best things about styling bookshelves is that they’re not permanent. Feel free to rotate items and refresh your display whenever you like. This keeps your space feeling dynamic and allows you to showcase new finds or seasonal decor. Plus, it’s a fun way to keep your creativity flowing!
Happy decorating! But as always if you would like some help with a forthcoming renovation or interiors project please feel free to reach out to us here – we’d love to help you!
Photo credits:
Public311design
LivingetcOfficial
Theluxecollective
TaraNelsonDesigns
TheEveryGirl
SarahBirnie
