The bookcase. It's functional by maximizing space and aesthetically pleasing by adding height to balance out a room. The bookcase is also not just for books. It is a wonderful place to add treasures that personalize your space. Here are some tips on how to style a bookcase.
A Clean Start
Remove all items from your shelves. Store or donate unsightly paperback books.
The study above, designed by Carrier and Company Interiors Ltd., is a beautiful example of how a bookcases help maximize a space, while adding height for overall balance.
Add a Splash of Color
For visual interest, back your shelves with a contrasting wallpaper print or colorful paint. This gorgeous bookcase by Samantha Pynn {decorator, stylist and host and principal designer of Pure Design on HGTV} is backed with Schumacher's Imperial Trellis by Kelly Wearstler in Charcoal.
For visual interest, back your shelves with a contrasting wallpaper print or colorful paint. This gorgeous bookcase by Samantha Pynn {decorator, stylist and host and principal designer of Pure Design on HGTV} is backed with Schumacher's Imperial Trellis by Kelly Wearstler in Charcoal.
Some Up and Some Down
Books can be wonderful home accessories, so showcase the most beautiful ones in your collection. Arrange the books by size, subject and color. Create a rhythmic pattern by placing books vertically as well as horizontally {horizontal books can also act as bookends}. I love how designer, Molly Luetkmeyer of M. Design Interiors arranged the books and accessories in the built-in bookshelf above.
Make it Pretty
Adding objects such as shapely ceramics, decorative boxes, small sculptures, family photos and original artwork makes your bookcase more visually interesting and personal. When selecting objects, be aware of the scale and color. Objects shouldn’t blend in or get lost on the shelves. Here is an example of beautiful bookcases flanking a fireplace from Elle Decor {May 2008} that showcase more decorative objects than books. It makes me think that "Bookless" bookshelves may show up more often as people go high tech and move to the Kindle or iPad to read books. What do you think? Do you like the look?
Adding objects such as shapely ceramics, decorative boxes, small sculptures, family photos and original artwork makes your bookcase more visually interesting and personal. When selecting objects, be aware of the scale and color. Objects shouldn’t blend in or get lost on the shelves. Here is an example of beautiful bookcases flanking a fireplace from Elle Decor {May 2008} that showcase more decorative objects than books. It makes me think that "Bookless" bookshelves may show up more often as people go high tech and move to the Kindle or iPad to read books. What do you think? Do you like the look?
*images courtesy of Splendid Willow, Carrier and Company Interiors, Samantha Pynn Inc., M. Design Interiors, Good Bones, Great Pieces
