Hours
When it comes to built-in shelves or freestanding bookcases, putting a little thought into their arrangement can add visual interest and turn your book collection into a stylish accessory. Whether you’re going for a clean, modern look or a more eclectic feel, try a few of these ideas to create the look you want.
Mix Things Up
Change up the orientation of the books with a mix of vertical arrangements and horizontal stacks. Place decorative objects on top of the horizontal books to give them more emphasis. Try varying the heights of your books or arranging from tallest to shortest.
Arrange Books by Color
If you don’t have a large book collection, try sorting them in groups by color. This can make a big impact on white shelves.
Use Decorative Objects
Break up your books with pieces like vases, sculptural pieces, boxes, or favorite mementos. If your books are arranged by color, try color-coordinating your objects, too.
Incorporate Nature
Organic elements like rocks, plants, or seashells add contrast to stacks or rows of books. Try placing small shells or stones in jars for a more collective feel.
Don’t Forget Bookends
This is a great way to display favorite pieces and add personality to your shelves. Consider using framed photos or heavy bowls, vases, or other pottery to keep books upright.
Use Baskets and Boxes
Not only will you have a place to stash odds and ends you don’t want cluttering up your shelves, you’ll have additional design elements to work with. Woven baskets can add interesting texture, and colorful or patterned boxes can complement the design of the rest of the room.
Add Artwork
Depending on the size of your shelves, you can place large art pieces behind smaller books and objects, or even hang prints on the front of the shelves.
Use Empty Space
You don’t have to fill every square inch of every shelf. Empty space gives the eye a chance to res, and favorite art pieces or sculptures will stand out more if they’re alone on a shelf.
