Okay, so you have bookshelves up and you’re ready to style them. But… How do you do that? Is there a bookshelf law code that you have to follow? Do you just follow your heart? In this blog post, we’re going to get into some tips and tricks for getting into the bookshelf “zone.” Styling a bookshelf is a whole mindset if you’re open to it. Are you ready to jump in?
7 Styling Tips for Your Radical Bookshelves
Now, keep in mind that this is your bookshelf—not ours (even if you used some of our gnarly shelving units, wink)! That means that whatever you say… goes! Don’t let naysayers tell you differently, mkay? This being said, here are a few tips that will help you get in that “bookshelf styling headspace” so you can get those creative juices flowing, dude.
#1: Don’t Overstuff!
A common mistake people make when styling bookshelves is going full library mode on them. And, if that’s what you’re going for, that’s fine. However, if you’re trying to make your bookshelf a design piece rather than a library shelf, you’ll want to limit the items and books you actually don them with. There should be anywhere from 25–50% empty space on your shelving, spread out across all openings. Pro tip: Start with a clean slate by removing everything from the shelf first. This gives you a fresh perspective and makes it easier to avoid overcrowding.
A mix of sizes in this display of vinyl, books, art and plants by @newdarlings creates a visually interesting display.
#2: Use a Variety of Sizes for Items
Carrying on from the first tip, using differently-sized items can certainly help with this. Remember: your books can go horizontally, too! Don’t limit yourself here, because some items may fit better on top of a small stack of books—specifically oddly-shaped trinkets and doo-dads. Also, try varying the heights and depths of your items. Play with layering—place some items further back and others closer to the front for added depth and visual interest.
#3: Don’t Let Perfection Hold You Back
We kind of touched on this above, but we feel the need to emphasize, drive this home, and elaborate. If you’re like many novice designers, there can be an overwhelming urge to make things “perfect.” Well, we’re here to tell you that there is no perfect when it comes to interior design. That’s right—interior design is a lot like art: there’s no right or wrong way to design your bookshelves. So, take a deep breath, step back, and ask yourself this important question:
“What do I like?” Remember, balance is key—find harmony in how you distribute items across the shelf, but don’t stress if it’s not flawless.
#4: Use a Limited, Cohesive Color Palette
Another way to make your bookshelves appear on point is to stick to a limited color palette that fits the overall color scheme of the room. You can never go wrong with neutrals like white, off-white, tan, and grays. However, if your room has a pop of color, make sure to tie that into your bookshelf, too. You’ll be amazed how much it helps to pull the bookshelf into the overall design and thoughtfulness of your room. And don’t forget to mix materials and textures—combine wood, glass, metal, and ceramics to add layers of visual and tactile interest.
What’s perfection anyway? Use your meaningful objects to create a bookshelf you want to see everyday.
#5: Display Items That Mean Something to You
There’s no better way to make the shelf shout “you” than putting some of your favorite objects on it. Whether that means putting souvenirs from travels or simply an object that speaks to you on a weird level, go for it! After all, this is your space—not anyone else’s. Add some art and greenery too! Lean a framed piece of art against the wall or add a small potted plant. These elements will breathe life and personality into your shelves.
Nada @onefourtyfour_ nails it everytime with her shelf styling. Edited to perfection.
#6: Don’t Be Afraid to Make Edits
Unless you’re gluing items to your shelf, you can move things around as much as you see fit. And you might find that it takes a week or so for you to figure out where each item’s new home is—that’s fine. Don’t be afraid to walk by your shelves from different angles and make tweaks and revisions to the overall look. Furthermore, your shelf can evolve over time! If you get bored of an item, swap it out for a new one! Creating visual groupings with odd numbers of items (like three or five) can help to maintain a cohesive look while giving you flexibility to make edits as you go.
A jaunty, cheery color scheme? Yes! Make it F.U.N.
#7: Have Fun!
By golly, if you don’t have fun with it, it’s not worth it! Here at Shelfology, we want you to be excited about your space. If it doesn’t make your heart sing, rearrange and try again—or set the project aside for a couple of days and look for a new piece to add to the shelf that excites you. Don’t let decorating become drudgery—life’s too short!
Picture ledges are a great option for kids’ room shelves!
Shelfology: Bold, Beautiful Shelves That Will Rock Your Socks
Don’t have a bookshelf yet? No problem. We’ve got all kinds of shelving solutions that will blow your mind. From juicy, heavy-duty, hardwood floating shelves to our Fat Lippie Picture Ledges, we have a solution for what you have in mind. Plus, our shelves are all a cinch to install—you’ll be decorating your new shelves in no time.
So, get out there and browse our collection or get busy decorating what you already have, dudes!
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