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DESIGN 101
How To Style a Magazine-Worthy Bookcase
A person’s bookcase can offer a window into their mind and reveal their biggest passions. Someone who loves learning may fill their shelves with nonfiction books and antique scientific instruments. Meanwhile, an adventurous globetrotter may display mementos and photographs from their travels.
Designing a bookcase allows you to showcase your interests and tastes. This furniture can also elevate your space and provide an attention-grabbing focal point. But how can you get started? This article unpacks everything you need to know about how to style a bookcase that's uniquely you.
Start by choosing the right bookcase for your aesthetic and goal. There are many types of bookcases, including:
Traditional bookcase
This old-school style is typically made from heavy wood and may have cabinets or drawers at the bottom.
Built-in bookcase
This custom furniture is installed directly into the walls of your home and often fills the floor to the ceiling.
Circular bookcase
This type has a unique round design and open shelves.
Ladder bookcase
This style leans against the wall at an angle and has narrow, open shelves resembling ladder rungs.
Open-back bookcase
This modern furniture has open shelves that show the books from both sides.
Consider a built-in or traditional bookcase if you have hundreds of books to store. Meanwhile, a circular or ladder bookcase may work best to display decorative items.
Where To Place a Bookcase
A bookcase is a versatile piece of furniture that can fit in many spaces. Here are three popular locations:
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Bedroom
Place a bookcase in your bedroom to keep your favorite reading materials close at hand. This option lets you quickly access your books if you’re having trouble sleeping or want to spend the morning lounging with a good story. Set up the bookcase in a corner and add a cozy armchair to create a private reading nook.
•
Home Office
Many people keep a bookcase in their home office to reference materials while working. Place the bookcase on the wall behind your office chair for a sophisticated background for video calls.
•
Living Room
If you want to show off your collection to guests, put a bookcase in your living room. Consider setting this furniture against an empty wall as a focal point, or add bookcases on either side of a fireplace for a symmetrical look.
Which Size Bookcase To Choose
There are several factors to consider when choosing the size of a bookcase, including:
•
Room dimensions
Measure the dimensions of your room to determine the space available for a bookcase.
•
Weight capacity
If you have a lot of books, look for a sturdy bookcase with thick shelves and extra brackets designed to support a heavy load.
How To Style a Bookcase
Once you’ve selected your bookcase, you’re ready to design your dream display. These creative bookcase decorating ideas can help you create a unique and stylish look.
1. Use different stacking orientations
Traditional bookshelves have rows of vertical books, but this method can make all the books blend together. Add visual interest by alternating between horizontal and vertical stacks of books. For instance, you could stack a few hardcover books horizontally next to a vertical row of horror paperbacks. This approach creates a more dynamic layout and lets you spotlight your favorite authors or genres.
2. Choose stylish bookends
Use bookends to add symmetry to your bookcase and prevent vertically stacked books from toppling. Look for bookends that complement the color of your books or fit the genre. For instance, you can prop up your fantasy collection with dragon heads, while a row of classic novels may have a vintage lion bookend.
3. Paint your bookcase
A fresh coat of paint will help you create the ideal atmosphere for your reading space. If you want a classic and sophisticated look, consider a neutral color like light gray, taupe, or white. Meanwhile, rich hues like dark blue and moss green provide a vibrant backdrop for books.
4. Add a ladder
Channel your inner librarian by adding a sliding ladder to your bookcase. This feature works best with built-in bookcases or rows of tall, freestanding bookcases. For safety, follow the installation instructions carefully.
5. Set the mood with bookcase lighting
Spotlight your collection by adding warm lighting to your bookcase. For optimal illumination, drape fairy lights along the shelves or install LED lighting strips under each shelf.
6. Select a cohesive color palette
Choose one or two primary colors for your bookcase decor to create a harmonious look. For instance, you could mix black and white accents for a classic look or only pick decorations in shades of blue. This approach will make your bookcase design look cohesive and intentional.
7. Layer books and decorations
Diversify your bookcase design by layering books and decor. Place small paintings or sculptures against the back of the shelves to create depth. You can also place small decorations on top of stacks of horizontal books for visual variety.
8. Mix and match materials and textures
Enrich your display by combining elements with different materials and textures. For example, you can pair dried flowers with a smooth ceramic vase or place a glass figurine next to a rugged clay sculpture.
9. Make it personal
Use your bookcase to display items that reflect your life and experiences. Family photographs, travel souvenirs, and other objects with sentimental value add a personal touch.
10. Spruce it up with plants
Display small houseplants like cacti and succulents on some of the shelves to breathe life into your bookcase and add natural textures. Place saucers under the plants to prevent water from leaking onto your books.
Tell Your Story With Your Bookcase Design
Bookcases are among the most customizable pieces of furniture. The items you arrange on their shelves can reveal your life story and showcase your interests. Following our bookcase styling tips, you can design a memorable display that fits your tastes and overall aesthetic.