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Infusing the space with a cozy ambiance, the narrow shelves are neatly stocked with books, breaking up the all-wood walls with some colorful spines. It’s a lesson in bookshelf styling, AKA bookshelf wealth – a trend that has taken over our social media feeds over the past several months.
While there are some strategies to follow when styling a bookshelf, according to experts, it ultimately comes down to filling the shelves while maintaining some tidiness.
‘By following these tips, you can create a bookshelf that is busy and curated without feeling cluttered,’ says designer Nina Lichtenstein. ‘The key is to strike a balance between books and decorative objects, maintain variety, and ensure there is enough negative space to keep the display visually appealing. With a thoughtful approach, your bookshelf can become a beautifully styled backdrop and conversation starter that enhances the overall aesthetic of your home.’
There are endless ways to organize books, but Lichtenstein offers a few tried-and-true examples for those hoping to keep a bookshelf neat and accessible.
‘Arrange books by theme, genre, or subject to create a sense of order,’ she suggests. ‘Utilize stylish bookends to keep rows of books in place and add a decorative element. Alternatively, periodically rotate books and objects to keep the display fresh and engaging.’
Simpson has arranged the top shelves vertically, while the bottom shelves feature horizontal stacks, maintaining some visual interest.
Lichtenstein approves of arranging high, middle, and low shelves slightly differently.
‘For the top shelf, I recommend a horizontal stack of large coffee table books with a small sculpture on top., vertically aligned books with a potted plant at one end, and leaning framed artwork against the back of the shelf,’ she states. Meanwhile, the middle shelf, often at eye level, can be styled with aesthetics at the forefront.
‘I would place vertical books organized by color alongside a few decorative objects such as a vintage clock and a small ceramic vase, in addition to a framed photo placed in front of a row of books,’ she recommends.
Finally, much like Simpson, Lichtenstein recommends mixing up stacking methods on the lower shelves.
‘For the bottom, try a mix of horizontal and vertical book stacks,’ she says. ‘A couple of storage boxes are useful to hide less attractive items, while a trailing plant adds a touch of greenery.’
Overall, we recommend prioritizing personalization in any shelving unit. Keep trinkets as complementary objects to all-time favorite books.
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