A well-styled bookcase can be more than just a storage solution; it can become a stunning focal point in your home. Whether you have a built-in shelving unit, a handmade bookcase, or a standalone bookcase, how you choose to style it can transform the entire room. By blending practicality with aesthetics, you can turn your bookcase into a stylish, personalised statement. In this blog, we’ll explore creative ways to style your bookcase for a trendy and modern look that reflects your personality and design preferences.
1. Balance functionality and aesthetics
The first step in styling your bookcase is to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. After all, the primary purpose of a bookcase is to store books, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look beautiful at the same time. A well-styled bookcase includes a mix of books, decorative objects, and practical storage items, such as office furniture or a boot room combination.
When arranging books, consider alternating between vertical and horizontal stacks. This not only helps break up the monotony of rows upon rows of upright books but also provides surfaces for displaying smaller decorative items. For example, you could place a small plant, a candle, or a decorative bowl on top of a stack of horizontally arranged books.
Ensure your bookcase remains practical by allocating enough space for frequently accessed items, such as favourite novels or work-related materials. Then, layer in decorative pieces to give the shelf personality and flair. Remember, you don’t need to fill every inch of space—sometimes, less is more when creating a stylish and trendy look.
2. Play with heights and layers
One of the easiest ways to add visual interest to a bookcase is by playing with heights and layers. A perfectly symmetrical arrangement can sometimes feel too rigid and flat, so instead, aim for a mix of objects in varying sizes and heights.
For instance, place a tall vase or sculpture next to a stack of low-lying books. This creates contrast and helps to guide the viewer’s eye around the shelf. You can also layer items in front of each other to create depth. Lean a framed photo or piece of artwork against the back of the shelf, then place smaller objects like candles or trinkets in front of it.
If you have multiple shelves to work with, try alternating the placement of items so that the shelves don’t all look the same. This technique adds to the overall dynamism of the bookcase, making it feel more curated and thoughtfully designed.
3. Embrace colour coordination
Colour coordination is an effective way to create a cohesive and stylish look for your bookcase. Start by grouping books and decorative objects based on their colours. You can go for a monochromatic theme by sticking to one colour family, or mix bold, contrasting colours for a more eclectic look.
A popular trend is arranging books by the colour of their spines, creating a rainbow effect. While this approach might not be the most practical for finding specific titles, it can be visually striking and make your bookcase a true conversation starter.
If you’re not keen on a rainbow display, try grouping books in shades of one or two colours, such as blue and white or black and gold. You can also use decorative objects in complementary colours to further enhance the look. White bookcases, in particular, offer a clean canvas for vibrant decor.
4. Add personal touches
One of the best ways to make your bookcase truly unique is to incorporate personal items that reflect your life and interests. Rather than filling the shelves solely with generic decorations, consider adding framed photographs, souvenirs from holidays, or meaningful keepsakes.
These personal touches make the space feel more intimate and inviting, turning your bookcase into a showcase of your personality. Display a beloved family photo in a sleek frame or show off a collection of travel mementoes like shells, postcards, or miniature sculptures. These pieces not only tell your story but also break up the repetitive appearance of books and standard décor.
5. Use greenery for a fresh look
Bringing in greenery is a fantastic way to inject life and colour into your bookcase. Small potted plants, succulents, or cascading vines can soften the hard lines of books and other objects, making the space feel more relaxed and natural.
Consider placing a trailing plant, like a pothos or ivy, on one of the upper shelves, allowing the leaves to drape down over the books below. You can also use small succulents or cacti for a more structured, minimalist look. If you don’t have a green thumb, there are plenty of realistic artificial plants that can achieve the same effect. Greenery adds vibrancy and freshness, making the overall styling of your bookcase feel complete.
6. Incorporate art or mirrors
Incorporating art or mirrors into your bookcase styling is an easy way to add sophistication and personality to the space. Choose small framed artworks or photographs that resonate with your style and lean them against the back of the shelves. This works particularly well on deep shelves, where the artwork can be layered behind books and other decorative items.
Mirrors can be an unexpected and chic addition to a bookcase. A small mirror placed on a lower shelf can reflect light and create the illusion of more space while also adding an interesting design element. Mixing in artwork or mirrors breaks up the rows of books and objects, giving the bookcase a more curated and polished look.
7. Experiment with Negative Space
When styling a bookcase, it’s easy to fall into the trap of filling every inch of space. However, leaving some negative space—areas of the shelf that are intentionally left empty—can significantly impact the overall look.
Negative space provides breathing room for the eye and prevents the bookcase from appearing cluttered or overwhelming. It also highlights the items you choose to display, giving them more significance and allowing them to shine.
To achieve this look, avoid cramming too many books or objects onto one shelf. Instead, leave gaps where the bare shelf is visible. This creates a more modern and trendy aesthetic while making the overall design feel more intentional and less chaotic.
8. Opt for Statement Pieces
Finally, don’t be afraid to incorporate statement pieces into your bookcase styling. A bold, eye-catching object can act as a focal point, drawing attention to the shelf and elevating the entire look.
Statement pieces could include a unique sculpture, a striking vase, or an oversized decorative object. These items should stand out from the rest of the décor, serving as conversation starters and giving your bookcase a touch of sophistication. Just be mindful not to overdo it—one or two statement pieces per bookcase are usually enough to create a balanced and cohesive design.
Styling your bookcase is an opportunity to blend practicality with creativity, transforming a functional storage space into a stylish and personalised feature in your home. By experimenting with different arrangements, incorporating personal items, and playing with colour and height, you can achieve a trendy look that reflects your unique style.
Whether you’re a minimalist who prefers clean lines and negative space or someone who loves a more eclectic mix of objects and colours, these styling tips will help you create a bookcase that is not only functional but also a beautiful expression of your personality. Explore the stunning collection of handmade bookcases at Nest at Number 20 and get inspired to elevate your home decor!