Five Easy Steps to a Beautiful Bookshelf

Today I am sharing with you all my Five Easy Steps to a Beautiful Bookshelf.  Decorating bookshelves is really easier than you think, as an example, I am going to break down exactly what I did for the bookshelf unit in my office, but these steps can be applied to any bookshelf.

Step 1- Alternate groupings of books- for me, books are the most essential ingredient for a beautiful bookshelf…books look great and keep your shelves from looking like an accessory shop!  I like to stagger and alternate the groupings of books so they don’t wind up all on the same side.  (In this shelf I am using “backwards books” for a more unified look- but any books will do!)  Click HERE for a post I wrote all about the “backwards book trend”.

Step 2- Add a few large horizontal books-  I like to use large horizontal books as risers for larger accessories, also placing books horizontally breaks up all the vertical books.

Step 3- Add greenery- add a little “life” (literally) to your bookshelves with a few small houseplants/potted plants.  These can be real or faux but they will give your shelves a pop of color and help break up all the books.  I like to add a few pots of greenery and alternate the placement.

Step 4- Add framed art or photos- not every shelf needs books (though I think that the majority of your shelves should have books) why not display a small piece of framed art or favorite framed family photo, it will add a personal touch to your shelves.

Step 5- Add accessories- the last thing I add are accessories and collectibles.  Shelves are a great spot to display a collection of items, or souvenirs from favorite trips, or any grouping of pretty items.  Try to use accessories that “play well” with one another, or complement each other.

Other tips:

-Choose items that are similar in color and style- for my office bookshelves, everything I used was either black, white, natural or clear glass.  Also, everything had a somewhat “coastal” style- hurricanes, coral, etc…

-If you have open shelves with no cabinet doors, use natural baskets for attractive storage.

-Add a little “sparkle” to your shelves with metallic items in silver or gold and use some glass items.

I really hope these tips help you when decorating your own bookshelves.  Wishing everyone a wonderful week!

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