Today’s post is written by Lauren Patterson.
More and more it seems these days, bookcases and built-in cabinets are being styled in wonderfully artistic ways. Back when built-ins solely served a functional purpose, styling a bookcase basically involved throwing some books on a shelf and hoping it worked. Old awards and every school portrait you ever had taken (even during those awkward teen years) would be displayed with no rhyme or reason. In return, those objects that were important became the clutter of one’s home instead of collectibles that could tell a pleasing story. Thankfully though, dressing up bookshelves has made a comeback. Here are some of our favorites:
A pop of color goes a long way. Image via: getitgirlstyle.com
Add a light to your bookshelves. Image via isuwannee.com
When gathering books for your shelves, keep in mind that you do not have to go out and buy a lot of expensive coffee table books. They can easily set you back $50 a book and drain your budget quickly. Instead, take advantage of thrift stores, garage sales, or used bookstores. And remember, if you have any books with ugly covers, try taking the cover off and see what’s on the inside. Often the actual book is much more appealing than the outside cover.
I love the depth added by leaning the artwork against the books in this bookshelf. Adding lighting can also help showcase some of your most unique possessions and allows the books be the backdrop. Image via thezhush.blogspot.com
To keep the shelves looking uncluttered, it helps to stack books both vertically and horizontally. This gives the space a little more dimension and keeps everything from looking so uniform. Having books stacked horizontally provides display space for those smaller objects. Love everything about this bookshelf. Image via mauriceandking.blogspot.com
Don’t forget about those shelves in your bathroom. To create more space elsewhere, utilize open space on your shelves with baskets. For bathroom shelving, you can store toilet paper, toiletries, towels and many other necessities in a pretty and organized way, without using up closet space. Image via Lizmarieblog.com
No books? Use magazines. Image via myoldcountryhouse.com
Add wallpaper to the back of the shelves for a dramatic look. Image via labellevie.tumblr.com
Another trend with built-ins is painting the back of the shelves a contrasting color. This is a great way to add more color to the room and helps your accessories really stand out. Just remember to use a paint that is a couple of shades darker than the room color. If you are really brave, you could paint the entire built-in a separate color or even add some great pattern with wallpaper.
A cheerful option. Image via Dominomag.com
A great mixture of toys, books and artwork. Image via houzz.com
Beautiful color scheme via littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com
For maximum pop, include solid color accessories, such as a vase or bowl. Image via bellemaison23.com
Love the unexpected detail that the mirror brings. Image via apartmenttherapy.com
Obsessed with the collection of old hammered metal tops. Image via inspiracionline.blogspot.com
Image via YHL
Prettiest linen shelf ever. Image via crushculdesac.tumblr.com
It is always a good idea to mix textures, sizes and shapes on a bookshelf, but try to stick with a similar theme and shelve items by types. Image via delightbydesign.blogspot.com
image via maddieruns.com
“Real” homes!
Although I love all the glossy magazine shots, see how some friends have styled their bookcases in the next few photos. They make this look so easy – and really, it is.
Love all of the accessories that Emily is able to utilize without it looking too busy.
A great way to display all those manly things without having them all over your house.
Lindsey does a great job of mixing rustic charm with modern chic.
A wall bookshelf allows you to showcase your prettiest pieces without your little one getting their hands on them.
No longer do your book shelves need to be boring and lifeless. As you can see, sprucing up those shelves is simple to achieve by using your favorite things around the house. Get rid of the trophy-filled shelves and grab whatever inspires you – everything from baskets, vases, artwork and lamps, to plants, architectural pieces, mirrors and pottery – and a give your built-ins a makeover.
