As someone who grew up in a home that contained more than 1,000 books (yes, I counted them all one rainy afternoon), I believe that a book is more than just a pretty face. But I also think that books and the bookcases that hold them can add a great deal to the eye appeal of any room. In that spirit, find out how to style bookshelves attractively to form a fitting framework for your books and the words of wisdom, entertainment, and inspiration they hold.
Choose bookcases that will make the most of your rooms. For example, in a small living room or hallway, tall skinny bookshelves are recommended. They use the limited space most efficiently and also draw the eyes upward, distracting from its less-than-epic proportions. A pair of bookshelves will also work well to frame an outstanding architectural feature, such as an elegant fireplace or a magnificent view window.
Built-in bookshelves are especially handsome. They can serve to disguise an awkwardly shaped room, such as when your ceiling is not entirely level. Real custom carpentry, crafted from a lovely wood, gives the most luxurious feel. If you are the DIY type, though, you can mimic the custom look with flat-pack furniture like IKEA’s justly popular Billy bookcases.
Would you like to add your own personal touch to the bookcase you just bought? Or perhaps you want to repurpose a vintage thrift store find which is somewhat the worse for wear. In the latter case, start by taking a clearheaded look at the material your bookshelf is made from – you can always hope that it will turn out to be a high quality natural wood. If so, show it off by stripping and varnishing.
On the other hand, bookcases that are not in such good shape may benefit from a coat of paint. An attractive effect is to contrast the back wall with the rest of the piece. Paint, stencil, or line with your favorite scrapbook paper.
A well-known (inexpensive!) carpentry upgrade is replacing the old hardware with a more contemporary style, for a dazzling instant upgrade.
Your bookcases will have more esthetic appeal if you don’t cram the shelves with volumes. Intersperse the books with small displays of tchotchkes, pretty rocks, artwork, or photos; the uncrowded space will give a nice light, airy impression. Add a lively touch with a few potted plants.
Place a part of your book collection horizontally and the rest vertically to create an interesting contrast. This is a way to make a clear distinction between different subjects, too.
