Tips for Achieving a Stylish Bookcase

Last week I did a blog on 7 Ways I Made my Bedroom Feel Like a Luxurious Hotel Suite. However, when I was going through the photos that I wanted to add, I noticed that the one thing I hadn’t spent any time or effort on, was the the built in bookcase in my bedroom.

Seeing it in photos, really emphasized how truly naked and unappealing it was. The real kicker is that I actually brought items for the shelves months ago but I’ve been so consumed with holiday decorations, that I never got around to the bookcase.

I also wanted to take the time and use fabric to cover some books I purchased from Goodwill to add to the aesthetic. I thought that project would be too time consuming so I kept putting it off but honestly it only took me a couple of hours to complete and the look was beautiful.

Here are a few ideas to help you jazz up your bookcase or shelves a bit.

1. Use Varying Heights

I tried to use a high low effect on my bookcase, to keep the eye moving. Using various sizes also helps if you don’t want to overcrowd the shelves. It’ll help to make them look complete.

2. Allow the Items Included to Accent the Room 

My bedroom is my sanctuary and I really appreciate the poshness that rich neutrals and metallics provide. I used the bookcase to enhance the feel of the room. If your room needs a pop of color, this would also be the perfect place to add that.

3. Use Traditional Books in Quirky Ways

As I mentioned, I went to Goodwill and purchased 10 random books, that I intended to cover with fabric and use in various locations in my home. I was off to a rocky start because the satin material that I purchased at Joann’s was not as easy to work with as I thought but once I figured out a system, things went much smoother. I covered the books and added the gold details, also purchased at Joann’s. Total project cost was $40 which is a fraction of what you’ll pay for pretty coffee table and display books.  You could also face your books with the pages showing versus the binder. That gives a nice farmhouse feel.

4. Combine Style With Functionality 

Every night my husband and I end the night watching CNN or some other program. I always get a throw blanket and sit in the chair. The bottom shelves were the perfect place to store the throws when I’m done. I also made use of that decorative box that’s on one of the shelves by keeping incense and a lighter in it.

5. Have Fun

So many places in our home have dedicated items that belong there. Stools have to go at the counter, a lamp has to go on the side table. Shelves are your opportunity to mix it up and do what you want. Take advantage of that. Buy a weird chotsky or edgy bauble that wouldn’t have a home elsewhere like a middle finger or a tongue out sculpture, owww. Bottom line is, add what makes you feel good.

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I hope this helped you get started on your bookcase or rearrange it. Let me know what you’ve added to yours in the comments!