How to Style a Bookshelf Like You Know What You Are Doing

A bookshelf full of just books looks like a library. A bookshelf that is styled well looks like a personality. There is a formula to it and once you know it, you will look at every shelf differently.

Here is exactly how I approach it every time.

Edit First, Style Second

Take everything off the shelf. Then put back only the things you actually like. Most bookshelves are over-stuffed with books you will never read again and objects that have been there so long you stopped seeing them. Edit ruthlessly. You want to fill about two thirds of the space and leave one third as breathing room.

Mix Vertical and Horizontal Books

A shelf of all vertical books looks like a library. Lay some stacks of two or three books horizontally to create variety in height and to give yourself risers for objects on top. This is the foundational move of every well-styled shelf.

Add Objects at Different Heights

Every shelf needs variety in height. A short candle next to a tall vase. A small plant next to a stack of books. A sculptural object on top of a horizontal book stack. The variation is what makes it look curated rather than just stored. CB2 through ShopMy has beautiful decorative objects for this. Decorative bookends and objects on Amazon.

Bring in Texture

A small woven basket, a ceramic vase, a natural stone object. Texture breaks up the flatness of books and paper and adds depth. I always make sure at least two textures are represented on a shelf. Small woven baskets for shelves on Amazon.

Add One Plant Per Shelf

A small trailing plant or a succulent on each shelf adds life and a softness that decor objects alone cannot replicate. Pothos, ivy, or a simple succulent all work well. Small plants for shelves on Amazon.

Use Bookends

Bookends serve a practical function but they are also a styling opportunity. A pair of interesting bookends anchors the books and adds a design element. Look for something sculptural, a geometric shape, an animal form, a natural stone. Decorative bookends on Amazon.

Step Back and Edit Again

Once you have everything arranged, step back and look at it from across the room. Remove one thing from each shelf. Then adjust until it feels right. A shelf that looks great in person usually needs to have even less on it than you think.

Styling a bookshelf is one of those things where you will start and not be able to stop until it is right. Tell me in the comments if you try this and how it goes.

xo, Pam

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