Book Shelf Decorating Ideas

Book shelf decorating ideas invites you to think bigger than the box. Book shelves are not just for books anymore. Book cases, books and the accessories they host is an instant warm up for any room.

With our interior decorating ideas you can dress-up and utilize your book shelves to their best potential.

You need to use the repitition of color, texture, and/or theme in your book shelf decorating to maintain a complimentary flow throughout your home.

Balance and scale will be applied to your shelves one shelf at a time to ultimately balance the entire book case. Your practiced use of accessory decorating will be utilized.

Tips and Ideas for Accessory Decorating

Here are a few interior decorating ideas and guidelines to take into account while reworking your bookshelves.

--Do not line up books in descending order it creates an uncomfortable formality.

--Do mix up your book storage. Stack them horizontally and use as bookends, alternate with standing them up, and even lean them casually like a just read favorite.

--Do adorn with frames, vases, bowls, baskets, or small boxes, but be sure to maintain continuity in your repitition of color, texture, and item selection to avoid a busy presentation.

--Be creative in your accessory decor, tip it over for a great bookend, tilt your bowls, fill them up, hang pearls or lace coming out of a small suitcase.

Book Shelf Decorating

Here are some ideas directed toward decorating the actual "bookcase" vs. "book shelf decorating."

--floor to ceiling book shelves makes a room feel taller and bigger This can be achieved with built-ins, tall book cases, or even the repetitive placement of individually hung shelves from top to bottom.

--for visual "POP" paint the inside back of your bookcase a contrasting color or wallpaper it in a coordintating motif with the rest of your room. The interest behind the books will force your items visually forward and make your display more prominant.

--paint, refinish, or age your bookcase to add character to your piece Your local hardware store has great books on these how-to projects.

--create a faux built-in bookcase take two basic coordinating bookcases connect the top with wood board and unify with molding to create a built in look.

--utilize decorative techniques for creative storage For instance a thin spring rod with a decorative curtain can conceal several shelves for discreet storage, and we have even used a roll shade attached to the bookcase that can be pulled down to conceal and roll up for easy access. These are great tricks for small spaces.

A decorated book shelf is a playground for your inner decorator. You can change the accessories with the seasons, occasions, or any whim you fancy. ENJOY!