How do I Style Bookshelves?
Bookshelves are one of our favourite design features. More than simply providing storage, they offer an opportunity to layer a room with personality, warmth, and a sense of history. Whether built-in or freestanding, a purposely styled bookshelf can become a focal point, showcasing treasured books, collected objects, artwork, and special pieces that tell the story of the people who call the space home. So why is it so hard to know how to decorate your shelves? It’s because you have to make dozens of small decisions all at once! And the challenge lies in that there isn’t one correct answer!
Which books do I display?
Display only what you love! Bookshelves are personal and should display what you’ve actually read or intend to read. You may consider displaying books specific to your region, or perhaps around a certain hobby or interest you have. This is an ideal way to make your shelves about your personal story.
Should I organize by colour?
It doesn’t have to go by colour as there are no rules. However, if you are telling a design story, you may decide that some items belong colour grouped. You still need variation in height and scale, so colour is just one component. Books of every colour can feel nicely composed because the proportions, spacing, and objects are working together. You are more likely to end up with a bookshelf with personality.
How many objects are too many?
There is power in what you leave out! Not everything will make it onto the shelf display! Don’t get caught up in that it has to feel designer. Weight and repetition can help you sort through what goes where. Having a pause in the display allows things to be noticed, and some items deserve to stand alone.
Does everything have to match?
No! Think about the story you want to tell. Is it one of travel? Have you collected items about a certain sport or a pastime? Perhaps family heirlooms or a mixture of all the above? Your arrangement can be a reflection of how you live and your lifestyle. Not everything has to be in the same theme or match. In fact, that’s what makes your story unique through display. Your items will be one-of-a-kind, and it’s all in the way you build the layers.
Why does mine look cluttered?
Too many small objects grouped together can make it appear cluttered. You may consider replacing some of the smaller items with a larger vase or stack of books for variety and scale. Everything lined up perfectly can also come across as cluttered. Instead use different heights, lean artwork, overlap items and find other ways to create variation and remember not every space has to be filled!
Why do the shelves in magazines look effortless?
Often, you are referring to images of professionally installed and organized vignettes! These serve an entirely different purpose than what you are accomplishing in your home or cottage. Keep that in mind! You don’t need custom millwork, you don’t need museum-quality spacing, and your items are treasures and heirlooms vs sourced items for a photo shoot!
What if I get it wrong?
Bookshelves are forgiving! There isn’t one perfect arrangement waiting to be found. It feels personal to have your items on display, but stepping back and experimenting with the process will allow your version to become authentic. It’s a process of discovery!
The truth is, styling a bookshelf isn't about filling empty space. It's about editing, creating rhythm, and telling a story. Once you understand that shift in perspective, the process becomes far less intimidating and much more enjoyable. If you get really stuck, you can visit our studio and sign up for our Room Refresh service. Using images and photos, we can help you style your shelves. We can even visit on-site and provide this service in the context of your space. Either way, we offer sound advice and are confident we can help you discover your best design foot forward!
Learn more about our services, specifically the Room Refresh service, which may be of help to you for styling shelves, a guest room or anywhere else in your home or cottage: https://www.homebytc.ca/home#services
Some of our projects that may inspire you: https://www.homebytc.ca/projects
If you have a design question you would like to submit for the next Town Crier issue, you can send it to the Home by Tim + Chris design team at: info@homebytc.ca
Sign up on our website for our monthly eNewsletter, Lakeside Notes, featuring all things art and design. We can keep you informed of our favourite local picks, what’s new at The Grove Theatre and other events across the Kawarthas.
Tim + Chris
