How To Decorate Large Bookshelves

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Bookshelves are not just practical storage solutions; they also provide an opportunity to showcase your personal style and add a touch of sophistication to any space. Whether you have a small collection of novels or an extensive library, decorating large bookshelves can be a fun and creative project. By following a few simple tips and tricks, you can transform your bookshelves into a visually appealing and organized focal point in your home or office.

When it comes to decorating large bookshelves, the key is to strike a balance between form and function. You want your shelves to be aesthetically pleasing while still allowing for easy access to your books. Additionally, incorporating decorative objects and personal touches can help add visual interest and make your bookshelves feel more personalized.

In this article, we will explore various strategies for decorating large bookshelves. From choosing the right bookshelves to arranging books by theme or color, you’ll discover practical tips and creative ideas to help you create a stunning display that reflects your style and personality.

Choosing the Right Bookshelves

Before you begin decorating your bookshelves, it’s important to choose the right bookshelves that not only fit your space but also complement the overall design of the room. Here are a few things to consider when selecting bookshelves:

1. Size and Scale: Measure the available space where you plan to place your bookshelves. Consider the height, width, and depth of the shelves to ensure they fit perfectly into the designated area. Large bookshelves can make a bold statement, but be mindful not to overwhelm the room with oversized furniture.
2. Material and Style: Determine the material and style that best suits your existing décor. If you have a modern aesthetic, sleek and minimalist bookshelves made of materials like wood or metal might be the perfect fit. For a more traditional look, opt for bookshelves with intricate detailing and warm wood finishes.
3. Open or Closed: Decide whether you prefer open or closed bookshelves. Open bookshelves are great for displaying books and visually interesting objects, while closed bookshelves offer hidden storage and can keep your collection protected from dust.
4. Adjustable Shelves: Consider bookshelves with adjustable shelves to accommodate books of varying sizes. This will provide flexibility and allow you to customize the spacing between shelves.

By carefully selecting the right bookshelves, you can set the foundation for a beautifully organized and visually appealing display. Once you have chosen the perfect bookshelves, it’s time to move onto the next step: assessing the space.

Assessing the Space

Before you start arranging your books and decorative objects on your bookshelves, it’s essential to assess the space and plan your layout. Here are a few factors to consider:

1. Height and Width: Take note of the height and width of the bookshelves, as well as the spacing between each shelf. This will help you determine how many books and decorative items you can fit on each shelf and ensure that everything looks balanced.
2. Room Function: Consider the function of the room where the bookshelves are located. Is it a home office, a living room, or a bedroom? This will influence the overall style and theme you want to achieve with your bookshelf display.
3. Color Palette: Take note of the existing color palette in the room and consider how you can incorporate it into your bookshelf display. You can choose to complement the colors or create a contrasting look for added visual interest.
4. Existing Decor: Assess the décor elements in the room and try to incorporate them into your bookshelf display. This will create a cohesive look that ties the entire space together.

By assessing the space and understanding its unique characteristics, you can create a bookshelf display that effortlessly blends into the room’s overall design.

Once you have assessed the space, it’s time to move onto sorting and organizing your books.

Sorting and Organizing Books

Sorting and organizing your books is a crucial step in creating an aesthetically pleasing bookshelf display. Here are some tips to help you efficiently sort and organize your books:

1. Purge and Declutter: Before you start organizing, go through your book collection and remove any books you no longer need or want. This will help declutter your shelves and create space for new additions.
2. Categorize by Genre or Topic: Group your books into categories based on genre or topic. This will make it easier to find specific books when you need them and create a more organized and visually pleasing display.
3. Consider Alphabetical or Author Order: If you prefer a more traditional approach, consider organizing your books alphabetically by title or author’s last name. This method is not only practical but also adds a sense of order and structure.
4. Utilize Bookends: Use bookends to divide sections and create visual breaks within your bookshelf display. This will help prevent books from leaning or falling over and add a touch of style to your shelves.
5. Vary Book Orientation: To add visual interest to your bookshelf, alternate the orientation of some books. Instead of having all books standing upright, lay some horizontally to create depth and display decorative objects on top.

Organizing your books in a thoughtful and deliberate manner will not only make it easier to find your favorite titles but also enhance the overall visual appeal of your bookshelf display. Once your books are neatly organized, it’s time to incorporate decorative objects.

Incorporating Decorative Objects

Decorative objects are a fantastic way to add personality and visual interest to your bookshelf display. They can break up the monotony of rows of books and bring a sense of balance and style to the overall design. Here are some ideas for incorporating decorative objects:

1. Sculptures and Figurines: Place small sculptures or figurines strategically on your bookshelves. They can be made of various materials such as ceramic, glass, or metal, and can be found in different sizes and shapes to suit your preferences and room’s aesthetic.
2. Vases and Flower Arrangements: Add a touch of nature by placing vases with fresh flowers or faux floral arrangements on your bookshelves. Choose flowers that complement the color scheme of the room or the books on the shelf.
3. Picture Frames: Display framed photographs or art prints on your bookshelves. This adds a personal touch and allows you to showcase cherished memories or favorite artwork.
4. Candles and Candleholders: Incorporate candles and candleholders to create a warm and cozy ambiance. Choose scented candles to infuse the space with pleasant fragrances.
5. Bookends: Bookends not only serve a functional purpose but can also be decorative items themselves. Opt for bookends in unique shapes or made of interesting materials to add a stylish touch to your bookshelf display.
6. Trinkets and Collectibles: Showcase small trinkets or collectibles that hold sentimental value or reflect your personality. They can be items from your travels, vintage pieces, or whimsical objects that spark joy.

When incorporating decorative objects, remember not to overcrowd the shelves. Leave some open spaces to create a sense of balance and allow your books and decor to shine. Experiment with different combinations and placements until you achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look.

Next, let’s explore how storage bins and baskets can help enhance your bookshelf display.

Utilizing Storage Bins and Baskets

Storage bins and baskets serve a dual purpose in bookshelf decoration: they provide a practical solution for organizing items and can add texture and visual interest to your display. Here are some tips for utilizing storage bins and baskets on your bookshelves:

1. Choose the Right Size: Select storage bins and baskets that fit comfortably on your shelves without overcrowding them. Measure your shelves beforehand to ensure a proper fit.
2. Coordinate Colors and Materials: Opt for storage bins and baskets that complement the overall color scheme and style of your bookshelf display. Coordinating colors and materials will create a cohesive and visually pleasing look.
3. Categorize Items: Use storage bins and baskets to group and store smaller items such as stationery, remote controls, or electronic devices. This will help keep your shelves clutter-free and organized.
4. Showcase Unique Baskets: Look for baskets with interesting textures, patterns, or woven designs to add visual interest to your shelves. These unique baskets can stand out as decorative elements while still serving a functional purpose.
5. Stacked Storage: If you have a large collection of magazines or small books, stack them neatly in a storage bin or basket. This not only keeps them organized but also adds depth and dimension to your bookshelf display.
6. Labeling: Use labels or tags on your storage bins and baskets for easy identification. This will make it simple to locate specific items and maintain an organized and visually appealing bookshelf display.

Utilizing storage bins and baskets can help create a tidy and organized appearance on your bookshelves. By finding the right balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, you can enhance the overall look and feel of your bookshelf display. Next, let’s explore how to arrange your books by theme or color.

When decorating large bookshelves, use a mix of books, decorative objects, and plants to create visual interest and balance. Vary the height and color of items for a more dynamic look.

Arranging Books by Theme or Color

Arranging your books by theme or color is a great way to create an eye-catching and visually appealing bookshelf display. Here are some techniques for arranging your books:

1. By Theme: Group your books together based on common themes or genres. This could include categories such as fiction, non-fiction, biographies, self-help, or any other themes that are relevant to your collection. This method allows for easy browsing and adds a sense of organization to your shelves.
2. By Color: Arrange your books in a color gradient, going from light to dark or vice versa. This creates a striking visual effect and can serve as a unique focal point in the room. You can also choose to arrange books in specific color combinations, such as incorporating a rainbow pattern or sticking to a monochromatic scheme.
3. By Size: If you have books of varying sizes, consider arranging them by size to create a sense of order. This can involve placing larger books on the bottom shelves and gradually transitioning to smaller books towards the top. Alternatively, you can intersperse larger and smaller books throughout the shelves to create a dynamic and visually interesting arrangement.
4. By Author: For book lovers who are passionate about specific authors, consider arranging your books by author’s last name. This approach creates a cohesive and organized look, particularly if you have a substantial collection of books from a particular author.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to arrange your books. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the look you want to achieve. Feel free to experiment with different methods and arrangements to find what works best for you and your bookshelf display.

Now that we’ve covered arranging books, let’s explore how to add personal touches to your bookshelf display.

Adding Personal Touches

To make your bookshelf display truly unique and reflective of your personality, it’s important to incorporate personal touches. Here are some ideas to add a personal flair to your bookshelves:

1. Showcasing Mementos: Display items that hold sentimental value, such as travel souvenirs, family heirlooms, or meaningful trinkets. These items add a personal touch and spark conversations when guests browse your bookshelf.
2. Custom Bookplates: Consider adding custom bookplates to your favorite books. These can feature your name, a personal logo, or an illustration that represents your interests or hobbies.
3. Personalized Book Covers: Create custom book covers for your favorite novels or non-fiction books. You can design your own book covers or use printable templates available online. This not only protects your books but also adds a touch of personalization to your bookshelf.
4. Incorporating Hobby Items: If you have a particular hobby or interest, showcase related items on your bookshelf. For example, if you’re a music lover, display vinyl records or musical instruments. If you enjoy photography, showcase your favorite cameras or framed photographs.
5. Displaying Awards or Certificates: If you have received awards or certificates for achievements, consider framing and displaying them on your bookshelves. This adds a sense of pride and accomplishment and adds a personal touch to the display.
6. Framed Quotes or Inspirational Words: Choose your favorite inspirational quotes or words and frame them. Place the frames on your bookshelves to not only personalize the space but also add a touch of motivation and positivity to your daily life.

Adding personal touches to your bookshelf display helps to create a space that truly reflects who you are. By incorporating meaningful items and personalizing your books, you can infuse your unique style and personality into the overall design.

Now, let’s explore how incorporating artwork or plants can enhance the aesthetics of your bookshelf display.

Incorporating Artwork or Plants

To elevate the aesthetics of your bookshelf display, consider incorporating artwork or plants. Here are some ideas on how to do so:

1. Artwork: Hang small pieces of artwork on the front or sides of your bookshelves. These can be paintings, photographs, or prints that complement the overall theme or color scheme of your space.
2. Bookshelf Backing: Consider adding a pop of color or pattern to the back of your bookshelves. This can be achieved by painting the back panels or using adhesive wallpaper or fabric. This backdrop will make your books and decorative items stand out and add visual interest.
3. Book Jackets as Art: If you have books with intricate or visually appealing book jackets, use them as artistic accents on your bookshelf. Prop them up against the books or hang them on the side panels to create a gallery-like effect.
4. Plants: Adding plants to your bookshelf display can bring life and freshness to the space. Choose small potted plants or succulents that thrive indoors and don’t require excessive maintenance. Make sure to consider the lighting conditions in the room and choose plants accordingly.
5. Hanging Planters: If space permits, hang small planters from the top of your bookshelves. This adds vertical interest and allows you to incorporate greenery even if your bookshelf surface is limited.
6. Terrariums: Create mini-gardens within glass terrariums and place them on your bookshelves. These enclosed ecosystems can add a unique and visually intriguing element to your display.

Incorporating artwork or plants not only enhances the aesthetics of your bookshelf display but also brings nature and creativity into the space. Experiment with different placements and combinations to find the right balance and achieve a visually pleasing arrangement.

Lastly, let’s explore the importance of creating a balanced and symmetrical look for your bookshelf display.

Creating a Balanced and Symmetrical Look

Creating a balanced and symmetrical look is key to achieving a visually pleasing bookshelf display. This involves distributing the visual weight of objects evenly across the shelves. Here are some tips to help you achieve balance and symmetry:

1. Equal Distribution: Arrange books and decorative items in a way that evenly distributes their visual weight across the shelves. Avoid clustering items together in one area, as this can create an unbalanced look.
2. Mirroring: Create symmetry by mirroring objects on opposite sides of the shelves. For example, place identical bookends or matching decorative items on both ends to achieve a visually balanced display.
3. Height Variation: Play with the height of objects on the shelves to create visual interest. Mix tall items, such as vases or sculptures, with shorter decorative objects or books. This height variation adds depth and makes the display visually appealing.
4. Color Placement: Consider the placement of colors on your bookshelves to create balance. Distribute colors evenly across the shelves or arrange them in a way that is visually pleasing. For example, alternate colorful spines with neutral tones for a balanced and harmonious look.
5. Symmetrical Book Spacing: Maintain consistent spacing between books to create a sense of uniformity. Align the edges of books and keep them at the same distance from the edge of the shelves to achieve a visually pleasing symmetry.
6. Center Focal Point: Create a focal point on your bookshelf display by placing a standout item in the center. This could be a piece of artwork, a unique decorative object, or a collection of books with vibrant spines. Placing the focal point in the center grounds the display and helps maintain balance.

By paying attention to the distribution of objects, height variation, color placement, and focal points, you can achieve a beautifully balanced and symmetrical bookshelf display that is visually pleasing to the eye and creates a harmonious atmosphere in the room.

Now that we have explored various strategies for decorating large bookshelves, it’s time to put these tips into practice and create your own stunning bookshelf display. Remember to let your personal style shine through and have fun as you curate a space that not only showcases your love for books but also reflects your unique personality.

Happy decorating!

Final Thoughts

Decorating large bookshelves is not just about organizing books; it’s an opportunity to create a visually stunning display that showcases your personal style and adds personality to your space. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can transform your bookshelves into a captivating focal point that enhances the overall aesthetics of your home or office.

Remember to choose the right bookshelves that fit the space and complement the room’s design. Assess the space to plan your layout and consider sorting and organizing your books by theme or color for a visually pleasing arrangement. Incorporate decorative objects to add visual interest, and use storage bins and baskets to maintain a tidy and organized appearance.

Adding personal touches such as mementos, custom book covers, or hobby items infuses your bookshelf display with a sense of uniqueness and reflects your individuality. Incorporating artwork or plants brings life and creativity to the space, while creating a balanced and symmetrical look ensures visual harmony and balance.

As you embark on your bookshelf decoration journey, remember to have fun and let your creativity guide you. Experiment with different arrangements, colors, and objects to find what resonates with you personally. The most important aspect of decorating large bookshelves is to create a space that brings you joy and reflects your love for literature and design.

So, go ahead and start transforming your bookshelves into a captivating display that will not only impress your guests but also bring you a sense of pride and satisfaction every time you gaze upon it. Happy decorating!