Today I’m sharing simple, step-by-step instructions on how to style a built-in bookcase!
I want to mention before we get started that I have an entire wall of bookshelves, so that’s obviously what I will be sharing below.
However, these steps work for any size shelf or bookcase!
If you have a smaller shelf to decorate you will just use fewer items!
But the steps remain the same!
I also want to mention that I keep all of our reading books behind closed doors. This definitely doesn’t have to be the case! If you want to display your books, Room For Tuesday has a great blog post to read.
(You can find sources for everything I’m sharing below at the bottom of my post!)
Let’s get to it!
1. Start with an empty shelf
Unless of course, you have a sleeping kitty. In that case, go ahead and leave her 😉
I always remove everything from my shelves, even if I know it will be going back on the shelf! I find it easiest to start with a clean slate.
2. add artwork & personal photos
This is my favorite way to add seasonal touches and color to my shelves! For spring, I bring in more spring-inspired art prints, for fall, fall-inspired, etc.
You can see my favorite spring artwork in these 2 blog posts: My New Spring Artwork Is Perfect For Any Room and The Best Artwork For Spring.
You can read all about my favorite places to buy/print artwork in this blog post: The Best Places To Buy Artwork Online
And you can shop for artwork and frames I love here.
3. Add books
Next, I add books. I like to place them vertically as well as horizontally throughout the shelves.
You can find all of my favorite decorative books here.
As I mentioned above, we keep all of our reading books in the section of the bookshelf that has doors. You definitely do not need to do the same! I linked a blog post above that will help with this if you are interested!
4. Layer in large objects
For larger items think vases, pots, baskets, and decorative boxes. As you can see above, a little goes a long way with the larger objects! You definitely don’t need a lot of them.
You can shop for some of my favorite pots and vases here.
5. Layer in smaller objects
Next, I layer in smaller objects. Think of small vases, candles, bowls, small baskets, little pots, etc.
As you can see from the above photo, I use them in various ways.
I like to add them as book toppers or bookends. Or style them next to a larger object.
You can shop some of my favorite decorative objects here.
6. Add flowers and/or greenery
The last thing I do is add in fresh or faux flowers & greenery!
Add flowers to a small vase that you are using as a bookend. Or, add faux greenery to a large or small vase or pot.
Depending on the season, I definitely like to do it both ways!
You can shop for some of my favorite faux greenery and flowers here.
the finished bookcase
You can shop my bookshelves on my LTK page here.
You can shop for home decor perfect for styling your shelves here.
MORE INSPIRATION FROM THE SOMMER HOME:
My Favorite Target Home Decor And How To Style It
Update Your Shelves With Some New Artwork
6 Ways To Display Artwork In Your Home
Winter Artwork I’m Keeping Up After Christmas
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