This post is all about bookshelf styling ideas!
I know that styling bookshelves can be intimidating – when you’re working with a blank canvas like an empty bookshelf, sometimes you just don’t know where to start. Bookshelves are a great place to show off your book collection and personal aesthetic and a well-styled bookshelf can elevate any room. That’s why it’s important to choose the right decor and style your books with intention.
Whether you have a built-in bookcase, a freestanding unit, or a few floating shelves, these bookshelf styling ideas will help you create a beautiful and cohesive display. Here are 22 creative ways to style your bookshelf!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
1. Line Your Bookshelf With Wallpaper
Lining your bookshelf with wallpaper is an easy way to add a pop of color and pattern to your space. Choose a wallpaper that complements your room’s decor and gives your bookshelf a unique backdrop.
Wallpaper can transform a plain bookshelf into a stunning statement piece. Not to mention it’s an easy and affordable way to add personality.
Styling Tips:
- Choose a wallpaper pattern that suits your style, whether it’s bold and vibrant or subtle and elegant.
- Measure the back panels of your bookshelf and cut the wallpaper to fit.
- Use double-sided tape or adhesive spray to secure the wallpaper in place.
2. Style With Different Potted Plants
Adding potted plants to your bookshelf can bring a touch of nature indoors and create a fresh, lively atmosphere. Mix different types of plants and pots to create an interesting display.
Plants add a natural element to your bookshelf, making it feel more inviting and alive. Plus, they can improve air quality and boost your mood.
Styling Tips:
- Choose a variety of plants and make sure they are getting adequate sunlight from on your bookshelf.
- Use pots in different sizes, colors, and textures for added visual interest.
- Arrange plants at different heights to make everything look more balanced.
3. Go For a Blue and White Coastal Vibe
A blue and white coastal theme can make your bookshelf feel like a serene seaside retreat. Use coastal-inspired decor and accessories to achieve this look. Blue and white colors are calming and timeless, perfect for creating a relaxed and airy atmosphere.
Styling Tips:
- Choose decor items in shades of blue and white, like vases, picture frames, and ceramics.
- Incorporate natural elements like seashells, driftwood, and coral.
- Use light, breezy fabrics and textures to enhance the coastal feel.
4. Add Some Colorful Accessories
Incorporating colorful accessories into your bookshelf styling can add vibrancy and personality to your space. Choose items that reflect your taste and complement your room’s color scheme.
Colorful accessories can brighten up your bookshelf and make it a focal point in the room. It’s a great way to showcase your personal style.
Styling Tips:
- Select accessories in a cohesive color palette to avoid a cluttered look.
- Mix and match different textures and materials for added depth.
- Arrange items in groups of odd numbers for a balanced and visually appealing display.
5. Integrate Lamps and Candles
Adding lamps and candles to your bookshelf can create a warm and inviting ambiance. They also provide additional lighting and can highlight your favorite books and decor items.
Lamps and candles add a cozy, intimate feel to your bookshelf. They can also be functional, providing extra light for reading.
Styling Tips:
- Choose lamps that match your room’s decor and fit the scale of your bookshelf.
- Use candles in different sizes and styles to create a layered look.
- Consider battery-operated candles for a safe and convenient option.
6. Install Sconces To A Built-In Bookshelf
Installing sconces to a built-in bookshelf can add a touch of elegance and provide focused lighting for your display. It’s a sophisticated way to highlight your favorite items.
Sconces add a decorative and functional element to your bookshelf. They can also help create a more cohesive and polished look.
Styling Tips:
- Choose sconces that complement your room’s style and color scheme.
- Install sconces at a height that provides adequate lighting without overwhelming the space.
- Use LED bulbs for energy efficiency and long-lasting illumination.
7. Style Small Groups of Accessories
Styling small groups of accessories can create a visually appealing and organized display on your bookshelf. Grouping items together helps to avoid a cluttered look and makes it easier to create a cohesive theme.
Grouping accessories allows you to create mini-vignettes that tell a story. It’s a fun way to showcase your favorite items.
Styling Tips:
- Group items in odd numbers, such as threes or fives, for a balanced look.
- Vary the height and size of the items in each group to create visual interest.
- Use a mix of textures and materials for added depth.
8. Go For a Black and White Color Scheme
A black and white color scheme can create a sleek and modern look on your bookshelf. This classic combination is timeless and versatile, making it easy to update and change as needed.
Black and white decor is elegant and sophisticated. It can create a striking contrast that draws attention to your bookshelf.
Styling Tips:
- Choose decor items in shades of black, white, and gray.
- Incorporate patterns, such as stripes or polka dots, for added visual interest.
- Use a mix of glossy and matte finishes to create depth and texture.
9. Add Vases of Fresh Flowers
Adding vases of fresh flowers to your bookshelf can bring a touch of nature and color to your space. Flowers can brighten up the room and make your bookshelf feel more inviting.
Fresh flowers add a natural and vibrant element to your bookshelf. They can also be easily changed to reflect the seasons or your mood.
Styling Tips:
- Choose flowers in colors that complement your room’s decor.
- Use vases in different sizes and styles for added interest.
- Change the flowers regularly to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
10. Embrace a Minimalist Boho Aesthetic
A minimalist boho aesthetic combines the simplicity of minimalist design with the relaxed, eclectic vibe of boho style. This look can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere on your bookshelf.
The minimalist boho style is both calming and visually interesting. It allows you to showcase your favorite items without feeling cluttered.
Styling Tips:
- Use a neutral color palette with pops of earthy tones.
- Incorporate natural materials, such as wood, rattan, and woven baskets.
- Add a mix of textures, such as stone, woven fabrics, and ceramics.
11. Add Pops of Gold
Incorporating pops of gold into your bookshelf styling can add a touch of glamour and sophistication. Gold accents can brighten up the space and create a luxurious feel.
Gold decor adds a chic and elegant touch to any space. It can make your bookshelf feel more polished and stylish.
Styling Tips:
- Choose gold decor items, such as picture frames, vases, and bookends.
- Use gold accents sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space.
- Pair gold with neutral colors for a balanced look.
12. Hang Framed Art On Your Bookshelf
Hanging framed art on your bookshelf can add a unique and artistic element to your display. It’s a great way to showcase your favorite pieces and add a personal touch.
Framed art can make your bookshelf feel more curated and intentional. It’s a fun way to incorporate your favorite artwork into your decor.
Styling Tips:
- Choose artwork that complements your room’s color scheme and style.
- Use a bold, interesting frame like a vintage or gold version.
- Arrange the art in a balanced and cohesive way.
13. Paint Your Bookshelf Navy
Painting your bookshelf navy can create a bold and dramatic look. Navy is a versatile color that can work with a variety of decor styles, from modern to traditional.
Navy adds a rich and sophisticated touch to your bookshelf. It can make your books and decor items stand out.
Styling Tips:
- Choose a high-quality paint for a smooth and even finish.
- Pair navy with gold, white, or natural wood accents for a balanced look.
- Use navy as a backdrop for colorful books and accessories.
14. Arrange Your Books By Color
Arranging your books by color can create a visually striking and organized look on your bookshelf. This method allows you to showcase your book collection in a fun and creative way.
Color-coordinated bookshelves are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It’s a great way to add a pop of color to your space.
Styling Tips:
- Sort your books by color, creating sections for each color or gradient.
- Arrange the books in a way that creates a smooth transition between colors.
- Pair the color-coordinated books with neutral or complementary decor items.
15. Add a Fun Camera As An Accessory
Using a fun camera as an accessory can add a quirky and nostalgic touch to your bookshelf. Vintage cameras or stylish modern ones can serve as interesting conversation pieces.
Cameras add a unique and personal element to your bookshelf. They can also reflect your interests and hobbies.
Styling Tips:
- Choose a camera that matches your room’s style and color scheme.
- Position the camera at eye level for maximum impact.
- Pair the camera with other vintage or photography-related items.
16. Display Your Chicest Books Facing Forward
Displaying your chicest books facing forward can highlight your favorite titles and create a visually appealing display. This method allows you to showcase beautiful covers and make a statement.
Facing books forward makes them easy to see and appreciate. It’s a great way to highlight special editions or particularly beautiful covers.
Styling Tips:
- Choose books with interesting or visually striking covers like this Tom Ford coffee table book.
- Use bookends or stands to keep the books in place.
- Pair the forward-facing books with complementary decor items.
17. Play With Mid-Century Accessories
Incorporating mid-century accessories into your bookshelf styling can create a retro and stylish look. Mid-century decor is known for its clean lines, bold colors, and functional design.
Mid-century accessories add a touch of vintage charm and sophistication. They can make your bookshelf feel more curated and intentional.
Styling Tips:
- Choose accessories with clean lines and geometric shapes.
- Use bold colors and natural materials, such as wood and metal.
- Pair mid-century items with modern decor for a balanced look.
18. Integrate Momentos From Your Travels
Displaying mementos from your travels can add a personal and meaningful touch to your bookshelf. It’s a great way to showcase your adventures and create a unique and eclectic display.
Travel mementos add a sense of adventure and wanderlust to your bookshelf. They can also serve as interesting conversation pieces.
Styling Tips:
- Choose items that are meaningful and visually appealing.
- Arrange the mementos in a way that tells a story or reflects your journey.
- Pair the travel items with complementary decor.
19. Choose Accessories With Personal Meaning
Using accessories with personal meaning can make your bookshelf feel more intimate and special. These items can reflect your personality, interests, and memories.
Personal accessories add a unique and sentimental touch to your bookshelf. They make the space feel more authentic and inviting.
Styling Tips:
- Choose items that have special significance or memories attached to them.
- Mix personal accessories with other decor items for a balanced display.
- Change the items periodically to keep the display fresh and interesting.
20. Hide Your Book Spines For a Cohesive Look
Hiding your book spines can create a clean and cohesive look on your bookshelf. This method involves turning the books around so that only the pages are visible.
Hiding book spines creates a uniform and minimalist look. It’s a great way to achieve a neutral and uncluttered display.
Styling Tips:
- Turn the books around so that only the pages are visible.
- Use bookends or stands to keep the books in place.
- Pair the hidden books with neutral or complementary decor items.
21. Try a Neutral Look
A neutral look can create a calm and serene atmosphere on your bookshelf. Using neutral colors and simple decor can make the space feel more open and airy. Neutral decor is timeless and versatile. It can create a clean and uncluttered look that’s easy to update.
Styling Tips:
- Choose decor items in shades of white, beige, gray, and other neutral colors.
- Use a mix of textures and materials for added interest.
- Keep the display simple and uncluttered for a minimalist look.
22. Go For a Dark Academia Vibe
A dark academia vibe can create a moody and intellectual atmosphere on your bookshelf. This style is characterized by dark colors, vintage decor, and a focus on literature and knowledge.
The dark academia style is both dramatic and sophisticated. It’s a great way to create a cozy and inspiring reading nook.
Styling Tips:
- Choose decor items in dark colors, such as black, navy, and burgundy.
- Incorporate vintage and antique items, such as old books, globes, and candles.
- Use rich textures and materials, such as leather, wood, and velvet.
I hope you enjoyed these bookshelf styling ideas! With the right inspiration, you can transform your shelves into beautiful and functional displays that reflect your personal style.
Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a more eclectic and vibrant display, there are plenty of options to suit your taste.
