Shelves and bookcases are a great way to add visual interest, create storage space and show off your favorite books, décor, and collectibles. But decorating them can be a bit of a daunting task.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the options and end up with cluttered or disjointed shelves. But fear not – we’ve got some simple formulas that will help you create cohesive, stylish, and functional shelves and bookcases in no time!
Contents
Start with a Clean Slate
Before you begin decorating your shelves, it’s important to clear them of all items, giving you a clean slate to work with. Once that’s done, think about the overall look you’re going for and choose a color scheme that will complement your space.
Soft neutrals like white, beige, and gray work well for a minimalist look while pops of bright colors can add energy and playfulness to a more eclectic or bohemian style.
Mix Different Heights, Shapes, and Sizes
Visual interest is created when you mix different heights, shapes, and sizes of items. Use books to add height and create vertical interest. Stack books horizontally or vertically, using them as platforms for other décor items. Place large, statement pieces like vases, candles, or art pieces, near the center of shelves or at eye level for maximum impact.
Group Items in Odd Numbers
The human eye tends to prefer odd-numbered groupings, so try to use 3, 5, or 7 items together to create cohesive groupings. In addition to balancing the visual weight, grouping items can help create a sense of purpose.
For example, you could group together picture frames and small plants or display a statue with a stack of books and a unique vase to create an aesthetically pleasing grouping.
Use Negative Space
Negative space refers to the empty space around an item, and is just as important as the item itself. To create balance and flow, use negative space by grouping items and leaving some space between them. Mix different shapes and sizes of objects and leave spaces for the eye to rest instead of cramming all of your items onto each shelf.
Add Personal Touches
Finally, don’t be afraid to add personal touches to your shelves to make them feel uniquely yours. Add some souvenirs from your travels or family heirlooms that tell your story.
Mix different textures, like wood, metal, or glass, or incorporate some plants to add some life to your space. These personal touches help to make your shelves bookcases not just aesthetically pleasing, but also meaningful to you.
Conclusion
By following these simple formulas, you can create shelves and bookcases that are stylish, functional, and reflect your style.
Remember to start with a clean slate, choose a cohesive color scheme, mix different shapes and sizes of items, group items in odd numbers, use negative space, and add personal touches to make your space your own.
Decorating shelves and bookcases can be a fun and rewarding process and with these tips you can create a look that will impress you every time you see it.