Whether the weather is chilly or you're sitting on the beach, it's never a bad time to open up a great book. As your collection grows, you need a place to exhibit all your books. However, even so, a bookshelf can be used for more than just storing books---you can decorate it, too! Let's delve into all things bookshelves. You'll know how to spruce up your bookshelf by the end.
Create a focal point
If you don't have enough books to fill up your entire bookshelf yet, add other things to your shelf like framed art. To ensure your shelf doesn't look sloppy pick one piece of art that stands out and make it your shelf's focal point. Put this artwork---or this other unique décor item---near the middle of the shelf, at eye level. This way, your guests will be directed to a focal point when looking at your shelf.
Think about balance
If you have several tall books, make sure they're evenly distributed in comparison to the short books on your shelf. However, if you do decide to cluster your tall books together, balance this out by putting a tall piece of décor with your shorter books. Think about spacing---this goes hand in hand with picking out a focal point.
Colour is important
What's more visually appealing than a colour-coordinated bookshelf? Try to organize your books by colour, and if you don't like the colours of some of your books, you could always create a DIY book cover. You could use a neutral paper to cover your books or a brighter paper. Of course, even if you don't colour coordinate your books perfectly in 'rainbow order,' think about how the colours look as you situate your books on your shelf.
Put décor on your shelf
We've hinted at how important it is to put décor on your bookshelf, but let's be clear: it's super trendy to adorn your bookshelf with décor. You might choose to put this unique Resin Statuette on your shelf, or this Blue Patterned Decorative Jar. Find décor that speaks to you and your unique aesthetic and decorate accordingly. Also, remember that bookends are great décor, too.
Go green with plants
Plants can be incorporated indoors, and there's no better place to put a cactus or an easy-to-maintain plant than on a bookshelf. Always keep in mind how much light your bookshelf will get if you decide to put live plants on it. If you're living in a spot that doesn't get much natural sunlight, these houseplants might be great additions to your shelf. If you are thinking that it's too hard to keep up with live plants (which we completely understand) artificial plants are great options because they're easy to care for; these artificial plants are sure to please.
Make your shelf your own
While adding art and décor is one way to express yourself, you could also add family photographs, sentimental items, and other keepsakes to your bookshelf. When you add items that remind you of your family and friends, your bookshelf will be that much more personal. Plus, when your friends and family come to your home, they'll be excited to see you've included them in your space.
Keep things fresh and clean
Just because you decorate your bookshelf once doesn't mean that the upkeep is over forever. When the holidays come around, you could put out pumpkin décor, snowflake décor, Valentine's Day décor, and other seasonal decorations. Get creative and festive when necessary! In addition, bookshelves can be maximalist but be aware that sometimes shelves can look cluttered. To avoid this, try to avoid overcrowding. You don't have to cram everything onto one shelf. Try purchasing a few shelves---like this one, or this one. And always keep your shelves dusted and clean.
