The shelf trend has gained force once again as we style our bookshelves to become focal features of our homes. While the norm is to accumulate books vertically, the rise of the #shelfie has meant a mix of upright and horizontal arrangements are turning traditional into the more dynamic. This also involves grouping your classic novels by color, which will add interest to your shelf. You can style this is in a spectrum of shades, from red through to violet, or create little plinths in similar but graduated tones.
The kind of shelf you have is also crucial. For flexibility, modular units are famous for styling as they have many compartments to help you organize and order your items. We are talking about some tips on how to style the last bookshelves.
1. Layer up
Be mindful of size and height when styling in accents. Place larger pictures and vases towards the back then layer forward with photo frames and smaller accents at the front. Try arranging treasured keepsakes on top of your horizontally stacked books to add dimension to your shelf.
2. Quality over quantity
Beware of over-styling. The most charming vignettes offer a balance of space and interest, allowing each piece to pack its punch, so try only to include truly loved pieces, so your shelf doesn’t feel cluttered.
3. Light up
Adding lighting to your shelf is an excellent way to draw the eye, and you don’t need hidden electrical sources to power a little illumination. Try styling in battery operated LED letter lights in the initials of family parts for a personal yet affordable touch!
4. The quirk factor
It’s always helpful to add something unexpected or entertaining to the mix, so look out for humorous touches that give guests want to linger longer. The juxtaposition between the serious and the funny will add instant interest.
5. Au natural
To make a similar feature of your shelves, you could try adopting a specific theme. The hot trend is an excellent place to start. Try wallpapering the backboard of your shelves in a vibrant leaf design, then add extra natural elements such as potted plants and exciting pebbles. For a natural look, you could try adding book spines in neutral tones.
6. Art attack
Get creative and combine a few handmade items of art to add that all-important stamp of a life well-lived. From children’s paintings to beautifully framed ‘ five-minute sketches,’ authentic touches will take your shelfie from bland to beautiful in a flash.
7. Ladder up
If you live in a small home, a big bookshelf is an obvious no-go, but a narrow ladder shelf will allow you to create a fun shelfie without encroaching on too much precious square footage. You could also try floating shelves to make use of vertical space instead.