Bookshelves are no longer just for books. These days, they serve as both functional storage and decorative displays, making them one of the most versatile and personalized pieces in a home. Whether you have a built-in unit, floating shelves, or a standalone bookcase, learning how to style a bookshelf is an easy way to elevate your space and showcase your personality. In this post, you will find a practical guide on how to style a bookshelf that blends form and function seamlessly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Style A Bookshelf
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to help you style your bookshelves beautifully and with intention.
Step 1: Start With a Blank Slate
Clear everything off your bookshelf first. This gives you a clean canvas to work with and allows you to be intentional with each item you add back.
Step 2: Anchor the Shelf with Books
This may seem like a no-brainer; however, it is important to use your books as the foundation. Mix stacking books horizontally and vertically to create structure and interest. A lot of books can be styled in a way that still feels curated and balanced. I personally like to take the dust covers off of my books and style them in groups by color and size. However, one way I keep my unread books organized by keeping their jackets on, so there is a bit of an assortment in my current styling.
Step 3: Layer in Decorative Items
Once books are placed, layer in objects like vases, bowls, sculptures, or candles. These help break up blocks of books and introduce texture. Consider items with varying heights and materials for added depth. Some of my personal favorite pieces include unique candlesticks, flameless candles, and feathery pieces in vases for added texture. I also incorporate faux flowers based on the season and use thrifted corbels as bookends.
Step 4: Use Art or Framed Photos
Small pieces of art or personal photographs create warmth and dimension. Try leaning a framed piece behind a stack of books or anchoring a shelf with a larger canvas. I really love the prints from Rifle Paper and from Erisha on Etsy.
Step 5: Incorporate Natural Elements
Bring in life with small plants, dried botanicals, or fresh flowers. Natural elements soften the look and keep the shelf from feeling too stiff. Some of my personal favorite faux flower pieces are these tulips or this listing has quite a few different options and color varieties. I also love this greenery and have it in a few rooms in our home.
Step 6: Balance Asymmetrically
Avoid overly symmetrical shelves. Instead, aim for a balanced mix across all shelves—if one shelf is book-heavy, keep the next one lighter with art and objects.
Step 7: Step Back and Edit
Take a step back and look at the overall layout. Spread out your colors and shapes to maintain balance. If something feels too busy or too sparse, adjust until it feels right.
What To Put On A Bookshelf As Decor
Books
The obvious choice! Use books both vertically and in horizontal stacks. Remove paper jackets for a cleaner look or turn spines inward for a neutral color palette. There is no such thing as too many books, and I love being able to layer them or change them out whenever freshening up the space. If you need help building your book collection, check out Book of the Month! This subscription is one of my favorites and how I have been able to affordably build up my personal library.
Vases
Whether ceramic, glass, or metal, vases are perfect bookshelf styling tools. You can leave them empty, fill them with dried florals, or use them to add a pop of color.
Framed Art
Tiny prints or postcards in sleek frames look great leaning against the back of the shelf. They add personality and layers. You may also consider few personal photos or art prints add warmth and individuality. Use frames in coordinating finishes for a cohesive look. Check out your local thrift shops for afford frame options, too.
Candles
Use taper candles for height or large pillar candles for a cozy, grounded vibe. Candle holders can double as décor even when unlit. For the higher shelves, I add in flameless candles for a little ambiance, and the ones with remotes are especially handy for putting them on a timer.
Small Sculptures
Think abstract pieces, busts, or hand-carved wood objects. These draw the eye and help style your bookshelves in a unique way. My personal favorite is a bust (similar here) that I picked up from my favorite thrift shop in Fuquay-Varina.
Baskets or Boxes
Woven or wooden boxes are great for storage and add texture. Use them to corral clutter or stash remote controls in shelving. I have quite a collection of trays and I like to use those to display books, hold our drink coasters, and remotes.
Plants
Small potted plants or succulents add natural texture and softness. They also bring a little life to your bookshelf styling. I recently added a snake plant to our collection and it is thriving. It is a great option since it is low maintenance and does not require a lot of light, water, or attention.
Bookshelf Styling Ideas
Minimalist Monochrome
Pick one color family and use books, objects, and artwork in various shades of that hue. This cohesive look is calming and refined. Stick to a tight color palette, like all neutrals or all black-and-white books, for a sleek, minimalist look. Layer in white vases or matte black accents.
Collected + Eclectic
Mix styles, textures, shapes and colors to create a lived-in, traveled vibe. Combine heirloom finds with modern candles and stacked books horizontally for contrast. This is my current theme for our home office bookshelves.
Seasonal Swaps
Rotate your shelf styling seasonally. In spring, swap in floral art and bud vases; in fall, bring in amber glass and cozy textures. I also bring in small pumpkins and gourds in the fall and greenery and holiday decor in the winter. This is a fun way to keep your bookshelf fresh and festive.
Family Photo Display
Use the bookshelf to tell your family story by mixing framed photos with a few books and keepsakes like vacation souvenirs or sentimental artwork. I collect art prints, so I like to bring those in during some of my refreshes.
Minimalist Shelving
Use fewer items and allow each one to stand out. Opt for clean lines and neutral tones to create an elegant, clutter-free aesthetic. This approach works especially well on bookshelves that are not as deep.
Final Thoughts
Bookshelves are a beautiful blank canvas for creativity. Whether you have a lot of books or prefer a curated display of decor, following these steps can help you style your bookshelves in a way that reflects your personality and adds visual interest to your space.
Looking for more decorating inspiration? Check out my post on how to decorate a foyer table to bring that same styled feel to your entryway.
