Brilliant Bookcases

Bookcases are a often overlooked place to create beautiful and interesting arrangements in addition to housing your favorite books.  With thoughtful planning and a creative eye, your bookcases can stand out as a focal point in your room, rather than just a background storage feature.  Use the tips below to create bookcases that will look fabulous in any room.

• Get creative in arranging your books.  Line them up vertically, horizontally, laying flat against the back of the bookcase, etc.  The books can become sculptural pieces when placed in contrasting arrangements.  Vary the heights on a single shelf.

• Incorporate collections that you may not have found a home for  yet, but make sure that they make sense.  A variety of substantially sized objects in interesting textures and materials (look for shine, pattern, feel) will draw attention without looking scattered or disjointed.

• Paint the back or your bookcases or cover with wallpaper.  Look for a shade that is darker or substantially brighter than your bookcase frame.  Objects will pop against the colored background.

• Light your bookcases in the same way that you would highlight a painting or sitting area in your home. Use a small accent lamp if possible or install downlighting or sconces.  Illuminating your bookshelves will add drama and capture the eye.

• Make sure to spread out your books.  You don’t want to run out of actual books after the first couple shelves.  Bookcases look best when each shelf is home to a variety of both books and collections.

• Small paintings, lamps, and mirrors can look lovely if you are looking for a filler object on an empty shelf.  Also use them as bookends.  Use vases, small sculptural pieces, and frames to create visually interesting look.

With a little planning and creativity, your bookcases will no longer appear to be a disorganized jumble of books but will stand out as one of the highlights of your home.