Bookshelf Décor Tips and Tricks

Hello! Welcome to my bookshelf décor tips and tricks guide! I’ll give you the tips to style your bookshelf like a pro. Bookshelf décor is trendy, and you want to be sure it’s decorated right! 

I have another post on common modern farmhouse living room trends here. For this post, I will focus on bookshelf décor and the tips and tricks you need to know to decorate it right! So let’s jump right in!

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Bookshelf Décor Tips 

There are a few things to consider when you start the decorating process on your bookcase. I have grouped the big-ticket items into 7 different categories below.

Dimensions of the Bookcase

First, you’ll need to consider the width, height, and depth of your bookcase. How many shelves are there? Is there room for tall items? Or does the height of the bookshelf limit the size of the décor? Do you have side-by-side bookcases? 

All the above questions matter because these factors can limit you in different capacities. For example, my bookshelves have different heights between the shelves. The bottom shelf has the most space in between. 

Because the heights between my shelves are different, I have arranged the decorations methodically. For example, the copper bucket is on the bottom because it takes up the most height out of all my decorations. 

Also, if you have side-by-side bookcases, you’ll need to be mindful of the space. Personally, I would want to leave room between the decorations so it’s not crowded. However, if that is the look you’re going for, then go for it!

Color Pallet of the Bookshelf

Another tip to consider is the color of your bookshelf. Is it a neutral color? Or is it a painted bookshelf? Is it on the lighter side or the darker side? 

In my opinion, a bookshelf can never be too white. You can put white décor pieces on a white bookshelf and it’ll look pretty. 

Because the bookshelves in this house are so dark, I have to limit how many dark décor pieces I use. The goal here would be to brighten the bookshelves as much as possible. 

Decorating Style

Style is huge when it comes to how you decorate your bookshelves. Are you going for a modern look? What about the farmhouse, boho, contemporary, minimalistic, or vintage? Or perhaps a combination of a few. Whatever look you are going for, make it yours! 

In my example, I have some farmhouse and vintage pieces. The copper tea kettle and bucket lean more on the vintage side. The wood slabs, light holders, and picture frames are more farmhouse. 

Decoration Seasonality

Another thing to consider when decorating your bookshelf is if seasonality will come into play. Are you looking for decorations that will last year-round? or do you like to switch it up? Personally, I like to add some seasonal decorations to switch the decorations up.

Function

How do you want your bookshelf to function? Is it just purely decoration? Or are there going to be functional items as well? For example, I LOVE wicker baskets, and I think adding these is a great way to store those little nick-nack items. 

For example, I have 3 wicker baskets in total on my shelves. One has a projector that we have for game/movie nights and an Aurora Borealis light. Another basket has a speaker, and the last basket has religious items like small figurines or rosaries. All are conveniently located and organized. 

Décor you Already Have on Hand

I am a huge advocate of using what you already have on hand. I mean don’t get me wrong, I love browsing Amazon or going to Marshalls and getting new decorations. But, there is something so satisfying about using that random fan that you didn’t know what to do with. The giddy realization that the fan perfectly balances the new copper bucket decoration. Take my word on this one. So satisfying.

Surroundings Around the Bookshelf

The last consideration out of the 7 bookshelf décor tips and tricks is what is surrounding the bookshelves. Is it a TV? Fireplace? Something else?

Shop the Look

Bookshelf Décor Tips and Tricks

I hope you found these bookshelf décor tips and tricks helpful! Reach out if you have any questions, and comment below if any of these tips and tricks have helped you decorate your bookshelf!

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