How do you create a shelf that’s more “wow” and less clutter?

Bookshelves aren't just for storing books; they represent who you are and what you love. You could be someone who loves good decor or someone with an overflowing bookshelf; this blog is for you!

Let's review the best tips and tricks for styling your bookshelves like a pro, avoiding common pitfalls.

Books do not have to be in the military, standing in rows one after another. Stacking some of the books horizontally and vertically will make your composition look more complex. This makes it more appealing to the eye and breaks the monotony of old-fashioned styles. Stacking books horizontally will become a platform to place small decorative objects, such as a candle or figurine. Remember to start from the most significant books at the bottom when arranging them horizontally for aesthetics and stability.

Arranging books of different heights creates a dynamic look that's visually appealing. Group books by height or create mini clusters that have a mix of short and tall books. This strategy prevents flatness and opens up the space. For small books, pile them up and keep a decorative object, such as a small vase, on the stack to add height.

Though books are supposed to be the focal point, decorative items can add personality to your shelf. Think of small sculptures, framed photos, or quirky but delightful objects. Set a potted plant on a book stack and add a crystal or a decorative bowl to reflect your personality. These items will mirror your personality. So, if you love travel, you can bring out your memories by displaying a small globe or souvenir from an unforgettable trip of yours.

Art can add depth and intrigue to your shelves. To avoid drilling or hanging a piece on the side of the bookshelf, try propping up a framed artwork on a side row of books. Old cameras, figurines, or souvenirs can genuinely bring out the uniqueness of a bookshelf. Space them out evenly and put only a few in one spot.

One common mistake is trying to fill every inch of a shelf. While showing all your books and decorations at once is tempting, it can make the space look messy. Negative space is an integral part of a well-balanced design. Open spaces allow your eyes to rest, making your favourite items stand out more.

Aim for 1 or 2 shelves to be empty. This keeps a minimalist look. One shelf could have a few books stacked up on one side. Place a small statue on the other side, leaving space in the middle. This simple style makes the shelf look carefully designed and stylish.

The books and decor's colours work well together. They match the room's primary colour and clean tones, making the bookcase look harmonious. You can group books with matching spines or use books with plain covers. If you want to add colour to a plain wall or bookshelf, choose books and decor that go well with the colourful tones.

Creating a theme takes your decoration to the next level if you love a consistent look. For example, a nautical theme can use blue books, a model boat, and driftwood. A travel theme can have books on world history, a mini Eiffel Tower, and framed travel photos. But do what is necessary - just one or two theme items per shelf will keep it classy and tasteful.

Change the look of your shelves to add some style. You can use wallpaper, fabric, or paint to turn a plain case into something new. For example, grasscloth wallpaper has texture and looks nice without being too much. A bright colour or patterned background can improve a shelf's look and let the items be the main focus.

Removable wallpaper is excellent for people who rent or change their decor often. You can use paint to try out new colours in your space. Focus on bold hues or use soft colours for a harmonious look. For a fast and easy option, attach fabric to foam boards and put them on the back of your bookshelves.

Real or fake plants bring life to any space, including bookshelves. The best choice is delicate, low-maintenance plants like succulents, pothos, and snakes. Trailing plants like ivy can be placed on a higher shelf. This lets their leaves hang down, adding movement and wonders to the room. Fake plants can be a good option if you don't have a green thumb.

Smaller plants in pots look good on stacks of books. You can group the pots. Choose pots in colours that match or contrast your room's style. This creates a uniform feel.

Lighting is a vital part of making a bookshelf look great. If your bookshelf doesn't have built-in lights, you can use LED strip lights or battery-powered puck lights. Clip-on reading lights are another option. They come in different styles to match your decor. Picture lights can give your bookshelf a gallery-like look. You can mount these lights on the shelf.

Have you ever looked at a shelf and found it annoying? You can create shelves of different heights. This adds variety to your items.

It can make your rooms look more attractive. If you want a unique look, move a shelf or two. This allows space for taller things like vases, art, magazines, or books.

Home storage should be plain and grey. But storage can be helpful, too, and it also looks nice.

Why not hide ugly things like TV remotes and wires in decorative boxes or baskets?

When you do this, pick boxes that match your decor. Then, add those boxes to lower shelves. This creates visual interest and balance.

I. These are extra features for your product. They can make it work better. The extra items add more uses, which means your product can do more things and benefit you. These additional parts are a good addition. They improve how your product works.

II. Bookends can do more than hold your books. They can give your bookshelf an artistic touch, keep your books in place, and look great. Pick unique and personalized bookends to show your style and personality.

III. Trays are functional on shelves. A tiny tray can manage loose items and clutter. Use the tray to hold coasters or small trinkets. This makes the shelf look tidier, and you won't lose the shelf's character.

IV. Bins can add colour and fun to your home. They hide things like mail or toys but still look stylish, allowing you to use every space attractively.

Avoid adding too much styling to your content. Too much styling can make your content hard to read. Stick to simple, clean styles that don't distract from the main message. This will make your content more accessible for readers to understand.

Trying to make every shelf perfect is a problem. It's easy to overdo shelf styling, which can look forced and dull. Instead, play with the items on each shelf. Use some shelves with just books and one decoration.

Build depth and mix elements, shelf by shelf, to keep things relaxed.

This makes your home feel peaceful. Remember, less is more on shelves. Keep it natural and loose, and display its beauty sophisticatedly.

Avoid these common mistakes, and you'll be on your way to designing a great bookshelf.

1. Overcrowding can make your room look tiny and messy. Indeed, less stuff often looks better. Putting too many things on each shelf can cause this problem. So try to avoid overcrowding and keep your room organized.

2. Arranging things the same way on shelves can look dull. Mix heights, positions, and items to make it more interesting. This adds variety and makes it look better.

3. Don't be afraid to add personal touches to your bookshelf. This can make your space feel warm and inspiring. For example, you could add family photos or other unique items. Adding these personal touches is a great way to make your bookshelf reflect who you are.

4. Skipping maintenance can make your bookshelf look messy. Dust and clutter will pile up, making your showpiece stagnant. To prevent this, set a regular schedule, dust, and arrange the items on the shelf as needed.

Remember to leave room for more books. Have fun trying different layouts. Your bookshelf should grow with you.