Explore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro

By Parul Sharma Published On: Apr 17, 2025 04:25 PM IST Last Updated On: Apr 17, 2025 04:27 PM IST
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Are you also obsessed with bookshelves on the internet but left wondering why yours doesn't look like it came straight out of someone's Pinterest board? Well, you might not be following the right tips. Over time, we turn our bookshelves into a dumping ground for random objects, cables, cords, and whatnot. Luckily, you can make a few tweaks and turn your cluttered bookshelf into a well-organised piece of furniture. Whether you want to invest in a new high-quality bookshelf or transform your existing one, the right mix of books and decor can turn it into a visual treat. Don't know where to begin. Worry no more. Here are the top 10 creative ways to help you learn how to style tall, white, short, brown, and all types of bookshelves.

Expore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro

Explore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro; Photo Credit: Pexels

Also Read: We Added Bookshelf To Our Living Room, Here Is How To Transformed The Home

1. Add Some Greenery

Whether you have a classic white bookcase or a brown and black wooden one, adding a little bit of greenery can transform the whole look. If you can't care for live plants, artificial vines and plants present an ideal alternative. Similarly, you can also go for low-maintenance plants. Use different-sized plant pots and arrange them at varying heights and corners for a layered look. You can get all creative with this bookshelf styling idea and arrange your books and plants in a way that feels like 'you'.

2. Use Storage Boxes

Do you sometimes use the empty space on your bookshelf to store random objects, cords, and other things? If so, using decorative storage boxes makes it look more organised and efficient. These boxes are perfect for organising all your essentials in one place to make them more efficient. Plus, you no longer have to deal with ugly cords hanging right and left. Experiment with different patterns, colours, and fabrics to find something that complements your bookshelf

Expore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro

Explore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Add Bookends

Looking for a functional decor for your bookshelf apart from the books? How about adding some bookends? For the uninformed, bookends are objects meant to hold your books upright on a shelf or surface and prevent them from falling. They are usually sold in pairs and act as statement pieces to break the monotonous design of books and add some style to your house. 

4. Mix Books With Decorative Items

Contrary to what most people believe, bookshelves are not meant for your dearest books only. Instead, you can make the most out of them but mixing books with the right decorative items. For starters, you can pair your books with scented candles, ceramic vases, and sculptures. For some personal touches, you can also add a few photo frames here and there. 
The best tip is to go for different arrangement styles, like horizontally and vertically, to create visual interest. This assorted mix will prevent your bookshelf from looking cluttered. 

Expore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro

Explore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Follow A Colour Palette

The next way to learn how to style your bookshelf is to follow a specific colour palette. This does not mean that all your books should match the exact same colour. Instead, you can arrange books whose colours match closely with each other to create a visual harmony. Similarly, you can also arrange books according to their spine colour for an interesting look. 

6. Experiment with Heights and Depths

If you are also one of those people who arrange all their books in the same pattern, this tip might be of great help. It is important to avoid a flat and one-dimensional look to prevent your favourite bookshelf from looking boring and dull. Instead, you can place taller objects behind smaller ones to make them slightly overlap. If your books are of the same height, you can use risers. 

Expore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro

Explore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro; Photo Credit: Unsplash

7. Switch Items Seasonally

The best part about styling your bookshelf is that you can get creative and pursue different ideas. You don't always have to stick with the same theme or styling pattern. Instead, you can switch your arrangement seasonally and give your old bookshelf a new look. For instance, artificial pumpkins and spider web decorations look great in the Fall. Similarly, fairy lights, pine cones, fake gifts, and artificial snow will look heavenly during Christmas. This small habit will make your space lively and vibrant without doing a full makeover. Plus, you can reuse all these decorations. 

8. Use Artwork

Do you like to paint portraits of your loved ones or create abstract art? Why not display it confidently on your bookshelf? Yes, you read it right! Incorporating artwork into your bookshelf can give it a luxurious appeal. If you are not an artistic person, you can get some prints from online websites and create a mini gallery wall inside your bookshelf. Choose artwork that complements the overall theme of your bookshelf or has similar colours to bring in some consistency. 

Expore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro

Explore 9 Ways to Learn How to Style Bookshelves Like a Pro; Photo Credit: Pexels

9. Leave Alone The Negative Space

Another tip for styling bookshelves is to resist the temptation of using all of the space, intentionally or unintentionally. Leaving some idle space on the bookshelf gives your eyes a place to rest. It draws attention away from the books and makes the overall look organised and well-balanced. Moreover, leaving the negative space alone also prevents visual clutter. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I make my bookshelf look good?

To make your bookshelf look good, you can play with different stacking styles, decor items, and themes. For instance, mix horizontal stacking with vertically stacked books. Similarly, you can also add some greenery through plants and vines for an aesthetic look. 

2. What is the best bookshelf arrangement?

There is no right or wrong way to arrange books on a bookshelf. Rather than being rigid, you can try arranging your books according to height, colours, and genre. 

3. What to decorate bookshelves with?

Some creative ways to decorate bookshelves are using artwork, photo frames, bookends, and collectibles. You can also consider adding an artificial or real plant for some extra greenery. 

4. How do you illuminate a bookshelf?

If you don't want your bookshelf to look dark and dull, there are various ways to add some light. For instance, you can add some lanterns, sensor lights, artificial candles, and LED strip lights. Try to avoid anything that needs an open flame. 

5. How do you make a bookshelf not look cluttered?

To make your bookshelf look less cluttered, use storage boxes and bookends for organisation. Leave some breathing room on the shelf and avoid placing random objects. 

Learning how to style bookshelves can help you make the most out of this piece of furniture without making it look cluttered. A well-styled bookshelf reflects your creativity and preferences to create a space that feels functional yet inspiring. Don't be afraid of what will go wrong. Take out the books, wipe them with a clean cloth, and experiment with different stacking styles. From sculptures and plants to vinyl records and photo frames, you can try so many things to make your bookshelf just like the ones from Pinterest. 

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.

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