How To Decorate Family Room Bookshelves

Bookshelves in a family room offer an excellent opportunity to showcase personality and create a visually appealing focal point. More than just storage for books, they can be styled to reflect interests and enhance the overall room aesthetic. Careful consideration of arrangement, color palettes, and accessory choices can transform ordinary shelves into a captivating display.

The first step in decorating bookshelves is decluttering and organizing. Remove everything from the shelves and assess each item. Consider donating or discarding unwanted or damaged items. This process allows for a fresh start and ensures only the most cherished possessions are displayed.

Once the shelves are empty, cleaning is essential. Dust and polish the shelves thoroughly to create a clean backdrop for the decorative elements. This step enhances the visual appeal and preserves the condition of the books and other items.

Books form the foundation of most bookshelf arrangements. Consider arranging books both vertically and horizontally to create visual interest. Horizontal stacks can act as bookends or risers for smaller objects. Organizing books by color can create a striking, cohesive look, while grouping them by genre or author provides a more traditional library feel.

Incorporating decorative objects alongside books adds personality and dimension to the shelves. These objects can range from framed photographs and small sculptures to vases, decorative boxes, and travel souvenirs. These personal touches transform the shelves from mere storage into a curated display that reflects the family’s interests and experiences. Select objects of varying heights and sizes to create a dynamic and visually appealing arrangement.

Plants, whether real or faux, add a touch of life and vibrancy to bookshelves. Trailing plants can soften the edges of the shelves, while smaller potted plants can add pops of color. Consider the available light and the maintenance requirements when selecting plants. Faux plants offer a low-maintenance alternative while still providing a similar aesthetic effect.

Strategic use of color can significantly impact the overall look of the shelves. A cohesive color palette creates a sense of harmony and visual flow. This can be achieved by grouping items with similar colors or by using a limited color scheme throughout the arrangement. Consider the existing room décor and choose colors that complement the overall aesthetic.

Lighting plays a crucial role in showcasing the arrangement. Integrated shelf lighting or strategically placed spotlights can highlight specific objects and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider the type of lighting that best suits the room's overall lighting scheme and the specific items being displayed.

The rule of thirds can be applied to bookshelf styling to create visually balanced and appealing arrangements. Imagine the shelves divided into thirds both horizontally and vertically. Placing objects at the intersection of these lines creates a sense of balance and draws the eye across the entire display.

Varying the height and depth of objects adds visual interest and prevents the arrangement from looking monotonous. Use taller objects towards the back of the shelves and smaller items in front. This creates a layered effect and allows all objects to be visible. Incorporating items with different depths prevents the display from appearing flat and two-dimensional.

Leaving some negative space, or empty areas, on the shelves is crucial. Overcrowding can make the display appear cluttered and overwhelming. Strategic use of negative space allows the eye to rest and appreciate the individual items on display. It also creates a sense of balance and harmony.

Artwork can add a touch of sophistication and personality to the bookshelves. Small framed prints, canvases, or even decorative plates can be incorporated into the arrangement. Consider the color palette and style of the artwork to ensure it complements the overall aesthetic.

Mirrors can be strategically placed on the shelves to create a sense of depth and reflect light. A small decorative mirror can add a touch of elegance and make the shelves appear larger. Consider the size and shape of the mirror in relation to the other objects on the shelves.

Baskets and boxes offer practical storage solutions while also contributing to the overall aesthetic. Woven baskets or decorative boxes can be used to store smaller items and conceal clutter. Choose baskets and boxes that complement the color scheme and style of the room.

Textiles, such as small throws or decorative fabric, can add texture and warmth to the shelves. Drape a lightweight throw over a stack of books or use a piece of fabric as a backdrop for smaller objects. Consider the color and texture of the textile in relation to the other elements on the shelves.

Regularly reassessing and updating the bookshelf arrangement is essential to maintain a fresh and engaging display. As interests and tastes evolve, the shelves should reflect these changes. Seasonal updates can also be incorporated to reflect holidays or changing seasons. This ongoing process ensures the bookshelves remain a dynamic and engaging focal point in the family room.