Image: http://www.architecturalphotos.net/
Ever walk into a shop or someone’s home and stare at their styled bookcase? haha! I have, and I am no stranger to seeing beautiful shelves! The thing is, it’s actually not that difficult. Styling a bookcase in your home or office is easy if you can remember a few easy steps.
Image: Kristen McGaughey
Balance
The eyes are looking for items to look balanced. Nothing should be lop-sided or too heavy. Pieces need to have depth and dimension and appear to be the same to create a symmetry of sorts. This may be the hardest to achieve, but practice, practice, practice!
Scale
Use different sized articles that will compliment one another-not compete. This is especially important when you are styling multiple shelves. Also consider the actual height of your shelves. Putting uber small pieces on a massive shelf will get lost. And if you are going for drama, or have only one surface- then juxtaposition and opposition can work very well together.
Image: Kristen McGaughey
Ratio
Groupings of odd numbers is nothing new, and kind of a rule. But we all like to break the rules IF we can. How? Use complex pieces that have enough visual interest in their shape, silhouette and line so the eye is tricked!
Image: http://www.architecturalphotos.net/
Colour
Colours are great on bookcases. But again, colour block, or make a rainbow or whatever you like. Here’s another ‘rule’, try and use only three colours. Technically, black and white are not colours, so adding a neutral like green or blue go well. Neutrals work well together- and are so easy to find in nature. Always a bonus!
Image: Melissa Hardwick
Materials
I don’t like limiting materials because it can take away the fun and interest from styling. I do like pairing similiar shapes and I like adding a lot of texture!
It’s waaay more creative and personal when adding curated objet d’art. I might find a few new trending pieces but I NEVER use all new pieces when styling.
PRO TIP: I like mixing up new with vintage or rare. I regularly peruse places like FB Marketplace, ETSY, Thrift Shops and Artisan Markets. The ability to collect over time is all part of the process and makes the end result totally worthwhile, and a reflection of YOU! Really, it’s all about you!
Image: Kristen McGaughey
Don’t forget, If you ever need help, I’m here for ya! xx
