Bookworm!

I love books and I also love the look of bookcases.  I have had bookcases in every home I have lived in.  They have a sophistication about them but if you aren't careful they can look very junky and cluttered! They are functional but if used in the right way, they can be an integral part of your decor.

There are so many ways you can use your bookcases to showcase precious pieces along with your favourite reads.  So think beyond lining up your books side-by-side and check out some of these ideas...

1 -- Focus on interesting details like lining the books up by colour and group things together based on similar hues.  This creates interesting depth and different focal points in a bookshelf.



2 -- Separate the books that have truly unique or special covers and use them as displays.  Instead of hiding a beautiful cover, turn it outward so they can be seen. This adds character to your shelves (and the room) plus it is another artistic element.  It doesn't necessarily have to be a big beautiful book, it could be a favourite book like Dr. Seuss' 'Oh, the places you'll go'

3-- Get creative. I know your school librarian taught us that books had to be stacked side-by-side.  Try something new, pile them up horizontally, use bookends, lean them diagonally - it's more interesting to look at and it makes the unit more than just a bookshelf.

4 --Beyond Books.  You you have a special vase or a piece of art that doesn't have it's own space in the other rooms in your place? Why not display it on your bookcase? By using the shelving piece for more than just books you are creating a beautiful visual element in the room.  when a bookcase is just full of books, it can look too functional and too cluttered.  A bookcase is also a great spot for displaying collectibles.



5-- Think custom.  Add some personality to the bookcase by painting the backing part of the bookcase in a bright fun colour like a yellow or turquoise.  It's unexpected, one of a kind and will really add pop to the room. Or, paint the whole bookcase in a bright fresh colour.  another idea would be to look for an old bookcase with some real wear and tear which has so much character even in a cool and modern space.

6-- Old and new, in fact nothing is off limits!  Combine books, vases, cool collectibles etc...in your bookcase again this adds so mush visual interest, creates easy conversation and it's a great way to show off your personality and personal style.




The other great thing about bookcases is that really than can work just about anywhere from the family room to the kitchen, to the office to the living room.  It's a great way to be practical and fashionable in your home!