How to: Beautiful Bookcases

There is nothing more beautiful in a home then a lot of built-in bookshelves.  However, shelving can become a hassle if you are stuck on how to fill them in a lovely way.  When styling your bookshelves, start by thinking about a theme or color palette you want to use. Books are the obvious place to start – they can be placed upright or laying flat, but look best when they are grouped according to size. I also feel that books look best when they color coordinate with each other.

This rustic look by Restoration Hardware is easy to re-create.  Just rip the binding and cover off your books and wrap them with a piece of string.  Yes, it’s a bit destructive, but it looks so chic.

If you prefer a more refined and intentional look, then the key is to cover your books (all or some) with paper or fabric.  It is a really easy way to create continuity within your design scheme.

These lovely bookcases and bookshelves are great inspiration

As you can see here, not all of the books have to be covered

I covered a few of my own books today and it only took about 10 minutes

If you want to spruce it up, print out an image and then cut it to fit the binding of your books:

After your books are covered and placed, begin adding large items (click on the image for the link.)

Finally, add smaller pieces to fill any voids an make your bookshelf look complete (click the image for the link.)

Sources: 1-2.) Restoration Hardware, 3-4.) Habitually Chic 5.) All About Vingettes, 6.) Restoration Hardware,  7.) Brittany Stiles, 8.) Lonny, 9.) Style Theories 10-15.) All About Vingettes 16-25.) Click image for link 26.) Celerie Kemble

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