Time to up your bookshelf game and make it the envy of every room!

Styling a bookshelf isn’t just about piling up books and trinkets and hoping it looks good. It takes a bit of effort to get that perfect balance and avoid a cluttered mess. When you get it right, your favourite items really shine! Books can be the main focus, but don’t be afraid to mix in personal touches. Ever had trouble making your bookshelf look just right? Here are some common mistakes to watch out for!

Nothing but Pages! 

It might seem like sticking to just books is the way to go, but adding in some decorative touches can really make your shelves stand out. Try mixing in a cool sculpture, a stylish clock, some unique travel souvenirs, or a few colourful art pieces. These additions give your shelves personality and make the whole display look more polished.

Material Overload! 

To keep your bookshelves from looking messy, think about the materials and how they work together. Pairing something like worn books with a sleek blown-glass vase can create a nice contrast. But if you mix too many materials—like brass, wood, glass, leather, and ceramic—on one shelf, it can get cluttered fast. If you’ve got a whole wall of shelves, try spreading things out for a more balanced look.

Scale Fail! 

When you’re styling your shelves, size is pretty important. If something looks too small or you have to squeeze it in, it’ll stand out in a way you don’t want. Mixing up item sizes is cool, but balance is the trick. Group smaller items together to give them more oomph, and give larger pieces some room to breathe so your display doesn’t look crowded.

Flat and Boring! 

Don’t let your shelves be flat and boring! Adding some layering can make a big difference. Try leaning a small picture in front of a stack of books or setting up candlesticks of different heights in front of a mirror on a stand. Play around with different setups until it feels right. One cool trick is to place taller items in the back and shorter ones in the front for a neat layered effect. 

Crowded Clutter! 

When styling open shelves, it’s all about walking that fine line between “perfectly curated” and “hot mess.” To keep things looking sharp, make sure each item or collection gets its moment to shine. Creating some breathing room between pieces helps everything feel more harmonious. If your shelves get too crowded, you risk turning your display into a clutter fest where even your favourite items might get lost in the chaos.

Ignoring the Backdrop! 

While everyone’s eye is on what’s on your shelves, don’t forget about the backdrop! Adding some wallpaper, shiplap, or a splash of paint can give your shelves a little extra personality. And don’t skimp on the lighting—library lights, small lamps, or even battery-operated candles can make those behind-the-scenes details pop. It’s like giving your shelves a backstage pass!  

Final tip: Styling bookshelves takes a dash of patience and a knack for details, so don’t rush it. Start with the pieces you love and want to flaunt, then add other items bit by bit. If something feels out of place, just ditch it. Think of your shelves as your personal stage—show off your favourite things and keep hunting for new stars. A well-styled bookshelf isn’t just neat; it’s like a sneak peek into your personality!