There is definitely an art to arranging bookshelves. Each of the elements of design comes into play – balance, harmony, color, shape, form, rhythm and scale, just to name a few. When curating bookshelves it is important to make sure they express your personality. Use books and items you have collected that you love to see. The very best arrangements are the ones that bring a wide smile to your face! We have styled a broad range of bookshelves over the years and always find it fun to mix our client’s cherished items with new treasures to create a cohesive space.
The shelves in our office are functional and filled with books and catalogues that we have collected over the years and use regularly for inspiration. They also serve as a temporary home for fun finds from our favorite shops and antique dealers that we discover on our travels.
Sometimes the impact of shelving can be a very simple arrangement of a collection of similar objects. There is an art to making sure everything is balanced, but we love the way the continuity can fill a space.
A few of the guidelines that we like to follow are:
– Stacking books horizontally, vertically and in alternating directions for interest
– Painting or wallpapering the back wall for interest and to allow the items on the shelves to “pop”
-Making sure that there is a good balance of books and accessories
– Stacking objects on books to create a layered space and visual texture
Bookshelves not only add interest to a space and they also add warmth, character and a beautifully functional way to display items you love without having to store them away in cabinets.
Below are a few items from some of our favorite shops that provide both inspiration and an exceptional supply of interesting accessories. Hope you enjoy these ideas for decorative pieces!
1| Classic Shagreen Frame from Aerin found locally at Longoria Collection 2| Blue and White Vessel from Found for the Home 3| French Linen Box from Back Row Home 4| Moritz Bowl from Aerin found locally at Longoria Collection 5| Geometric Shaped Bud Vases from Found for the Home 6| Crystal and Pewter Vase from Arte Italica found locally at Kuhl-Linscomb 7| Vintage French Books from Found for the Home 8| Stone Jar and Top from Liz Spradling Antiques 9| Amelie Vases from Aerin found locally at Longoria Collection
“People who see the beauty in those around them cause beautiful things to happen.” Flavia
