How to Style Bookshelves

{HGTV}

Bookshelves...you either love 'em or hate 'em!

They are great for storing all of your books, but sometimes hard to figure out just WHAT to put in them, besides books, of course.

I have 2 tall and narrow bookshelves that needed some help.

 So, I pulled together some pictures of inspiration for styling shelves.

 

There really are no rules. The first picture shows that hanging

something special on the outside of the shelves adds interest and depth. 

I totally love the empty frame around the antler mount.

{Driven by Decor}

This Office has very few books on the shelf,
but so many different textures, vessels, patterns, framed prints
 and pictures that make it pleasing to the eye.

{suite life designs}

It's always a good idea to stand some books upright,
while laying others flat. Varying the heights helps with balance.
Placing decorative items on top, beside and in front adds interest as well.

{Interior Canvas}

Larger bookshelves can be a design feautre. Painting the backside of the shelving unit a different color makes it pop. This picture also shows bead board that's been painted on the back wall of the bookshelves.
Patterned fabric behind the books makes a great statement as well.

{Coburn Architecture}

If you have a ton of books, then fill those shelves up! 
Here is a great space where books are filling the shelves with only a few added decorative items interspersed. 
 The books are arranged nicely.

 I think I've been inspired, now back to sorting books and such.
Check back soon to see my new Uncluttered Bookshelves.

And don't forget about the upcoming Dream.Create.Inspire Fall Link Party & Giveaway. That's a mouthful, but for sure will bring lots of creative inspiration for your fall decorating.