Curating a stylish bookcase can come with questions. How do you achieve a well-balanced look? Should you coordinate colors? What should be on display? Beth’s first piece of advice: “don’t put out anything you don’t absolutely love.” Then, have fun.

Let’s take a look at some of Beth’s favorite bookcase projects and better understand the foundations of a well-styled bookcase. As you scroll, keep these things in mind: you always need more books than you think you do, combine items of different sizes, coordinate books based on colors, and arrange in odd numbers.

In these built-ins, art in different shapes and heights are paired together and displayed in a thoughtful way. Just because it is a bookcase, doesn’t mean you must display books.

A bright green background brings attention to the well-styled shelves, which hold everything from books to pottery. Paying close attention to proportion and scale, Beth artfully arranged items of all varieties.

Built-in shelving is a common element in traditional design. Here, fresh design elements introduce a contemporary touch, and a loose layout on the shelves works in contrast to the formality of the space. But don’t be fooled, each item was intentionally placed.

The homeowner’s treasured collection of figurines shares the shelves with family photos and books. Books are stacked horizontally and vertically on the bookcase, so the look isn’t too polished.

Productivity is the result of a clutter-free workspace. In this office, the shelves hold elements of art that bring a welcomed level of sophistication into the design.

Built-ins belong everywhere — even in bathrooms, and Beth often incorporates art and accessories into bathrooms for an unexpected surprise. Adding gold and white accessories in this bathroom bring style into a room designed for practicality. Beauty and function? Yes, you can have both!

This traditional living room features built-in bookcases that frame the fireplace. The styled shelves, filled with books and art, help break up the all-white wall and add interest, depth and personality into the room.

Go forth and display meaningful items in visually compelling vignettes to enhance the design of your bookcase! Let us know how it goes.

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Discover more of our blog posts here. We cover everything from color to coffee table books to functional design, and we can even help you discover your design style.