Bookshelves aren’t just for encyclopedias anymore!

Whether you want them to reflect your personality and style, or you’re preparing to list your home for sale, these three steps will help you re-style and capture attention. With home accessories easier to find these days and at reasonable prices, just a few simple changes can update the look and feel of a room.

Getting started:

It’s best to start from scratch. Clear everything off the shelves so you can start with a blank canvas. Keep it simple and provide ample space around each object. You want to bring your bookshelf to life but you don’t want to over clutter the shelves. Create a sense of flow or consistency.

Less is more, especially when decorating with personal items. So fewer, well thought out pieces will create a better visual impact. Only keep what you really want to show off. However, if trying to sell your home, it’s best to clear the shelves of personal objects like family photos and trophies.

1. Create a Focal Point

Use something that will be visually appealing. Select a bold piece of art or a decorative platter that stands out. Or just decorate your shelves around a special collection that you own.

2. Accessorize

Whatever your personality, taste, or interests, the possibilities are endless. For some this can get a little tricky as to how much and how little to use when creating a well orchestrated, stylish, shadow box into your personal world. Pick a theme, use things found in your surroundings, or just make a statement with things you love. Look for decorative pieces, interesting objects, and/or friendly art that creates a sense of warmth and intimacy. Size matter’s when choosing accessories. Try to avoid using items so small that you have to get up close to see them.

And, don’t forget the books! When creating a balanced look that’s cohesive and organized, try using a cluster of books on a few of the shelves. Mix and match. Choose books that are similar in height and width, or choose compatible colors, to enhance the visual flow.

When stacking books, stack them horizontally AND vertically, as this will help move the eye around and give you the chance to showcase them in a less formal way. A good rule of thumb is to start with the heaviest books on the bottom shelves and work your way up.

3. Use Shapes, Color, Textures and Movement

Solid, bright colored items, like vases or other decorative art, can add a distinctive touch. Pick a color that will compliment the other pieces in the room to tie it all together. A popular trend is to line the backs of bookshelves with fabric, decorative wallpaper, and even wrapping paper.

Tip: Paint the backs of the shelves a couple shades deeper than your room color to add a simple contrast that best sets off the objects being displayed.

Here are a few ideas of things that could be used on your bookshelves:

• Display old books with interesting covers or all the same color.
• Picture frames of all sizes, shapes, and colors.
• Decorative house plants.
• Decorative dishes, platters, or plates.
• Old or unique toys.
• Vases with unique shapes that are vibrant and rich in color.
• Crystal dishes.
• Trinkets.
• Special items from your travels.
• Add a fun and interesting twist with unique bookends.

If you need a whole new look and you’re going shopping, remember that local venues and markets are great places to search for those unique pieces that can add a little spice to your familiar decor.

Other Organizing and Home Selling Resources

• 7 Biggest Mistakes you can Make When Selling Your Home
• 15 Killer Tips for Selling a Home – Bill Gassett
• The 7 Deadly Home Seller Sins – Ferris Property Group
• 31 Smart, Low-Cost Organizing Ideas – RealSimple
• 12 Key Decorating Tips to Make Any Room Better – Houzz

More Articles for Home Buyers 
More Articles for Home Sellers

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