Bookshelves aren’t just for books. They’re also a canvas for personal expression, a stage for treasures, and a critical design element in any home. Whether you’re a minimalist at heart or a maximalist collector, there’s a way to style your shelves beautifully—while still showcasing your unique taste. Here, we’ve gathered practical and creative tips from top interior designers that will make your bookshelves look as if they were curated by a pro.
Start with a Blank Slate
Styling is easiest when you start fresh. “Clearing everything off allows you to reimagine the space,” says home stylist Allisa Jacobs. Once the shelves are bare, focus on adding height with vertical elements like artwork, tall vases, or leafy stems. “These draw the eye upward and keep the shelf from feeling too cluttered.”
To create balance, Jacobs recommends using a variety of shapes—like round bowls and square frames. Combining different silhouettes will make the shelf feel both dynamic and cohesive.
Decorate
Regan Elizabeth Photography
Bookshelves have evolved from simple storage units to design focal points. “Mixing books with decorative pieces provides more visual interest and is a fantastic way to display items of importance—or simply highlight beautiful objects and artwork,” says Olma Fuentes, founder and principal of Deni + Dove Interiors.
Bookends can be standout design elements, too. “An ornamented bookend paired with a curated stack of books can serve as a beautiful décor element,” says Karen Anderson, an in-house designer at Rustic Red Door Co.
To create balance, leave open space on one side and add a small plant or picture frame to the top shelf. Anderson also suggests showcasing a favorite book on a bookstand to add character and visual interest.
Make it Personal
Photography by Regan Elizabeth
Showcasing personal collections—whether it’s vintage pottery or unique glassware—can add character and charm. “Books can be stacked horizontally or placed upright, with collected items layered on top to create dimension,” says Shirin Sarikhani, founder of Seattle Staged to Sell.
Family photographs are another way to add a personal touch. Brooke Droptini, founder of and principal designer at LittleCreek+Co, recently created a “Family’s Story Shelf” filled with photo albums and favorite books. “This became a meaningful focal point where the family could share moments together,” she says.
Plants are a must for styling bookshelves. “Greenery not only adds warmth and a sense of life but also improves air quality,” says Sarikhani.
Leave Some Room
Deni + Dove Interiors
When it comes to bookshelves, less is more. Interior designer Lauren Riddei of Haus Holistics shares that a minimalist approach not only keeps shelves functional, but also highlights the beauty of each individual piece.
“The temptation for more accessories, more books, and more trinkets is there, but trust me, when you can edit, edit, edit, and go with your gut, the result is stunning,” she says. Her advice: rely on classical principles like proportion, scale, and color theory—but don’t be afraid to let unexpected choices shine through.
