~ Accessorizing bookshelves ~

I just got back from a relaxing four days in Washington with my cousin. I needed to get away and relax a bit from thinking about all of the many things that I need to get done. There never seems to be enough hours in a day, unless of course your waiting for something. Then... time. stands. still.
While I was there, I spent three days relaxing, eating, shopping and then eating some more. By the 4th day, I was ready for a good project. My cousin wanted her bookshelves to look better, and I got busy working on them. It was the least I could do since she provided me with a wonderful place to get away!


(Click on pictures to enlarge)


Bookshelves seem to be something that are really difficult for some people to figure out how to display. They are wonderful for storing books on but they also work great to display some of your most valuable treasures. How do you do this without just lining things up? Here are a few things that I like to do.
I begin by unloading everything off of the shelves. By doing this, you can actually look at the project with "new" eyes. In this case, I removed one of the upper shelves on each side to allow the shelves to hold some larger items. It also seemed to break up some of the symmetry. The way that I like to begin is by placing larger things first. I place a large item in one area and then go to another section to place another large item. Then I fill in other areas with smaller things. I like to use books (I know, it's a book shelf) but not only for storing them. I use some as "bookends" and others as something to add height to an object. Placing some of your pictures on top of books or on an easel adds interest. I also like to add a little bit of greenery somewhere as well. Some people don't like silk plants. I however, love them. Not only do I not have a green thumb, but I live in the Northwest where there isn't an abundance of light coming in the windows a good majority of the year.
As you can see on this project, I removed the items from the top of the shelves. I normally like things on the top of furniture to add height, and even though this room has very high ceilings it just felt as though there was too much going on here. What we wanted to accomplish here was a cleaner, more simplified look and feel.
Another thing to remember when accessorizing is to stack and layer. This means that instead of sitting things side by side, try stacking them for a different look. Layering means that you want to place some items further in the back of the shelf and others closer to the front, and use items with varying heights.
You can view another bookshelf that I did in my living room at the end of "A Redesign of my own" post.
These are just some of the simple tips that I use. Please feel free to share how you accessorize your bookshelves and other areas in your home. I always love reading my comments from many of you!

If you live in the Portland/Metro area and are interested in having help with any of your design or decorating needs, please visit my website at www.myrenewedspaces.com or call me at 503-997-2325.