As an avid book lover, I have always dreamed of having a cozy reading nook by a fireplace. When my husband and I purchased our home, we were thrilled to discover that it had a beautiful fireplace with built-in bookcases on either side.
However, once we started decorating the bookcases, we realized that it was not as easy as we thought it would be. We wanted to create a cohesive and stylish look, but we didn’t know where to start.
Decorating Ideas For Bookcases By Fireplace
Current Trends
The current trend for decorating bookcases by fireplace is to create a balanced and symmetrical look. Use a combination of books, decorative objects, and greenery to add interest and texture to the shelves.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide for decorating bookcases by fireplace:
- Start by removing all items from the bookcases.
- Clean the shelves and paint them if necessary.
- Sort your books by color and size.
- Arrange your books on the shelves, alternating between vertical and horizontal stacks.
- Add decorative objects such as vases, candles, and picture frames to the shelves.
- Include greenery such as potted plants or faux flowers to add a pop of color and texture.
- Step back and assess the overall look, making adjustments as necessary.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
Here are our top 10 tips and ideas for decorating bookcases by fireplace:
- Use a mix of books, decorative objects, and greenery to create a balanced look.
- Arrange your books by color or size for a cohesive look.
- Include personal touches such as family photos or sentimental objects.
- Use bookends to keep books in place and add visual interest.
- Add lighting such as table lamps or sconces to highlight your decor.
- Create a theme such as travel or nature to add a unique touch.
- Use baskets or boxes to store smaller items and keep the shelves clutter-free.
- Consider adding wallpaper or a contrasting paint color to the back of the bookcases for added depth.
- Play with different textures such as woven baskets or metal accents.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles for a personalized look.
Pros and Cons
Like any home decor project, there are pros and cons to decorating bookcases by fireplace.
Pros:
- Adds visual interest and texture to your space.
- Allows you to showcase your favorite books and decor items.
- Can be a budget-friendly way to update your space.
Cons:
- Can be time-consuming to arrange and decorate the shelves.
- May require purchasing new decor items or books to achieve the desired look.
- May require ongoing maintenance to keep the shelves looking organized and clutter-free.
My Personal Review
After spending countless hours arranging and rearranging our bookcases, I am thrilled with the final result. The shelves add a cozy and stylish touch to our living room, and I love being able to showcase our favorite books and decor items.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: How do I choose which books to display on my bookcases?
A: Consider displaying books that are visually appealing, such as those with interesting covers or illustrations. You can also choose books that are related to your overall decor theme, such as travel or nature.
Q: How do I keep my bookcases looking organized and clutter-free?
A: Use baskets or boxes to store smaller items, and limit the number of decorative objects you display. Regularly assess the shelves and remove any items that no longer fit with your overall decor theme.
Q: How do I incorporate greenery into my bookcase decor?
A: Consider using potted plants or faux flowers to add a pop of color and texture to the shelves. Choose plants that are easy to care for and fit with your overall decor theme.