Don’t judge a book by its cover. Here’s our best tips on styling your bookshelves.

We get it—bookshelves are a tricky beast. They can either be the centerpiece of your room, making it feel curated and cozy, or they can end up as a chaotic mountain of mismatched books, tangled cords, and random knick-knacks. At Huggelig Homes, we believe a well-styled bookshelf should feel like an extension of your personality and your space, whether it's packed with dog-eared novels or curated decorative objects.

Bookshelves are more than just storage—they’re a statement. So, how do you get your bookshelves from "meh" to magnificent? Keep reading as we share our top tips to turn your bookcase into a stylish focal point worthy of the "oohs" and "ahhs" you’re after.

Start with a Clean Slate

First things first—clear off your shelves. We know, we know, this seems like an obvious step, but we can’t tell you how many times we’ve walked into a home and found bookshelves buried under a mountain of clutter. If you want a space that feels elevated and intentional, you’ve got to give yourself room to breathe.

Once you’ve got a clean slate, it’s easier to see what you’re working with. You need a blank canvas.

Mix Books and Decor for Balance

You’ve heard the phrase “don’t judge a book by its cover,” right? Well, your bookshelf’s styling should be no different! While we’re all for showcasing beautiful, colorful books (who doesn’t love a good splash of literature?), you’ll want to balance things out by mixing in some carefully chosen decor pieces to break up the spines.

Think sculptural objects, vintage finds, framed art, or even plants (the ultimate décor multitaskers). Pair your books with objects that add texture and personality. A statement vase, a quirky sculpture, or a few picture frames will prevent your bookshelves from feeling too rigid or overcrowded.

Go for Layering, Not Just Stacking

Bookshelves are the perfect place to practice the art of layering. Stacking books horizontally isn’t just functional—it can create visual interest! Try grouping some books in neat stacks, alternating with vertically arranged ones. And don’t just stop at books. Layer smaller decor pieces on top of the book stacks, creating depth and dimension.

When it comes to bookshelves, “flat” is the enemy. You want to create a dynamic, lived-in feel, where each shelf invites you to take a closer look. It’s a curated mess, and it should feel a little effortless!

Color Coordination (But Not Too Much)

When color coordination is done right, it can make a shelf feel organized and cohesive without looking too "staged." We’re not talking about perfectly matching every single spine, but think about grouping books in color families or arranging them in a gradient for a fun, colorful vibe.

On the flip side, if you want your bookshelf to be more neutral or minimalistic, you can also achieve a stylish look by incorporating only neutral tones. Just make sure you’re still mixing up sizes, textures, and heights to avoid a flat, one-note look.

Don’t Forget About Height Variations

Bookshelves, like any well-designed space, thrive on visual variety. That means you shouldn’t be afraid to play with height differences. Incorporate taller books, medium-sized books, and small ones. Pair taller objects with shorter ones—think a stack of books next to a taller vase, or a few shorter books with a statement plant growing out of a decorative pot.

The idea is to create an overall balance between heights so that the space feels dynamic and flowing. The shelves shouldn’t feel static—every item should interact with the next in a way that feels harmonious.

Add Greenery for Life

You’ve heard it a million times—plants are the secret sauce to making any room feel fresher and more alive. Bookshelves are no exception! Whether you’re using trailing ivy, potted succulents, or a statement fiddle-leaf fig, plants help break up the lines of books and give your shelves a natural touch.

Pro-tip: For a shelf that feels abundant and lush, consider mixing in a variety of plants with different textures and heights. A pop of greenery will never go out of style!

Play with Symmetry

Symmetry has long been a hallmark of good design, and yes, it absolutely works on bookshelves. Try creating symmetry by balancing two tall objects on either side of a shelf or pairing books in matching stacks on opposite ends. This can create a sense of order and tranquility.

That said, if you prefer a more organic, relaxed vibe, don’t be afraid to break the symmetry. A little asymmetry can add a playful, dynamic energy to the space. Balance can be achieved without everything being perfectly mirrored—it's about creating a feeling of cohesion through thoughtful placement.

Rotate for Freshness

One of our favorite tips? Don’t be afraid to switch things up from time to time! As seasons change or you update your home decor, give your bookshelves a refresh. Swap out books or decor pieces that no longer fit the vibe, and introduce new finds to keep things feeling fresh.

A rotating collection of books or new art pieces can also inspire you to reimagine your entire shelf layout, keeping your space feeling energized and lively year-round.

Remember, Less Is More

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking your bookshelf needs to be packed to be stylish. But trust us—sometimes less really is more. A well-curated shelf should have breathing room for each item to stand out. Overcrowding can make the space feel chaotic, so be selective with what you choose to display.

Instead of stuffing your shelves with every book or trinket you own, focus on showcasing a few meaningful items, and let each piece shine.

Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to styling your shelves. The goal is to create a space that feels as unique as your personality. So embrace the process, have fun with it, and remember: bookshelves are meant to be lived in!

At Huggelig Homes, we’ve seen how well-styled bookshelves can transform a space, adding warmth, character, and, of course, a little bit of charm. If you’re looking for expert help to bring your bookshelf dreams to life (or need assistance with any other aspect of interior design), we’ve got your back. Give us a call or drop us a line—we’d love to help you turn your house into the home of your dreams.