Whether you’re an avid reader or simply appreciate the aesthetic appeal of books, incorporating them into your new home’s decor is a wonderful way to infuse personality and warmth. Fortunately, there are also plenty of ways to use them as decorative elements that add character to your new home.
1. Create a Cozy Reading Nook
Transform an unused corner or alcove into a cozy reading nook that embraces the beauty of books. Start with one or two tall bookshelves in the corner. Then, place a comfortable armchair in front of the shelving. This creates a secluded space where you can escape with your favorite books.
Add a side table so you have an easy place to store a cup of coffee or tea. Ideally, this table will be approximately one inch below the height of your chair’s armrest. If you can find a side table with a shelf beneath it this can make for an easy place to display the books you’re currently reading. Add a reading lamp to create the perfect ambiance for hours of immersive reading.
2. Build a Statement Wall
A statement wall with floor-to-ceiling shelving is a classic and obvious way to incorporate books into your decor. This becomes more stylish and customized when you get creative with the way you organize the display. One of the more popular recent trends is to display your books by color. This is a great way to create a beautiful rainbow wall that really makes a statement. Other common ways to organize the books is by size or by subject matter.
If you have the space on your shelves, mix in some decorative objects like vases, photo frames, or small plants to add variety and interest. Don’t be afraid to play with different shelf heights and incorporate unique bookends to further enhance the aesthetic appeal.
3. Minimalist Style
Colorful and cozy bookish displays are great, but they’re not for every home. If your style is more minimalist, you’ll want to consider the possibility of turning your books around. You can shelf your books with their spine laid on the shelf or simply turn them backward. This way, the white pages are the surface that faces onlookers. This creates a unique, minimalist, and clean look.
In many homes with a minimalist style, this can be overwhelming with tall bookshelves. Try this on shelves that are about hip height. Alternatively, if you have floor-to-ceiling shelving already, try this look on all the shelves, but only half filled. Use slim bookends to keep the titles in place and allow the blank space to give the eye some breathing room.
4. Show Off Your Special Editions in a Display Cabinet
A display cabinet is a beautiful way to show off your most precious titles. This is a great place to put your rare or limited-edition books. If they have particularly beautiful covers, you may want to turn them so the covers are visible. Alternatively, this is a great place to store older hardcover editions with beautiful spines.
Keep in mind that owning a display cabinet with glass inserts can require a little more maintenance. You’ll need to clean the glass regularly and protect the cabinet. These can also be very delicate pieces when you are moving to a new house. Antique display cases are very popular, but quite a bit of work. If you’re getting these just for your books, keep that in mind.
5. Use Books as Decorative Accents
Walk throughout your space and look for areas that can use a little bit of pop. Consider the size of your books and your color choices when doing this. You can stack a few books with similar color schemes on a coffee table, side table, or mantelpiece. Alternatively, you can pair them with decorative objects like candles, vases, or small sculptures to create an interesting focal point.
Keep in mind that adding an odd number of objects is usually the most visually appealing. One popular way to do this is to place three books in the center of a shelf with a candle or decorative object on either side. Try to find objects for the sides that are both smaller to create a triangle shape for aesthetic appeal. You can also arrange books vertically or horizontally to create unique book towers or use them as risers to elevate other decorative items.
Books possess an undeniable allure, and incorporating them into your new home’s decor is a delightful way to infuse your space with character. Let your imagination run wild as you find unique ways to integrate books into unexpected spaces, turning your home into a personal haven that reflects your tastes.
