The living room is one of the most important spaces in a home, as it’s where we spend time with family and friends, unwind after a long day, and entertain guests. A well-designed bookshelf can not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the living room, but it can also serve as a functional storage solution for all your favorite reads and decorative items. These living room bookshelf ideas will help you live your bookworm fantasy.
Whether you prefer a minimalist or eclectic style, there are plenty of living room bookshelf ideas that can transform your space into a cozy and inviting retreat. From built-in bookshelves to floating shelves, let’s explore some creative ways to showcase your personal style and enhance the ambiance of your living room.
1. FILL THE WHOLE WALL
2. MAKE A RAINBOW
Do you have a rental space with dull white walls that you’re not sure how to decorate? I have a solution for you: fill it up with books! This is particularly helpful if you’re not permitted to hang artwork, but still want to make a bold statement. White bookshelves like the ones used by @gillian_roe_ are stylish and timeless, and can complement most interior design styles – making them a great choice if you plan to move in the future. Alternatively, you can choose wooden bookshelves for a more organic feel.
3. ADD A TOUCH OF GREENERY
Bookshelves are not only ideal for showcasing books, but they can also serve as a charming abode for plants. The green leaves and flowers can create a stunning contrast with the displayed books, introducing a burst of rich color and texture. Furthermore, it contributes to a cozy forest-like atmosphere that is absolutely adorable.
I admire how @readswithrosie has adorned the shelf with smaller plants and complemented them with a larger hanging plant to frame the shelf.
4. DON’T BE AFRAID TO CLUTTER
I understand if you’re skeptical about what I’m about to say. After all, haven’t I always emphasized the importance of decluttering, my dear reader? Let me clarify: getting rid of unnecessary items is undoubtedly a positive step towards an organized space. However, when it comes to those charming books that you simply can’t bear to part with, and yet, lack the shelf space to display them, I hereby give you permission to let them grace your living space.
But don’t just pile them up haphazardly – be creative in their placement. You could try leaning them against a shelf or a wall, or even stack them neatly on a stool or small table like @savvylit does. By doing so, these literary gems will add to the aesthetics of the room without appearing cluttered or overwhelming.
Remember, sometimes it’s okay to bend the rules a little in the pursuit of beauty and inspiration. So go ahead, let your books be a part of your décor!
5. USE A STORAGE TROLLEY
I’m completely smitten with @erinreadss‘ book display, and the storage trolley bookshelf particularly caught my attention. Trolleys are a fantastic solution for creating additional storage space, especially when you’re short on room. They have endless practical uses, from carrying groceries to serving as a makeshift nightstand. With their generous shelves and layers, trolleys are perfectly suited for holding books, and they’re just the right size for this purpose.
Another benefit of using a trolley as a bookshelf is that you can easily move it from room to room, like a mobile library. This allows you to access your books wherever you are, and it’s a fun way to bring some of that old-school librarian vibe into your home decor.
6. CREATE A READING NOOK
I enjoy spending my leisure time by curling up with a captivating book in a cozy corner. That’s why I find @thebookchatter‘s photo (opens in new tab) so appealing, as it represents my ideal reading nook. She has utilized a combination of wide and narrow bookshelves to efficiently use the corner space for displaying books. It’s a clever approach that not only maximizes wall space but also creates a distinct area for unwinding in the living room. And to top it off, the comfortable chair is a perfect finishing touch.
7. GO UP HIGH WITH FLOATING WALL SHELVES
If you currently reside in a rental property that already has wall shelves or if your landlord has permitted you to hang shelves, then this is an excellent opportunity to display your book collection. One inspiring example is from @readingtorelax, who has arranged her shelves with varying heights, creating an eye-catching display that draws attention to different parts of the wall.
To make your books stand out, you could opt for a minimalist wall shelving design, which will provide a clean and simple backdrop. On the other hand, if you’re feeling more creative, you could choose a more artistic option, such as shelves with metallic brackets that add a touch of sophistication to the overall look.
Whether you prefer a modern or a traditional aesthetic, wall shelves can serve as an excellent way to showcase your beloved book collection. So, get inspired and unleash your inner interior designer by adding a touch of elegance and style to your living space.
8. BRING OUT YOUR BOOK’S (AND YOUR) PERSONALITY
Adding pops of personality to your living space is one of the best ways to bring it to life. One exciting idea is to showcase your book genre preferences by matching the shelf decorations to them. @shannasaurus_rex_reads (opens in new tab) has masterfully executed this idea on her fantasy-themed bookshelf by incorporating complementary pieces, such as metallic birds, gnarled branches, and printed wall art, resulting in a more fantastical and immersive display.
If you’re intrigued by this concept, take a moment to browse through your book collection and see if there are any themes or motifs that you could bring to life through decor.
