Kindles might be pushing traditional books to the back seat. However, hard copies have their charm and are irreplaceable, no matter how digital our every day becomes. There are still people who love to show off their book collection as a part of their room decor. Here are some trendy and attractive designer bookshelf ideas for them. Before we explore those, let us see some of the basic things to keep in mind while choosing a bookshelf.
See also: Top bookshelf designs
Bookshelf versus bookcase
Though the words may be used interchangeably among laymen, there are some differences in design specifics. A bookshelf is essentially a decor item with a few rows to accommodate some books. On the other hand, a bookcase is a large storage unit for all your books with multiple rows. Most bookcases are floor-bound, while bookshelves can be installed on the walls, floors or any given space. Another difference between a bookshelf and a case is the former is not a permanent solution and does not have encased ends, while the latter has permanent fixtures.
see also about: wall bookshelf
How to choose a designer bookshelf
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A designer bookshelf makes up a significant part of your room decor and should be chosen carefully. It should match the rest of the interior so that it does not look out of place.
Here are some points to keep in mind while choosing the right design:
Make a mental note of your choice of style
What kind of bookshelf do you prefer? Is it the standard one or the ladder bookshelf? Do you like contemporary designs, or are you into more traditional, closed shelves? Understand your preferences first before checking out the available designs. You should also consider the overall decor of your living room before going ahead with the designs.
Consider the ergonomics
Unlike other pieces of furniture, a bookshelf should contribute more to the functional aspect of the interiors than the aesthetics. You should choose a design that does not make you strain your neck too much to grab the books on the topmost shelves. It should have the right height and be placed at the right spot to prevent back aches or pains in the shoulder or neck. Even if you just need a few seconds to grab a book from the shelf, those few seconds matter a lot in terms of ergonomics.
Consider the available space
You do not want your new bookshelf to take up the entire space in the living room, do you? So take measurements of the space you are planning to install the shelf before you finalise a design. Make sure that the shelf is not too big or too small and fits just right in. The other decor items in the room should not get overshadowed by your new bookshelf.
Choose a colour theme
Going beyond the traditional wooden theme, you have to consider the rest of the interiors while choosing a colour theme for your designer bookshelf. If your walls are neutrally-painted, you can choose a darker hue for your bookshelf and other pieces of furniture. Now, if your walls and the rest of the room have a denser colour palette, choosing a lighter, metallic tone will make the shelf stand out.
Amazing designer bookshelf ideas to spark your imagination
Maximise space: Designer bookshelf
Take into consideration the height, width and depth so that you can use the maximum space for the bookshelf .
Stylish book storage: Bookshelf ideas
A book shelf made of wrought iron with a white book case beneath looks classy.
Creative bookshelf designs
Simple metal book shelf nooks look very elegant.
Designer book nooks: Inspiring ideas
Wall to wall book shelf matched with delicate furniture makes for a good home library.
Corner columns
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If you want to add some life to your otherwise dull and monotonous room corners, then installing a columnar shelf may do the trick. Consider a 5-tier wooden shelf to keep some books, planters and succulents to create a vibrant effect. Now, the corners are susceptible to insect infestations and dust, but constructing the shelf out of wood will help ward off such possibilities. The only thing is, you need to clean the shelves often to keep the dust from accumulating.
Quirky, floating triangles
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These can be installed on an empty wall on any side of the room. Small and quirky, these accommodate some of your favourite titles and enhance your living room appeal. Placing a small planter at the bottom of the triangle will help bring some life to the dull wooden construction. You choose any size, depending on the available space and your existing decor.
Rustic and regal tree shelves
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How about using the branches of a tree to show off your books in style? Yes, the rustic bookshelves generally depict a large tree with the books representing its leaves. You can install it in the corners or at the centre, depending on the interior design of the space. Wherever you place this ancient tree shelf, it will look classic and gorgeous.
Minimalist metal shelves
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These freestanding bookshelves can be constructed entirely of metal or a combination of wood and metal, whichever appeals to you the most. These are minimalist shelves that do not accessorise much. You can fix it on your living room walls and place books, photographs, planters, little decor items, etc., on it to complete the effect.
Glam glass shelves
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Glass shelves are both sophisticated and classy in appearance. If you are planning to install the shelf in a large room with lots of light, glass shelves can be your best bet. With their legs and corners made of metal, the shelf will make your entire living room decor stand out. You may enhance its grace by placing small planters, succulents, candle stands, lamps and flower vases intermittently between rows of books.
Lanky ladders
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Ladder bookshelves are quite trendy, not to mention highly functional. If the squares, rectangles or triangles do not appeal to you much, try this. It helps add some tinge of fun and chic to your living room decor, making it pop up. Place it on the farthest corner of the living room or beside the television set for maximum effect. You may also opt for two identical ladder shelves on the two sides of a large television cabinet.
FAQs
How should I decorate my living room bookshelf?
Consider small, decorative items, like planters, marble bowls, candle stands, cute souvenirs, vases, etc., to place on the rows in between books. You can also add some artificial lighting to your bookshelves to create a luminescent corner.
How should I choose the colour of my bookshelf?
If you have a tiny room, pick the shade of your walls or a similar one to prevent clutter. A muted tone for your bookshelf will make it appear vibrant by arranging the books in a colour theme of your choice.
Can I use artificial lights on my bookshelf?
Yes, depending on the size of the shelf, and the available space, placing a jar of DIY lights or cute bulbs will take the feel of your bookshelf to another level. You can also install artificial lamps on the topmost row of a large bookshelf.
What kind of bookshelf will be best for my kids’ study room?
It is best to opt for traditional bookshelves, like wood shelves, enclosed shelves, or even a conventional bookcase for a study room.
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