How to Style Built-In Bookshelves in Your Living Room Like a Pro
* This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through links from Amazon and other retailers at no additional cost to you.
Let’s face it, styling built-in bookshelves can feel like one of those things that should be easy but somehow turns into a stressful game of Tetris with books and knickknacks. You want your shelves to look like they belong in a design magazine, but you also don’t want to sacrifice their actual purpose—you know, holding books.
Don’t worry, I’ve been there, staring at those built-ins while questioning every decor choice I’ve ever made. But with a few tricks, and some creativity, you can turn your built-in bookshelves into a stunning focal point in your living room.
1. Start with a Clean Slate
The first step in styling built-ins is to completely empty them out. Yep, take everything off. Books, decor, the random stuff you’ve been shoving in there to avoid dealing with it—all of it. Starting with a blank canvas helps you see the shelves’ potential without distractions. Plus, it’s a great excuse to dust those shelves for the first time in who knows how long. (No judgment. I’m right there with you.)
While you’re at it, check if your built-ins need any repairs or touch-ups. A fresh coat of paint or some added trim can elevate the whole look before you even start decorating.
2. Choose a Color Palette
Now that you’ve got a blank slate, decide on a color palette. This will help your built-ins look cohesive rather than chaotic. You don’t have to go full minimalist unless that’s your thing. Just pick a few main colors that complement your living room decor.
For example, if your living room has warm tones, go for earthy colors like terracotta, cream, and deep green. If it’s more modern, try a palette of black, white, and gold. This little bit of planning makes a big difference.
For built-ins, consider how the background color impacts the overall vibe. If the back of your shelves is painted or wallpapered, use those colors as a guide for your decor choices.
3. Books First, Because It’s a Bookshelf
Let’s start with the obvious: books. They’re kind of the star of the show. Stack them vertically, horizontally, or mix it up for a more relaxed vibe. You can also organize by color for a rainbow effect if you’re feeling bold (and patient). But if your book collection looks more like a hodgepodge of old paperbacks and mismatched spines, don’t stress.
Just flip the spines around for a neutral, Instagram-friendly look. Yes, I know it sounds impractical, but it’s an option for the aesthetics-obsessed.
If you’ve got built-in lighting, use it to highlight particularly beautiful or rare books. A well-lit shelf can make even the simplest book arrangement feel intentional.
4. Add Layers and Height with Decor
Here’s where it gets fun (or overwhelming, depending on your mood). Use decor pieces to add layers, height, and texture to your built-ins. Think small vases, framed photos, candles, or even small sculptures.
The key is to mix shapes and sizes. Pair a tall vase with a shorter stack of books, or lean a framed print against the back of the shelf. And don’t forget greenery! A small plant or trailing ivy can make your shelf feel alive and less like a museum exhibit.
Built-in shelves are a great place to display unique or meaningful pieces. Use the depth of the shelves to your advantage by layering items—place a small piece of art behind a few books or add a decorative tray to corral smaller items.
5. Play with the Rule of Thirds
This little design trick is a game-changer. To use the rule of thirds when styling shelves:
- Visualize the Grid: Imagine the shelf divided into three vertical sections, as shown in the image. These divisions help create balance and harmony when placing decor items.
- Balance the Weight: Arrange objects so each vertical section has visual interest without overwhelming one side. For example:
- Place taller objects, like books or plants, near one of the lines.
- Use smaller or lighter items, such as decorative accents or bottles, to fill the spaces in between.
- Mix Heights and Shapes: To keep things visually appealing, vary the height, texture, and shapes of items within each third. For instance:
- In one section, a stack of books with a small decor piece on top.
- In another, a taller vase or artwork.
- Group in Odd Numbers: Use odd-numbered groupings, like 3 or 5 items, for a more natural and pleasing look.
- Leave Breathing Space: Avoid overcrowding. Let some areas feel open to maintain a sense of simplicity and elegance.
This approach will make your shelves look polished and professional while being visually balanced. Would you like me to expand on these points for a blog post?
6. Personalize It
Your built-ins should feel like you. Add personal touches like souvenirs from trips, meaningful trinkets, or even quirky items that make you smile. Got a goofy figurine from that vacation years ago? Pop it on the shelf! The goal is to create a space that tells a story, not just one that looks like it came straight out of a catalog.
Family photos can also be a great addition, but keep them minimal to avoid visual clutter. Opt for sleek frames that match your chosen color palette for a polished look.
7. Use Negative Space
Don’t feel like you have to cram every square inch of your shelves with stuff. Leaving some areas intentionally empty—aka negative space—gives the eye a place to rest and keeps things from looking cluttered. Think of it as giving your decor room to breathe. Plus, it’s an easy way to look like you know what you’re doing.
Negative space can also highlight your favorite pieces. By leaving areas open, the eye naturally focuses on the items you’ve chosen to display, giving them the attention they deserve.
8. Light It Up
If your built-ins don’t have built-in lighting, consider adding some. A small LED strip or a clip-on light can instantly elevate the whole look. Plus, it’s practical for showing off those late-night reading sessions you’ll probably never get to because you’re too busy binge-watching your favorite show. No judgment.
Candles can also add warmth and ambiance, but make sure they’re positioned safely. Flameless candles are a great alternative if you’re worried about open flames near your favorite books.
9. Balance is Key
Take a step back and look at your built-ins as a whole. Does one side look heavier than the other? Are the colors evenly distributed? Balance is key to a well-styled shelf. If one side feels too cluttered, move some items around until it feels right. And remember, balance doesn’t mean symmetry. It’s all about creating harmony.
When balancing, consider the visual weight of items. A large, bold sculpture on one shelf might need a stack of books on the opposite side to balance it out.
10. Refresh Occasionally
Just because you’ve styled your built-ins doesn’t mean they have to stay that way forever. Switch things up every few months to keep them feeling fresh. Swap out decor, rearrange the books, or add something new. Styling is supposed to be fun, not a one-and-done chore.
Seasonal decor can be an easy way to refresh your shelves. Add a touch of greenery in spring, pumpkins in the fall, or twinkle lights during the holidays to keep things festive.
Final Thoughts
Styling built-in bookshelves in your living room doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the basics, embrace your personal style, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Remember, it’s your space, and it should make you happy—even if that means keeping a few hidden compartments for snacks. (Because, let’s be real, we all do it.) Now go grab those books and knickknacks and start styling! You’ve got this.
