
The top of a bookcase is a prime spot to display your favorite items and add a personal touch to your home. But with so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are a few tips on how to decorate the top of your bookcase in a way that is both stylish and functional.
First, consider the size and shape of your bookcase. A large bookcase will require more décor than a small one, and a tall bookcase will need taller items to fill the space. If you have a narrow bookcase, you’ll want to choose items that are long and thin. Conversely, if you have a wide bookcase, you can use larger items to create a more balanced look. Finally, consider the style of your bookcase. A traditional bookcase will look best with classic décor, while a modern bookcase can handle more eclectic pieces.
Once you’ve considered the size, shape, and style of your bookcase, it’s time to start choosing décor. Some popular options include books, plants, candles, and artwork. Books are a great way to add color and personality to your bookcase, and they can also be used to create a focal point. Plants are a great way to add life and freshness to your bookcase, and they can also help to purify the air. Candles are a great way to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and they can also be used to add a touch of fragrance to your home. Artwork is a great way to add visual interest to your bookcase, and it can also be used to reflect your personal style. No matter what you choose, make sure to vary the heights and textures of your décor to create a visually appealing display.

Styling the Surface with Decorative Objects
The surface of your bookcase presents an alluring canvas for a captivating display. To orchestrate an eye-catching tableau, consider employing a combination of decorative objects:
1. Focal Point Feature: Introduce a larger, more prominent piece as the centerpiece of your arrangement. This could be a stately vase, a sculptural figurine, or a framed painting. The focal point draws attention and establishes a sense of balance.
2. Diffuse Objects: Scatter smaller objects around the focal point to create visual interest and prevent monotony. These items can include candles, decorative orbs, miniature plants, or collectibles.
3. Organic Elements: Infuse a touch of nature into your display by incorporating organic elements such as plants, flowers, driftwood, or seashells. These pieces add fluidity and soften the overall look.
4. Decorative Books: Stack books vertically or horizontally to create height and add visual appeal. Choose books with vibrant covers or interesting textures to enhance the aesthetic of your arrangement.
5. Personalized Touches: Include a few personal items that reflect your style and interests. This could be a framed photo, a travel memento, or a beloved keepsake. Personal touches create a sense of warmth and connection.
6. Lighting: Illuminate your display with a small lamp or candle to highlight your carefully curated arrangement and add a touch of ambiance.
Focal Point Feature |
Diffuse Objects |
Organic Elements |
Vases |
Candles |
Plants |
Figurines |
Orbs |
Flowers |
Paintings |
Collectibles |
Driftwood |
Incorporating Artwork and Wall Hangings
Elevate the top of your bookcase with a touch of artistry. Consider hanging small framed pieces, prints, or original paintings with minimal depth to avoid overcrowding. Alternatively, opt for wall sculptures or 3D artwork that adds texture and height. If your bookcase has a narrow top, a long, horizontal piece of artwork can create a dramatic focal point.
Wall hangings, such as macrame, woven textiles, or tapestry, can add warmth and visual interest. Choose pieces that complement the colors and textures of your books. You can also use wall hangings to conceal unsightly cables or cords.
When arranging artwork and wall hangings, experiment with different heights and placements. Consider using small frames in a gallery wall arrangement, hanging a large piece vertically in the center, or layering smaller pieces on top of larger ones. To create a cohesive display, ensure the colors, styles, and textures of the pieces harmonize.
Tips for Incorporating Artwork and Wall Hangings:
Tip |
Details |
Consider scale: |
Choose artwork and wall hangings that are appropriately sized for the bookcase. |
Maximize vertical space: |
Hang artwork vertically to create a sense of height and drama. |
Use wall hangings for concealment: |
Conceal cables or cords with stylish wall hangings. |
Create visual interest: |
Combine artwork, wall hangings, and objects for a dynamic display. |
Creating Visual Interest with Stacked Books
Stacking books can be an easy and impactful way to add visual interest to your bookcase. Here are a few tips for doing it effectively:
- Vary the sizes and shapes of your books. This will create a more visually interesting display than if you stack all your books of the same size. For example, you could stack a large hardcover book on its side, then place a smaller paperback book vertically against it. You could also add a few magazines or small objects to the mix.
- Use color to your advantage. If you have a lot of books with colorful covers, use them to your advantage by creating stacks that are visually appealing. For example, you could stack a blue book on top of a yellow book, then add a green book to the side. You could also use books with black and white covers to create a more neutral look.
- Add personal touches. Don’t be afraid to add a few personal touches to your book stacks. For example, you could include a photo of yourself or a loved one, a small plant, or a piece of art. This will help to make your bookcase feel more like home.
Adding Greenery for a Touch of Nature
Plants bring a touch of life and nature to any space, and they can also add a splash of color and interest to the top of your bookcase. Choose plants that are small enough to fit on the shelf, and be sure to pick ones that don’t require a lot of water or sunlight. Some good options include:
Plant |
Light Requirements |
Water Requirements |
Snake plant |
Low to medium |
Low |
ZZ plant |
Low |
Low |
Spider plant |
Medium to bright |
Moderate |
Pothos |
Low to medium |
Moderate |
To add some extra height and interest, you can place your plants on pedestals or risers. This will also help to prevent them from getting lost in the clutter on your shelves.
If you’re not sure how to arrange your plants, start by placing the tallest ones in the back and the shorter ones in the front. You can also create a staggered effect by placing plants at different heights on the shelf.
Once you’ve arranged your plants, step back and take a look at the overall effect. You want the plants to add to the look of your bookcase without overwhelming it. If the plants are too cluttered or overwhelming, try removing some of them or rearranging them until you’re happy with the look.
Displaying Collections and Mementos
The top of your bookcase provides the perfect platform to showcase your cherished collections and mementos. Whether it’s your antique teacups, vintage vinyl records, or travel souvenirs, there are endless possibilities for creating a captivating display.
Arranging Your Collections
When arranging your collections, consider the following tips:
- Group similar items together. This helps create a sense of order and visual impact.
- Vary the heights and sizes. This adds visual interest and prevents monotony.
- Use risers or stands. These elevate smaller items and make them more visible.
- Experiment with different angles. Placing items at varying angles adds depth and dimension.
- Incorporate personal touches. Add photos, postcards, or other mementos that evoke fond memories or tell a story.
Lighting Your Display
Proper lighting can enhance the beauty of your display. Consider using:
- Natural light. Position your bookcase near a window to take advantage of natural light.
- Artificial lighting. Add a spotlight or picture light to illuminate specific items.
- LED lighting. LED lights produce minimal heat and are energy-efficient, making them a good choice for displaying delicate items.
Rotating Your Display
To keep your display fresh and exciting, consider rotating it seasonally or periodically. This allows you to showcase different items and prevent them from becoming stale.
Protecting Your Display
Protect your valuables from dust, dirt, and damage with the following measures:
- Use dust covers. Clear or opaque dust covers can keep dust away from your items.
- Clean regularly. Regularly dust your display and use a soft cloth to wipe away smudges.
- Consider using UV-resistant glass. This can protect your items from fading and discoloration.
Item |
Suggested Display |
Books |
Stack vertically or horizontally, vary heights, use bookends |
Figurines |
Group by theme or color, use risers, experiment with angles |
Photographs |
Frame in different sizes, arrange in a grid or collage |
Vintage Records |
Display vertically in a record shelf, add personal memorabilia |
Travel Souvenirs |
Group by country or theme, use maps or photos as backdrops |
Books and Decor
The top of a bookcase is a great place to display your favorite books and decor. You can create a cohesive look by choosing items that share a similar color scheme or theme. For example, you could display a collection of blue and white ceramics, or a group of books about travel.
Lighting It Up with Candles and Lamps
Adding a candle or lamp to the top of your bookcase can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Candles are a great way to add a touch of fragrance to your space, while lamps can provide much-needed illumination. If you’re using candles, be sure to place them in a safe location away from any flammable materials.
Types of Candles
There are many different types of candles available, including:
- Pillar candles
- Taper candles
- Votive candles
- Jar candles
- Tealight candles
- Scented candles
Types of Lamps
There are also many different types of lamps available, including:
- Table lamps
- Floor lamps
- Desk lamps
- Wall lamps
- Ceiling lamps
Candle Type |
Lamp Type |
Pillar |
Table |
Taper |
Floor |
Votive |
Desk |
Jar |
Wall |
Tealight |
Ceiling |
Scented |
– |
Layering Different Textures for Depth
When creating a visually engaging display on the top of your bookcase, layering different textures is key. This adds depth and interest to the space, making it more inviting and appealing to the eye.
Create a Foundation with Books
Start by placing a few books in the center of the bookcase, creating a base for your display. These can be books you love to read, coffee table books, or even just books with interesting covers.
Add Greenery
Bring life and freshness to your display by adding some greenery. Choose small plants or succulents in interesting pots or planters to add a natural touch.
Incorporate Artwork
A small piece of artwork can add a focal point to your display. Choose a print, painting, or photograph that complements the colors and textures of your other items.
Display Mementos
Make your display more personal by adding some meaningful mementos, such as travel souvenirs, family photos, or favorite objects. These items will evoke memories and make your display more unique.
Illuminate with Candles
Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere by adding a few candles to your display. Choose candles in different sizes and scents to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
Accessorize with Decorative Objects
Fill in the empty spaces with decorative objects, such as vases, figurines, or sculptures. Choose pieces that have interesting shapes, textures, or colors to add visual appeal.
Display Collections
If you have a collection of items, such as seashells, stamps, or figurines, use the top of your bookcase to display them. This is a great way to showcase your interests and create a unique and eye-catching display.
Examples of Different Textures |
Wood |
Metal |
Glass |
Fabric |
Ceramic |
Leather |
Stone |
Using Color Schemes to Enhance the Aesthetic
Color plays a crucial role in creating a visually appealing display on top of your bookcase. Consider the following approaches to elevate the aesthetics:
Monochromatic Magic
Opt for shades of a single color, varying in tone or saturation. This creates a cohesive, sophisticated look.
Complementary Contrast
Pair complementary colors, such as blue and orange or red and green. This contrast generates a striking and eye-catching effect.
Triadic Harmony
Use three colors that are equidistant on the color wheel. This results in a balanced and harmonious arrangement.
Analogous Affinity
Choose colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel. This creates a subtle yet inviting scheme.
Gradient Grace
Arrange colors in a gradual transition from one shade to another. This adds depth and visual interest to the display.
Neutral Neutrality
Incorporate neutral colors like white, gray, or black to create a classic and understated backdrop.
Metallic Opulence
Add metallic accents, such as gold, silver, or bronze, to enhance the glam factor and create a luxurious vibe.
Patterned Perfection
Use patterned items, such as books with colorful spines, wallpaper, or fabric, to introduce visual texture and break up solid colors. Play around with patterns of varying scales for added dimension.
Color Scheme |
Example |
Effect |
Monochromatic |
Shades of blue from navy to baby blue |
Cohesive and sophisticated |
Complementary |
Red and green |
Striking and eye-catching |
Triadic |
Blue, orange, and purple |
Balanced and harmonious |
Analogous |
Green, yellow-green, and yellow |
Subtle and inviting |
Gradient |
From purple to blue to green |
Depth and visual interest |
Mixing Antique and Modern Elements
Antique pieces can add a touch of sophistication and history to a modern space, while modern elements can add a fresh and contemporary touch to a traditional room. When mixing antique and modern elements, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose pieces that have a similar style or theme.
- Start with a few key pieces and add more as you go.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment.
9. Other Tips For Mixing Antique and Modern Elements
Here are a few other tips for mixing antique and modern elements:
- Use color to create a cohesive look. For example, you could pair a modern sofa with a vintage coffee table in a similar color.
- Don’t be afraid to mix different textures. For example, you could pair a smooth leather sofa with a textured throw blanket.
- Hang artwork that reflects both antique and modern styles. For example, you could hang a traditional painting next to a contemporary photograph.
- Accessorize with pieces that have both antique and modern elements. For example, you could place a vintage vase on a modern coffee table.
- Don’t overdo it. A few well-chosen pieces can go a long way.
Antique |
Modern |
furniture |
furniture |
lighting |
lighting |
rugs |
rugs |
accessories |
accessories |
Experimenting with Asymmetrical Arrangements
Asymmetrical arrangements create a dynamic and visually interesting display. To achieve this look, place tall and short objects on opposite sides of the bookcase. For example, you could place a tall vase on the left side and a stack of books on the right side. You could also experiment with placing objects at different heights, such as hanging a picture frame above a stack of books.
Here are some tips for creating asymmetrical arrangements:
- Use a variety of heights and shapes.
- Place objects off-center.
- Experiment with different groupings.
- Add personal touches, such as photos or souvenirs.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Here are some specific examples of asymmetrical arrangements:
Arrangement |
Description |
Tall vase on the left side, stack of books on the right side |
This arrangement creates a sense of balance and asymmetry. |
Picture frame hanging above a stack of books |
This arrangement adds height and interest to the bookcase. |
Collection of small objects arranged on a shelf |
This arrangement creates a cluttered but visually interesting display. |
How to Decorate the Top of a Bookcase
The top of a bookcase is a great place to add some personality to your living space. Whether you choose to display books, plants, or decorative objects, the right arrangement can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you decorate the top of your bookcase:
-
Use odd numbers of objects.
-
vary the heights of your objects.
-
Use different objects to add interest to your display.
-
Leave some negative space around your objects.
-
Don’t be afraid to change things up.
By following these tips, you can create a stylish and personal display that will make your bookcase a focal point of your room.
People Also Ask
How do you display books on a bookshelf?
There are many different ways to display books on a bookshelf. Some people like to arrange them by color, while others prefer to group them by genre or author. You can also display books vertically or horizontally. no matter how you choose to display your books, make sure that they are upright and that they are not too tightly packed together.
What are some creative ways to decorate the top of a bookshelf?
There are many creative ways to decorate the top of a bookshelf. Some people like to use plants, while others prefer to display decorative objects. You can also use the top of your bookcase to store baskets or boxes. No matter what you choose to display, make sure that it is something that you enjoy looking at.
How often should I change the decorations on my bookshelf?
How often you change the decorations on your bookshelf is a matter of personal preference. Some people like to change them seasonally, while others prefer to change them more frequently. If you are bored with the way your bookshelf looks, don’t be afraid to switch things up.