Turning Shelves Into Statements

The Art of Bookshelf Styling: A Personal Touch to Interior Design

One of my favorite parts of being an interior designer is the opportunity to style bookshelves—especially when my clients have beautiful antiques and heirloom pieces to showcase. It’s a process that goes beyond mere decoration; it’s about telling a story and creating a space that feels truly personal.

Bookshelves are more than just storage—they’re a canvas for layering history, texture, and personality. When styling, I aim to create a balance of function and aesthetics. For this particular project, my client’s collection of antiques, vintage books, and meaningful heirlooms provided a wealth of inspiration. Items like an antique clock, delicate glassware, and framed family photos not only add character but also connect the client to their space in a deeply personal way.

I layered these unique pieces alongside classic elements, like books arranged both vertically and horizontally, to provide structure and variety. Incorporating items like vintage decanters, sculptural ceramics, and cigar humidors brought warmth and dimension to the room while complementing its overall design aesthetic.

The result is a set of bookshelves that feel intentional and lived-in, blending practicality with visual charm. Whether it’s the client’s favorite antique or a new piece added to complement the collection, these shelves reflect a space that’s both functional and full of memories. For me, it’s always rewarding to see how something as simple as a well-decorated bookshelf can make a house feel like home.