When I stopped by my sister’s house the other day I found her staring at her bookshelves.
I could tell by her look that she was not liking what she was seeing.
She felt like a lot of us do when we try to style our bookshelves…
something was just not right.
(I am sure Lauren wants to kill me for sharing pictures of their house while it is still not unpacked- sorry sis!)
Right side BEFORE:
Left side BEFORE:
This little abstract work of art came from my nephew Nash.
Don’t forget the color a little canvas and some finger painting can add!
By splitting up the books we were able to break up some of the visual weight on the left side
and add color to both shelves.
A little greenery snagged from Lauren’s yard.
Just by “shopping” Lauren’s house, we were able to find everything on the shelves.
We stole from her dining room table, kitchen cabinets, and her stash of pictures.
Once we came up with some groupings that worked,
we were able to see some spots where she may want to add a thing or two down the road.
I gave her some ideas of what to shop for
so that the next time she is browsing HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, or Target
she knows to keep an eye out for a shallow rectangular dish.
Now wouldn’t it be nice to go into one of those stores with an actual purpose?!
And here is a (very) rough mock-up I gave her to help guide her visually…
Elizabeth @ The Little Black Door says
You are one good sister. 🙂 It looks great!
Rachael says
Great balance!! Especially love the old birdcage.
x Rachael
arunawaymuse.blogspot.ca
Kim@Chattafabulous says
Just had a consult yesterday with a client who asked about bookshelf styling. There's an art to it!
http://www.chattafabulous.blogspot.com
Nancy says
Lovely Beth, good post and tips! She's lucky to have you!
xo Nancy
Powellbrowerhome.com
desingpostinteriors@hotmail.com says
It's an art for sure and I have to be in the right mood to do it!