Styling with Books: Tips from a Book Store Owner and Interior Designer
Books are more than just sources of knowledge; they can add character, warmth, and personality to any room. As an interior designer, I love using books to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere and to inject the homeowner's unique personality and style. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Rose, the owner of Book Store Edicole, located in the iconic State Buildings, to gather some insights on styling with books.
I've taken our conversation and mixed some practical tips to help you style your home with books below.
Books do more than take up space - they significantly alter the feel of a room. Rose explained, "Books inject warmth and personality into a space. They tell a story about the occupants, making a room feel more lived-in and welcoming. Whether placed on a shelf, stacked on a coffee table, or incorporated into a kitchen, books bring versatility and depth to your decor."
When asked about the effect of books on a room’s ambience, Rose said, "Books create a perception that the space is for everybody – they make it feel approachable and inclusive."
The trend of using books as decor is influencing what’s stocked in bookstores. "We have noticed more people getting into the idea of using books as decor," Rose observed. "This trend has led to a higher demand for beautifully bound books and those with unique covers."
If you’re looking for a standout Coffee Table Book, Rose recommends the Assouline Range. “It’s not just a great read but also a timeless addition to any home.”
Overall Styling Tips:
Create a Feature Wall: “A well-styled bookshelf can be a focal point in any room," said Rose. When selecting books, consider how they will work in a space, whether stacked or standing alone - it's about the content and the cover. Arrange your books by colour, size, or subject matter for a visually pleasing display. You can also incorporate decorative items like vases, framed photos, or small sculptures for an eclectic look.
Stack ‘Em Up: Don’t be afraid to stack books horizontally, especially on coffee tables, nightstands, or consoles. Add a candle, plant, or decorative object on top to create a layered, curated look. Rose suggests, "Books are perfect for varying the height of decor pieces, adding depth and dimension to your display."
Add to Floating Shelves: Install floating shelves for a curated selection of your favourite reads. This is ideal for smaller spaces or creating a gallery-style book display.
Create Book Towers: Need more space? Stack books vertically on the floor to create a stylish “book tower,” a space-saving solution that keeps your books close at hand.
The Art of Integration: Integrate books with other decor elements to create a balanced, cohesive look. Pair them with plants, incorporate different textures, and add personal touches like framed photos or travel souvenirs for a personalised space.
Specific Styling Tips for Different Areas of your Home:
Living Room: Anchor your coffee table display with a few large books. Pair them with a tray or decorative bowl for a cohesive look. Rose noted, “Beige linen covers are trendy—they're timeless and blend well with various styles.” Mix vertical and horizontal stacks in bookcases and add personal mementos for a live-in feel.
Bedroom: Add a cozy touch with a small stack on your nightstand and a reading lamp or candle. If you have a reading nook, fill it with your favourite novels and a comfy throw for ultimate relaxation.
Home Office: Organise your professional or inspirational reads on a nearby shelf within easy reach. Display some books with their covers facing out, especially those with inspiring design elements.
Entryway: To make your entryway more welcoming, place a small stack of books on a console table. Top it with a decorative bowl for keys or a vase of fresh flowers.
Kitchen: Rose shared, “Cookbooks in a kitchen can be a delightful touch, especially to inject a pop of colour.”
Make sure to remember Selene Interiors' ethos when selecting Books for your space:
"YOUR SPACE, YOUR STYLE, YOUR STORY."
Highly Recommend a visit To Edicole the next time you visit the Perth CBD.
Pictured: My haul for the Home Office.