Alessandra Silva Interior Designer

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Using Books as Decor: Creative Ideas for Styling Your Home

Books are a source of knowledge and entertainment and make fantastic decor elements for your home. Incorporating books into your interior design adds a touch of personality and sophistication. This article will explore the benefits of using books as decor and share creative ideas to inspire you. Whether you have a vast collection or a few treasured volumes, there are endless possibilities to showcase books in your living space.

Book displayed in a book shelf and on the console table.

Benefits of Using Books as Decor Elements:

  • Books add character and create a literary atmosphere in your home.

  • They showcase your interests, passions, and personality.

  • Books can serve as conversation starters and spark intellectual discussions.

  • They bring warmth and a sense of coziness to any room.

Creative Ways to Incorporate Books into Your Home Decor:

1. Stylish Bookshelves:

Bookshelves are a classic choice for displaying books. Opt for floor-to-ceiling bookcases, floating shelves, or built-in units to accommodate your collection. Arrange books both horizontally and vertically for visual interest. Mix in decorative objects, such as plants, framed photos, or small sculptures, to add variety to the display.

2. Coffee Table Stacks:

Transform your coffee table into a stylish focal point by stacking a curated selection of books. Choose books of different sizes and colors to create an eye-catching arrangement. Top the stack with a decorative item, like a candle or a vase, to complete the look. This not only adds visual appeal but also provides reading material within arm's reach. 

3. Colorful Book Arrangements:

Love or hate but this idea might work for those people who are very creative and has a extravagant personality and like organising their stuffs through color. Organize books by color to create a vibrant and visually pleasing display. Group books with similar spine colors together, creating a gradient effect or a striking contrast. Play with the color palette to match your overall decor scheme. This technique can turn your book collection into a stunning art installation.

Books in the bookshelf.

4. Book Nooks and Reading Corners:

Designate a cozy corner in your home as a book nook or reading corner. Place a comfortable chair or a window seat along with a small side table. Surround the area with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves or stack books on nearby surfaces. Add a soft throw blanket and a reading lamp for an inviting atmosphere. This dedicated space encourages relaxation and indulgence in your favorite books.

5. Wall-Mounted Book Displays:

Utilize wall space to create unique and visually appealing book displays. Install floating shelves or wall-mounted book racks to showcase your favorite reads. Arrange the books in an artistic pattern, such as a diagonal or staggered arrangement. This not only saves floor space but also adds an element of surprise and style to your walls.


Tips for Choosing and Arranging Books as Decor:

  • Consider the overall color scheme and theme of your room when selecting books for display.

  • Mix different sizes and genres to create visual interest.

  • Don't be afraid to experiment with unconventional arrangements or book orientations.

  • Balance books with other decorative elements to avoid a cluttered look.

  • Use the rule of 3 to create harmony in your design.

  • Regularly rotate and update the books on display to keep your decor fresh and engaging.

  • Use Canva or another site where you can create collages, take a photo of your wall where you would like to style and add the books, plants, vases and other decor elements. This way, you will be able to visualize better the entire composition.


Using books as decor elements in your home is a creative way to express your personal style and infuse literary charm into your living space. Whether through stylish bookshelves, coffee table stacks, colorful arrangements, book nooks, or wall-mounted displays, books offer endless possibilities for unique and visually appealing decor. Choose books that resonate with you, arrange them thoughtfully, and let your home reflect your love for literature. 

Image 1 - Object decor on top of a pile of three books creating a composition.

Image 2 - Books are displayed along other objects with different sizes and textures.


Books are a fantastic idea to show off your love for reading while adding a touch of personality to your home. But hey, just like in any good story, there are a few plot twists to watch out for.


Let's dive into the world of using books as decor and make sure we avoid some common mistakes!


1. Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover (Placement):

You might be super excited to stack books like a pro, but make sure you don't overdo it. Avoid placing stacks of books on every available surface; you're decorating, not creating a literary obstacle course.

2. The Dusty Dilemma:

Ah, the age-old issue of dust. Books are magnets for dust bunnies, my friend. So, while that dusty look might work for an antique bookstore, it's probably not the vibe you're going for at home. Regular dusting is your secret weapon.

3. Balance is Key:

Books are fabulous, but remember you're styling your home, not a library. Balance out your book decor with other items like plants, art pieces, or funky knick-knacks. It's all about finding that perfect harmony.

4. Size Matters (Sometimes):

Big books, small books, we love them all. But when you're styling, consider the size of the books in relation to your decor. A tiny book next to a massive vase might look a bit odd.

Always place them considering the furniture. On console/center table is more commom to have them lying down while on shelves both standing and lying down are recommended. Mix and match them considering the objects around them.

5. Ignoring the Reading Vibe:

While the aesthetic is important, don't forget the real reason we love books – to read them! Keep your book decor functional. You want a cozy space where you can actually grab a book and lose yourself in its pages.

6. The "Too Much" Cliffhanger:

Ah, the temptation to keep adding books until your decor looks like a library explosion. But remember, sometimes less is more. A few well-chosen books can have a more significant impact than an entire bookshelf crammed with titles.