A new interior design trend is emerging, quickly taking over social media and home interiors. Bookshelf wealth isn’t new, and while it never went out of style in some circles, it’s currently having a resurgence. Find out what bookshelf wealth is and how to incorporate this design aesthetic into your space.
What is Bookshelf Wealth?
Bookshelf wealth is simply a shelf filled with abundant and eclectic items. Booklovers have long appreciated the look of a series of shelves overflowing with books and decor items. This look is now gracing social media feeds and home decor blogs and being interpreted in homes all across the globe.
Origins of a Trend
Minimalism has been on trend for several years but is fading in popularity. As one trend goes away, it is replaced by something completely different and maybe even the opposite. The uncluttered surfaces, limited decor items, and often neutral tones of minimalism are replaced by an eclectic mix of objects, patterns, colors, and textures.
Bookshelf wealth aligns with this maximalist trend by turning shelves into a cozy space and giving the room a relaxed ambiance.
Bookshelf Wealth Styling Tips
To bring this trend into your space, you need shelves and stuff to put on those shelves. While the name of the trend is bookshelf wealth, you can use any shelving or a mantle. Take inspiration from this trend when decorating a console table, desk, or other areas in your home.
The books on display matter. Choose books you enjoy and often re-read or books you received as gifts. Feature books with lovely or inspiring cover art, but remember that this isn’t just about books.
Wealth of Memories
Each shelf is like a shadow box showcasing books alongside items that have meaning. The meaning can be sentimental, or you can select items that just look cool. Fill shelves with a carefully curated collection that can include books, mementos, trinkets, decor items, framed photos, houseplants, and anything else that fits on the shelf and brings you joy.
This trend aims to make the final result look natural and organic but not chaotic. Don’t try to fit as many books as possible on the shelves like a library, but rather make it look like items were randomly and aesthetically organized. Place some books vertically, but stack some horizontally.
Mix Things Up
Books are a big part of the look but include other items. Break up rows of books and prop artwork or framed photos on the shelves. Place a ceramic figurine, paperweight, or wooden bowl on a shelf. Small items may fit in front of a row of books, or use bookends to break up a row. Place a vining plant like a Baltic Blue Pothos on a high shelf, and let the stems cascade down.
It’s Personal
You can still find inspiration in bookshelf wealth even if your book collection is limited or you’re not into books. Display vinyl records on a shelf and make sure to turn some of the records so the album art is on display. Turn one shelf into a minibar and feature some of your favorite bottles, or use a vintage decanter and glassware. Create a space you want to inhabit. The area should be a natural focal point and welcoming.
Incorporate the Vibe into the Room
Once you have a highly curated bookshelf, bring that sentiment into the rest of the room. Use the bookshelf as a centerpiece and organize furniture around it. Add lush throw pillows to a chair or couch draped in a comfortable blanket. Create a cozy spot to sit and enjoy a good book and admire your bookshelf.
Bookshelf wealth is about surrounding yourself with things you enjoy and creating a comfy, lived-in atmosphere. It is a way to display a collection of items that may not hold monetary value but definitely have personal meaning. There is no right or wrong way to style a bookshelf as long as you intentionally choose items that inspire and hold meaning.