While, in a digital world, there is no disputing the popularity of ebooks, nothing beats the three-dimensional masterpiece of the printed version. For many, it’s simply the feel of the pages in their hand, and it’s a thing of beauty – the covers, the pages, the images.
And who can deny the sophistication of a bookcase that displays your favourite titles, converting any space into a reading room, a room of reflection.
But books don’t have to be restricted to a study. Here are some handy tips on how to store and showcase your library for your family and guests.
For an industrial look, you could use an old water pipe as a shelf – the dark iron is really creative. You could also create a shelf that allows you to hang your books on a line, but bear in mind that heavy books can’t hang out in the same way as paperbacks.
A practical solution is floating shelves, where you can stack a few books of the same genre on top of one another. For something more cost-effective and urban, you could stack crates as bookcases. This earthy tone will instantly warm up a room.
If you are lucky enough to have access to an antique refrigerator, stacking books in there will make a real statement. Or you could spice up a bookshelf by framing it with a large brassy picture frame, making it look as though you have a huge painting of a pile of books. You could even repurpose an unused grand piano or rowboat by laying shelves inside.
There are also some innovative DIY ideas: a bookshelf in the shape of a tree, with each branch holding a stack of books; an old step ladder, or two, with shelves between them; or, for teens, two skateboards on the wall as shelves for books.
Finally, create a little reading nook with a simple, small bookcase and a cosy bench with pillows, at a window, where you can read in natural light.
Image: iStock
Leave a Comment