Adventures in Bookcase Styling

A couple of weeks ago, I shared my bookcase makeover, and while the exterior work was a task in itself, the real challenge came when it was time to accessorize them.

The sight of an empty bookcase is a little daunting.  So, I started by painting the back of the bookcases a strong contrasting color.  This instantly begins to "fill" them.  I also love the look of wallpaper (or even fabric) on the backs. 

Since these bookcases are in our family room, I decided to fill them with personal items, but to also mix in accessories that I liked and of course, books.  Alot of people feel strongly about only displaying books that they've actually read.  I like to use mainly old books in great colors.  So, have I read all of the books on my shelves?  I have three small kids.  What do you think? :)

I think the key to good bookcase styling is the same as accessorizing the rest of your home: keep it simple.  While bookshelves can be a nice place to display collections, I like to choose fewer, larger pieces to mix in with books and photos, rather then cramming lots of "things" into a small space.

Of course, the real secret to bookcase styling is to try, try again!  Here's what my first attempt looked like:

While not terrible, something just seemed off to me.  The first step was to bring in more books--an obvious, but sometimes overlooked, solution. 

The red frames and coral were also bothering me, so I removed them.  I wanted a more cohesive look so I gathered some gold/bronze accessories I was no longer using and got out the spray paint:

 Is this an inventive drop cloth or what?!

I also added a large silver tray amid the black & white photographs on the top, just to break up the straight lines and to add height.

My formerly bronze pineapple became one of my favorite pieces:

My dad recently gave me one of his old paint-by-numbers; I like the color that it adds:

Finished, for now: