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Thursday, February 23, 2023

How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves

If you read my previous post, you know I decided I needed to repaint the built in bookshelves that are next to the narrow stairs that go up to my lofted library. Just about seven years ago we removed a shelf here to have taller shelf space and I painted the bookshelf a light grey color, the same color as my great room wall. The shelf was originally a dark, glossy, reddish brown color and I wanted to lighten them up.
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
Fast forward seven years and I have repainted the light grey wall and have phased most of the grey out of my home. Dark. moody, black rooms and walls, and bookshelves are trending and I am here for it. I think when black is paired with warm woods, and rattan, and textures that it is much warmer than a cool grey or bright white.
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
I don't always jump on the trend train, but if I like it and if it is something relatively inexpensive and easy to change like paint, then I am all for it. But, I hope you all know trends come and go and you should decorate and style your home in the way that you love. If you want to try trends, try them in small ways--paint, accessories, pillows.
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So, I removed everything from the shelves, cleaned them and painted them black. FYI, I do not like this bluish, grey carpeting, but not sure it is changing anytime soon. I might get a runner for the stairs...
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
Keep reading to get tips for styling shelves. If you read my previous post, you saw that I gathered different items from around my home and from my thrift store finds and put them on a black background, a sweater, to see if I would like the colors and textures I wanted against the black background. I gathered way more items that I ended up using. I knew I wanted wood, green, antique brass, old books, family photos.
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
After gathering items, start placing them where you think you will want them and take pictures. Looking at a picture helps you to better see what works and what doesn't. 
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
Here was one of my first stylings. I removed some items, moved some, added and deleted.
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
Repeat elements!! I have wood on all the shelves, green, antique brass. 
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
Layer items and place smaller items on a plate, tray, or bowl to make them look less cluttered. Create smaller vignettes on shelves and vary the heights of objects so that eyes move from item to item. some symmetry is okay, but remember that the rules of three is more pleasing to the eye. Do not center items in the middle of the shelf. Place some items at an angle, but do not angle everything. 
How to Style Dark & Moody Bookshelves
Peek-a-boo--photographing mirrors is never easy. Adding this thrifted, bamboo light really gives the bookshelves a warm glow. Is there an outlet on these shelves? Nope! Instead, I wrapped up the cord and tucked it behind the lamp and used a MAGIC lightbulb. It is a rechargeable lightbulb that comes with a remote. You can BUY IT HERE. I love it--it has three different brightness settings and is perfect for a spot you need some light, but don't have an outlet.

Come back tomorrow and I will share more about the individual items on these bookshelves--what I thrifted, what I made or changed, and why it works. 

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