We’ve been in our house for almost two years and I am slowly checking off my decorating list. The bookshelves were at the top of my list when we moved in and needed a facelift. There are two sets of shelves flanking the fireplace and when we moved in they were stained dark. The contrast between the bookshelf and wall was so stark and a real eyesore. They needed to flow with the wall and be brightened up.
Before…
After…
I had the bookshelves painted in my go-to white, Benjamin Moore Simply White and it made such a difference. Here’s a picture from Christmas with the shelves white and fully decorated.
After Christmas I looked at the bookshelves and felt like they were still a little flat. They needed more color so I thought about painting the back wall a bold color. I also considered wallpaper and looked at a few bold patterns but everything seemed to fight with the accessories and my floral ottomans. Then I considered a textured wallpaper and grasscloth was the perfect solution. It added just the right amount of color and texture to the shelves to bring them to life.
I lined the back of each bookshelf with this peel-n-stick navy poplin texture wallpaper (affiliate link). Because it’s peel-and-stick, it can easily be removed when the mood strikes and I want to change the look. And a single roll was only $45.
The wallpaper resembles a tweed fabric and has a really nice texture. I also like how the subtle pattern and color enhance all of my blue and white accessories.
It took me and Mr. Confetti about an hour to install the paper and then I starting accessorizing.
I removed one shelf on each side to open up the area and allow more space for my accessories to shine. Then I strategically placed the decor until I had it just right. Accessorizing bookshelves is one of my favorite things to do but it can take a little finesse until you get the perfect flow.
The Best Rooms Always Have Something To Say About The People Who Live In Them. ~ David Hicks
I’m really happy with how the bookshelves look now. The only other changes I’m planning to make is to switch out the picture frames and replace the clock. It feels good to cross that project off the list.
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If your bookshelves need a facelift here are my styling tips to help you create a beautiful bookshelf display.
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If you need some new books to add to your bookshelf, check out my latest round-up of new design & entertaining books.
If you have freestanding bookcases, here are tips on styling the tops of bookshelves.
