Interior designer Jeremiah Brent, known for his work on Netflix’s “Queer Eye,” shared his expert tips on styling bookshelves in a recent interview. In a public library, filling a bookshelf with books is a no-brainer, but at home, it takes a bit more finesse.
Brent views bookshelves as three-dimensional wallpaper that adds visual interest to a room. He suggests using them as a “cabinet of curiosities” to showcase your personality and tell your story. In his Manhattan home with husband Nate Berkus, their den bookshelves are always changing, filled with design books, family photos, and children’s artwork.
To achieve a curated look, Brent recommends selecting favorite books with attractive covers and categorizing them by theme. Instead of lining books up in rows, he suggests stacking them horizontally and vertically to create visual interest. Mixing in personal objects collected over the years adds depth and meaning to the display.
Creating balance is key, according to Brent. Mixing tall and short, light and weighty objects helps avoid a cluttered or empty look. For a finishing touch, he suggests hanging interesting pieces of art on the front of the bookcase for a layered effect.
In the end, Brent emphasizes that there are no strict rules when it comes to styling bookshelves. It’s all about experimenting, playing with balance, and incorporating pieces that hold personal significance. So next time you’re looking to spruce up your bookcase, take a cue from the pros and let your shelves reflect your unique story.
