I’ve been looking into bookshelves for some time; trying to figure out what to put in my living room that won’t make the already small space look even smaller, cluttered and more congested.  While I’m leaning towards the pipe and pine bookshelf (see #3), I appreciate elements from all of the below and might incorporate ‘here and there’s from each.  Color coding my hardback books will definitely reduce the appearance of clutter and serve as a pop of color in my so-far neutral living space.  I’ll post some pictures when I get my shelves up!  Until then, enjoy the bookshelf inspiration:

Although I think it would make finding the book you need a little more difficult, I love the look of the backwards facing books.

Deep, dark, moody and slightly masculine but not overly so.  I could never do this much gray and black but I love the simplicity and unexpected aesthetic of the look.

My soon to be shelves.

For the cook book collector… Although if you’re one who likes to read at the table over breakfast and such, a kitchen/breakfast nook might be the ideal place for your book shelf.  Design, for me, is all about what works for you; functionality over formality. 

The above bookshelf is that of fellow Houstonian and author of the blog The Semi-Designed Life. 

[Apartment Therapy]

From [small shop studio] blogger Erika’s home….

[design darling].

[Coco+ Kelley]

Stacks vs. Shelves…