Decorating with Books

A good book can do more than expand your mind, entertain, or inform. A good book can also find a place in your decorating scheme whether it is in the family room, living room, bedroom or bath. Books lend a feel of substance and are solid. Books contain things we need and are traditionally thought of as sources of information. In other words, through time we have come to look upon books as ever ready sources of inspiration, knowledge, and comfort. Books are solid and provide anchor points in a room.

Traditionally, books have been found on shelves and on book cases. Lined up neatly, often times by author, subject, size or even color, books typically called out of the way and specialized spaces their home. However, as items continue to be pressed into duty serving in some untraditional ways, books too have been called upon to come down off shelves and book cases and become part of decorating schemes. Books are now placed where family and guests may easily pick one up and begin to browse the pages. As casual themes find their way into just about every home and style, books are also making the transition as they find new usefulness on coffee tables, end tables, and even floors.

A very effective use of books is random stacking. Take for example a large coffee table in a den or family room. These rooms are the hub of activity second only perhaps to the kitchen. Family rooms and dens are a composite of the many interests, hobbies, and activities in which a family is involved. Books are an excellent addition to such an environment. Large bound "coffee table" or special interest books may be chosen which reflect the travels, sports, and hobbies of different family members. Stack these books randomly where they take their place as a testament to the family. Guests will enjoy thumbing through the pages and will sure to evoke conversation.

End tables are also suitable for stacks of books which are a reflection of the interests of the family themselves. As every reader needs a light by which to see, consider utilizing a stack of books to hold a lamp. This will not only provide a source of light, but a source of conversation as well. Continue to expand on the basic idea of books in a gathering room. Consider how books anchor a room as mentioned before, and where the room needs a weighted feel.

Bedrooms are often times good locations for books and stacks. Many people enjoy reading before going to sleep as a means of relaxation. Consider a bed side lamp positioned on some favorite titles to lend light to evening reading. Bathrooms are also good places for book stacks. Humorous titles, quotes, words of wisdom and other short subjects are right at home in the bath.

Don't hesitate to use books throughout the home. If you have small children, this will serve a double purpose in reminding them that the internet is not the only source of information and reading material. When books are readily available children will often times pull one onto the floor and begin flipping through the pages. It is never too early to get children hooked on books and reading.