Three ways to style: an IKEA Bookcase

It's time for another instalment of 'how to style something using stuff you already own' aka how to not spend anymore money on things you don't need (I'm predominately talking to myself here, of course...) A couple of months ago I shared three ways to style a radiator cover, so thought I'd do the same for my IKEA Hemnes bookcase which sits in the corner of our living room. 

I often find myself faffing with this corner, but never feel completely happy with it - so moving things about and 'shopping your own home' is a great way to give somewhere a bit of a refresh. The bookcase itself is quite narrow, which makes it hard to style, so to try and combat this a bit I removed the top shelf to make room for a bigger display, and to create a bit of an 'alcove shelving' feel. 

The 'before' look

I've also put together a video showing how I styled each look, which you can watch here - or keep scrolling for the images ... 

Look One - Pastel Perfection 

This bookcase has seen SO many different variations over the years, but this is its current look, and one that I'm actually happy with for once. I've gone with a big artificial flower display on the top shelf, which fits the space perfectly. Choosing a similar colour palette across all your items adds some consistency, and creates a 'theme'. For this look I popped a large candle on the second shelf, below that I've got a stack of books topped with a glass cloche, and finally a silver photo frame and neutral coloured medicine bottles sit below. 

Shelfie tip: A stack of books is a fab way to add height and colour to a shelf - choose books that have complimentary coloured spines to tie the look together

Look Two - Houseplant Heaven 

Obviously I had to try my hand at a houseplant corner! Because there's lots of green going on here, I've used pops of monochrome for some contrast, and two glass lanterns add to the greenhouse feel. I actually love the way the green goes with the pink cushions on the sofa - and if it wasn't for naughty little fingers I'd definitely be sticking with this look.

Look Three - Go for Gold 

I decided that the final look would be a 'bit of everything', and walked around the house looking for items that might work together. Completely unintentionally I was drawn to lots of gold pieces, so this one turned into a bit of a brass-fest I'm afraid! I'm actually so surprised at how much I like this look - and obviously there's Ringo the Flamingo taking pride of place! 

Shelfie tip: Style items in groups of three as odd numbers are more pleasing to the eye. Choose items of differing heights and materials (I've got brass, glass, marble and fresh flowers here) to create a interest

So there you have it - how to style an awkwardly shaped bookcase with things you already own. Which is your favourite look?

Thanks for reading,
Sam Xx

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