If you’re looking for a way to add character and charm to a room, consider creating an ornate bookshelf as a centrepiece. An ornate bookshelf can be a beautiful and functional addition to any home, providing valuable storage space and enhancing the overall design of a room.

If you’ve always wanted to create a stylish bookshelf as a centrepiece to a room, we’ve put this guide together to help you get the most eye-catching results.

Choosing the Right Style

The first step in creating an ornate bookshelf as a centrepiece is to choose the right style. Consider the decor of the room and choose a style that complements it.

For example, if the room has a traditional decor, choose a bookshelf with ornate mouldings and carvings.

If the room has a more modern decor, choose a bookshelf with sleek lines and minimal embellishments.

An ornate bookshelf can add character to a room and draw the eye. But a piece of furniture that goes against the prevailing style can clash and and become an eyesore.

So take your time to choose a style that fits your personal style and taste.

Fitted or freestanding?

You are likely to have an idea whether your ornate bookshelf will be fitted or a freestanding unit in a room. Of course, with a fitted bookshelf, you’ll need to drill the shelves and supporting brackets or corbels into the wall.

The benefit of a freestanding ornate bookshelf is that you can move it around or even remove it if you need to.

This will likely depend on the availability of space in your room or even what purpose you want the bookshelf to serve.

Is it literally going to be a place to store books? Or is it also going to hold ornaments, trinkets and photographs?

A fitted bookshelf can add extra storage or options for display within a room, especially if you have limited floor space.

Adding Decorative Elements

Once you have chosen the right style of bookshelf, the next step is to add decorative elements.

Adding corbels, brackets, and rosettes can enhance the look of an ornate bookshelf and create a custom piece that is unique to your home. When choosing decorative elements, consider the size and style of the bookshelf.

Large corbels or brackets can overpower a small bookshelf, while small corbels or brackets may look out of place on a larger bookshelf.

What are corbels? Read our guide….

You can also choose decorative elements that match the rest of the decor in the room. Adding decorative elements will show off your personal style.

Creating the Perfect Display

Once you have added decorative elements to your ornate bookshelf, the next step is to create the perfect display.

Organise and display items on the bookshelf to create a cohesive and polished look. Consider placing books in groups of two or three, and interspersing decorative items such as vases, picture frames, and candles throughout.

You can also add lighting to the bookshelf to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the room. Creating the perfect display can take some time and experimentation, but the end result will be a stunning centrepiece that enhances the overall design of the room.

DIY Tips for Creating an Ornate Bookshelf

Creating your own ornate bookshelf can be a cost-effective and custom way to add character to a room. Here are some DIY tips for creating an ornate bookshelf:

• Measure the space where you want to place the bookshelf and choose a size that fits the space.
• Mark where you want to attach the corbels or brackets and ensure that they are level.
• Attach the corbels or brackets using screws or nails and ensure that they are securely attached.
• Paint or stain the bookshelf to match the rest of the decor in the room.

In summary

Creating an ornate bookshelf as a centre piece can be a beautiful and functional addition to any home. By choosing the right style, adding decorative elements and creating the perfect display, you can make a stunning, functional centre piece that enhances the overall design of the room.

Browse our range of corbels to support your shelves and mantels.