I have a book dilemma. Despite giving away hundreds of books last year, my bookshelves are overflowing. So I’ve taken to stacking my coffee table books and collections around the house. On tables, on floors. They looked fine, but I never really looked at them as much as I wanted to. Right now, I need them on some sort of shelves so I can see them and pull out just the one I want instead of hunting around. So the question is, would you go for a traditional book case, like these – only in white to match the room best:
(why, yes, they are on sale!). These would take up more space than I wanted to in the only room they could go in, but fit in with the traditional look of my house. Another option for these bookcases would be shelves on top and cabinets on the bottom.
The other option would be this more contemporary shelving from Design Within Reach, which I would get in white, like the top option:
The first one fits in with my home better, but takes up a lot more space. The second one is less expensive, although I would need two of them, and takes up less space. Also, the second one sort of “disappears” once filled.
You ladies have the best taste I know, so I’d really appreciate your help here. Weigh in ladies – traditional or space saving? Thanks!
Best,
Stephanie
I much prefer a traditional look so I'd be going for the first one, although all the bookshelves we have (in the game room and Kristen's room) are 'Billy' bookshelves from Ikea- I love them.
ReplyDeleteWhat 'trim" are you talking about matching? surely not your door trims?
I am no authority on decorating, but I like the bookcase better.
ReplyDeleteSUCH a tough decision! At the end of the day, I think I'm leaning towards the more traditional bookcase, plus, it would be fun to style with other items aside from books.
ReplyDeleteGiven the fact that my house is tiny, I'd go for the second option so that my books look like columns... You could even color coordinate the bindings for an interesting effect!
ReplyDeletexxoo
i am kind of a traditional girl. especially when it comes to book shelves. i have been trying to clear out some too. good luck.
ReplyDeleteI guess I'm a bit of a traditionalist....so I vote for the 1st one. And, I love books mixed in with objets de art that reflect what you love and lend a curator's look to your bookshelves.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year and happy organizing!
xo Elizabeth
I would definitely go with the first one and just make it the focal point of the room. Bookcases filled with favorites add such a personal touch to any room. Can't wait to see which you choose!!
ReplyDeleteDef the first, but that's just me!
ReplyDeleteI have no place for bookcases. I designed this house with too many windows and not enough wall space!
You know me I'm very traditional I'd go for the first although you can go on pinterest and find some other interesting ideas
ReplyDeletei like traditional so i pick #1 :) let us know how you make out! xo suz
ReplyDeletethe first one... those fancy ones never work that well and end up being a waste of money
ReplyDeleteDefinitely traditional. I think if you took the contemporary, it wouldn't fit in with other traditional pieces and you might regret it...just my opinion!!
ReplyDeleteI always prefer a more traditional bookshelf. There's just something about the life of a book, histories, imagination, traditions.. I don't know. I feel a book belong in a proper old fashion bookshelf. :p Have a wonderful day! And happy anniverserie!
ReplyDeleteI prefer the more traditional bookshelf. I love bookshelves where the books are mixed with objects and some books are standing while others are layered on their sides. I love the look of bookshelves and they absolutely warm a home. But that's just me and I look forward to seeing what you choose. XO
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