When dealing with tall ceilings, it can be challenging to make furniture look proportional. Here are some strategies to help your bookcases look more fitting and stylish in your space:
1. Add Height to the Bookcases
- Bookcase Risers: You can use risers or platforms beneath the bookcases to give them additional height. This can be a simple DIY project or you can purchase ready-made risers.
- Crown Molding: Adding crown molding to the top of the bookcases can create the illusion of extra height. This not only makes the bookcases appear taller but also adds a touch of elegance.
2. Draw the Eye Upwards
- Tall Decor Items: Place tall plants, vases, or sculptures on top of the bookcases or on adjacent surfaces. This helps fill the vertical space and creates a sense of continuity.
- Artwork and Mirrors: Hang large pieces of art or tall mirrors above the bookcases. This draws the eye upward and makes the space feel more cohesive.
3. Break Up the Space with Horizontal Lines
- Horizontal Shelves: Installing horizontal shelves above the bookcases can help break up the vertical expanse of the wall. This visually shortens the wall and balances the proportions.
- Horizontal Stripes: Painting a horizontal stripe or using wallpaper with a horizontal pattern behind the bookcases can create the illusion of a lower ceiling and add interest to the space.
4. Styling the Bookcases
- Mix of Items: Use a combination of books, decorative items, and personal mementos. This adds visual interest and prevents the shelves from looking too uniform.
- Varying Heights: Arrange items of different heights together to create a dynamic and visually appealing display.
- Empty Space: Don’t overcrowd the shelves. Leaving some empty space helps to create a more balanced and sophisticated look.
Example Arrangement:
- Top Shelf: Tall decorative vases or plants.
- Middle Shelves: Mix of books, framed photos, and smaller decorative items.
- Bottom Shelf: Heavier items like large books or storage baskets to ground the bookcase.
Final Touches
- Lighting: Adding some strategically placed lighting, like a floor lamp or sconce above the bookcases, can highlight the height and add warmth to the space.
- Consistency: Ensure the items on the bookcases complement the rest of the room’s decor to create a cohesive look.
By implementing these strategies, you can make your bookcases look more fitting and stylish in your space with tall ceilings.