| When dressing a bookcase it is all about line, | | | | way up. Adding smaller books and/or items as |
| balance and scale! Typically a bookcase is the | | | | you go. |
| focal point in many rooms and should be given | | | | Look for decorative accessories to place in |
| proper attention. Consider weeding out any books | | | | between groupings of books. Accessories should |
| that are worn and tattered.. In fact, remove all | | | | always be placed in groups of one, three or five |
| paperbacks and store where they will not be | | | | with the taller items behind. Adding a plant is a |
| seen. (These are not decorative items and should | | | | nice touch and instantly softens the harsh lines of |
| not be showcased.) Save only the best looking | | | | a typical bookcase. If you do not have a green |
| and most referenced books. | | | | thumb, purchase a fake plant. There are many |
| Positioning large items toward the top of the | | | | beautiful and realistic silk greens available today. |
| bookcase will give the appearance of being | | | | Step back and view your progress as you go. |
| top-heavy and make the piece look unstable. | | | | One shelf may hold only books while another |
| Huge mistake! Position largest books and | | | | showcases family photos. Be creative and view |
| decorative accessories on the lower shelves. This | | | | your bookcase as another opportunity to |
| not only places the "visual" weight where it | | | | showcase your favorite pieces. It can also |
| belongs but helps anchor the piece. Start loading | | | | become a dramatic focal point in a drab, boring |
| the bookcase from the bottom and work your | | | | space. |