A ladder bookshelf can create a great storage option if you’re looking for something that combines form and function. I love that they are such a versatile piece – you can use them in an entryway, an office, a bathroom, or the living room. The styling and decor opportunities are also nearly endless. If you’re looking at ladder bookshelves but you’re not sure how to decorate them, I am sharing some of my suggestions below along with some visual examples of different styles.
1. Choose a Cohesive Color Palette
If you want your bookshelf to feel like a cohesive design choice, it might be helpful to choose a particular color palette or theme for your shelves. In the above photo, a warm, neutral palette is used along with contrasting shapes and textures to create a look that looks very intentional. If you have a lot of books you want to display, you can pick book covers that match your color theme and stack them (as shown above) or stagger them along your shelves.
When you’re choosing a color palette, not everything needs to be the exact same shade. In fact, it’s better to mix up the shades of the color that you’re using and incorporate neutrals (like white or black) so that it doesn’t look too match-y or bland.
2. Feature a Variety of Textures
If you can, try to incorporate a variety of different textures and items on your bookshelf to create visual interest and variation. The photo above does exactly that by incorporating different textures on every single shelf. If you look at each shelves individually, you can see that each one is it’s own mini vignette with 2-3 different elements that alternate among the shelves. Play with different textures by incorporating ceramics, metal, plants, books, frames, and glass within your shelves.
If you have the space, you could also incorporate multiple ladder bookshelves like the one above to create a focal point on one wall of your room.
3. Don’t Forget Storage
Ladder bookshelves can serve double-duty if you include options for storage on one of the shelves. If you’re planning on trying this, I would opt to include a basket or storage bin on the bottom shelf to conceal anything that you don’t want out in the open. You can also use smaller storage bins on the top or middle shelves, but I would definitely put anything heavier towards the bottom.
Where to Buy
If you’re looking for a great ladder bookshelf option, there are some affordable ones on Amazon that are easy to assemble and come in a variety of styles. I actually bought my bookshelf from Amazon and it’s held up well after multiple moves.
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Kiera Grace Modern 5-Tier Wood Ladder
Nathan James Theo Modern Bookshelf
No matter what option you decide to go with, a ladder bookshelf can be a great opportunity to showcase your own creativity and style. With so many different styles of bookshelves and decor items, you really can’t go wrong.
Keep in mind that this style of shelving can also be moved from room to room if you decide that you would prefer it in a different space. It can also be modified based on different holidays or seasons. My best advice: enjoy yourself and have fun picking out unique items that you want to have on display.
