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Collected Works

June 23, 2009 By Merri Cvetan Leave a Comment

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I love books and read as much as my time allows.  My favorite author is Jane Austen and my all time favorite book is Pride and Prejudice.  I’ve read it a dozen times!  I collect antique editions of classic children and adult novels (my oldest copy of P & P was published in 1892), vintage etiquette and entertaining books and interior design books from every decade.  I read the classics and the others are great for resource and inspiration.

Books make charming and lovely displays.  A new acquaintance walking into your home will instantly discover a bit of who you are just by reading the titles of your collection.  But they can also become unwieldy and messy if you don’t have a plan.

There are several ways to organize your book collection without looking like the local library.

  • Arrange books by author or subject if you need to find a particular edition quickly.
  • Books laid horizontally acts as bookends

    Design books on the top shelf, etiquette books below

Framed photos in various sizes offer a nice contrast to old books

Framed photos in various sizes offer a nice contrast to old books

    By simply elevating the books at the left of the top shelf, makes the display more interesting.

    By simply elevating the books at the left of the top shelf, makes the display more interesting.

  • Choose color or size to create an interesting display.

  • Stack books vertically and horizontally for added interest.

  • Stagger books for depth and to create little pockets for display.
  • Find unique items for bookends.
  • Worn antique book covers are a great contrast to cut glass dishes!

    Cut glass dishes can serve as book-ends

    Cut glass vases really stand out against the dark wood stain

    I love the contrast of the vintage book covers and beautiful glass

  • Display books with another collection.  Family photos are a perfect pairing with hardcover volumes.  Art work of any sort offers a nice contrast too.

Vintage books look great with children's artwork

Vintage books and children's artwork are creative combinations

Books are great for elevating pictures.  Great displays have different heights

Books are great for elevating pictures. Successful displays have different heights

Filed Under: Interior Design ~Chic Tips, Post Tagged With: Artwork, Books, Display, Furniture~Chic, Interior Design, Interior Design ~Chic Tips, Photographs; Bookshelves

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