When it comes to styling a bookcase, I've long believed that there's no such thing as too much. A place designed to hold even the vastest collection of books, I've never held back when adding spines to my shelves.
A long-established way to showcase a library of editions, bookshelf ideas typically feature an array of books packed from one end to the other. While I've long used my shelves to showcase as many books and decorations as possible, Lily Collins' minimal bookcase has convinced me that the less-is-more approach can work just as well.
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Lily's bookcase may at first seem simple, but when you gaze longer at the display, its intention becomes clear. Featuring plenty of books (of course) stacked unconventionally, it's a lesson in paring back your bookcase and creating a minimal yet still homely arrangement.
Abstract in shape, this contemporary glass vase will instantly elevate your bookshelf. Place it in a cubby hole like Lily or prop it beside a stack of books, and you'll have a modern arrangement that feels artfully styled.
Of course, Lily's bookcase is filled with an array of books. Plenty of hardback spines grace her shelves, stacked in small bundles. To recreate the look, opt for design-led editions like this timeless interior design book that will bring an artful edge to your display.
Placed at the center of Lily's bookcase is a charming wooden statue, much like this nostalgic nutcracker ornament from McGee & Co. Whimsical and filled with character, this simple little accessory brings visual interest and a homely feel to the shelves.
Billy bookcase will always be an icon for a reason. It's so adaptable and is used in a myriad of viral IKEA hacks to create some really impressive custom designs. Plus, the color way is completely Lily-inspired.
This sleek, polished pair of zebra marble bookends will bring an exotic yet refined feel to our shelves.
Mango wood and ample height make this an effortless piece to display books and miscellaneous items in.
If you've ever asked yourself 'How do you design a bookshelf?', Lily's simple yet impactful display might provide you with some inspiration. Despite edging on the more minimalist side, her bookcase proves that pared-back designs can feel just as homely and sometimes even more stylish than displays that lack in cohesion.
A few things make Lily's shelves unique. First, her cube-style storage is a refreshingly modern take on the traditional bookcase. Scandinavian in style, this simple alternative allows you to group editions depending on the topic, author or even cover. An unexpected styling approach, the second surprising thing about Lily's shelves is how little they're filled. Intentionally keeping each cube half-filled, the bookcase feels well-balanced and pleasing to the eye.
Lastly, but by no means least, Lily reinvents typical bookshelf styling by positioning her books horizontally rather than vertically. An unexpected yet rather impactful way to add some visual interest without overwhelming a bookcase, Lily's method would be perfect for a bedroom bookshelf.
Simple but artfully curated, Lily's bookcase is a lesson in paring it back but still designing with intention and personality. Although unconventional, her display feels just as homely as any other traditional bookshelf and is the perfect way to hop on the bookshelf wealth trend in 2026.
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