I ordered cherry cabinets for my husband. Were a fair expense for the wood. Don't think I will paint. Nice idea though.

Most ideas I read are to have a staggered look: of books then vase then meaningful photo...... go to Home Goods store!
houzz - "symmetry bookcase décor" was my search.

I have searched many home stores but haven't really found a lot of stuff that I like but I'm not giving up!! I will continue my search. Not sure if you're understanding my meaning of symmetry so I'll show you an example

Each side mirrors the other side.

LOL houseatthelake- I thought you were going to put mirrors on each side??? noticed I stayed away from commenting on that lol. NOW, I get it, you just want each side to look the same. I do not know your location but do you have a Hobby Lobby? They have many items to fill your shelves and carry in bulk;)

We have a similar situation in our media room. I ordered cd/dvd sized baskets for some of the shelves. These I interspersed with decorative items and then placed dvds on end as I would books on other shelves. The baskets (could be boxes) tend to calm things down visually, and can conceal clutter. Also, a fairly cost effective alternative!

Don't be scared to incorporate more than just books to the shelves. Bookshelves are a great way to showcase your personality. Here's a snap from one of our recent projects. We say get creative with fun tchotchkes! :)

Tuesday Morning is super-cheap & you can often find good shelf fodder there. Also, try some estate sales in your area. I got beautiful Franklin Mint books for $5 at one where I live!

I think some symmetry is good, but your example is over-kill. It's lacking soul IMO. You can balance items with the same visual heft without slavishly making each side matchy-matchy.

I like very much your acorn? statues on the top shelf. Plates on stands also can add interest without breaking the bank.

Try taking out if you can one set of shelves for taller items and so less amount of items total [less cluttered a look too].

Aha, I was thinking the same thing about mirrors as Margo. Seeing that you wish to highlight the cherry wood, how about beginning with some books you may already own and cover them in white paper, then begin styling the shelves. I think it would be nice to remove one or two of the shelves on each side of the bookcase in order to display your items in a more open and less cluttered space. Notice there are only four shelves per side in your inspiration photo. Then use the one third decor, one third books, one third open space that the Houzz community recommends. Should be a fun project to reflect your taste and personality.

Great minds must think alike! LOL I had taken one shelf out on each side out but then I had two shelves sitting around here not knowing where to store it so I put them back.

tallest at center, etc. http://www.wayfair.com/Novica-The-Juli-Astiti-3-Piece-Beaded-Nesting-Boxes-210072-210073-NVC2277.html


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