What to know before you choose bookcases
Bookcases are more than storage—they’re personal style statements. Whether filled with novels, ceramics, or a mix of books and beautiful things, these open shelves tell the story of you.
A bookcase typically has a more solid, grounded design with enclosed sides and adjustable shelves. An etagere, on the other hand, is the airier cousin: a tall, freestanding shelving unit with open sides and delicate lines. Both serve the same purpose—elevating and organizing your favorite objects.
Use them to divide a room, display a rotating gallery of curios, or organize a library corner. Pro styling tip: mix vertical and horizontal stacks of books, layer in vases or bowls, and leave a little breathing room for that effortlessly curated look
How do you select a color palette for vintage bookcases?
Choosing the right color palette for your is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your . Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
Understanding the color wheel: green
Green may be one of the most versatile colors in design. It is a common hue in all design styles and room types. Soft greens like sage, olive, or mint can bring an instant sense of calm or serenity to a space, while bright greens like lime or chartreuse bring a sense of whimsy or retro tone. The use of deeper green hues like pine or emerald are hallmarks of more traditional design styles.
Green is often associated with nature, so consider using it as a foundation for a nature-inspired color palette. Pair different shades of green with earthy tones like browns, beiges, or muted yellows to create a serene and organic atmosphere.
If you want to make a bold statement with green, consider painting an accent wall in a rich shade of green or using green wallpaper. This can create a focal point in the room and add depth and visual interest. Alternatively, you can opt for a more subtle approach by incorporating green through smaller decor elements like curtains, throw pillows, or artwork.
Lighting can dramatically affect the perception of green. Natural light tends to enhance the freshness and vibrancy of green, making it feel more alive. In artificial lighting, warmer tones can deepen the richness of darker greens, adding coziness to the space.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to bring green into your space is through indoor plants. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also purify the air (win-win!). Choose a variety of plants with different shades of green and textures to create a lush and vibrant indoor garden.
How do you pick a design style for a green bookcases makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
All about vintage design
The vintage interior design style is a nostalgic nod to the rich history and diverse aesthetics of the 20th century, dwelling in the sweet spot between the new (made within the last 20 years) and the antique (100+ years old). This style is defined by its mix of furniture and decor drawing from various decades. Eclectic vintage interiors blend various elements—textures, time periods, styles, trends, and colors—all woven together to create an ambiance that is both familiar and endlessly intriguing.
To create a vintage aesthetic in your, choose softer, muted tones and gentle pastels for your base color palette and layer in patterns, textures, and colors of yesteryears. At its heart, vintage design is about the stories that objects tell, each piece a memento of a bygone era. So get out of the house and on the hunt (who doesn’t love a vintage thrift find?).