Windows and bookshelves can complement each other beautifully. With smart design, you can transform the space around your windows into a lovely display for books, decor, and more. If you’re looking to add built-in bookshelves around your windows, here are 10 creative ideas to inspire you.
Built-In Window Seat
Turn a bay window into a cozy reading nook by adding L-shaped built-in bookshelves on each side. Include cabinet storage below the seat for tucking away blankets and books when not in use. The window seat tops the shelves, creating a perfect perch for reading.
Wraparound Built-ins
For a custom look, install built-in bookshelves that wrap around the entire window frame. Opt for shelving on both sides as well as above and below the window. You can even add a window seat or desktop. It’s a great way to make use of all that space.
Display Shelves in Arches
Give your window an elegant shape by designing display bookshelves to mimic arched windows. Cut shelving to fit the curve and style with bookends, frames and other pretty accents. It’s sure to catch the eye.
Corner Shelves
Take advantage of angled space on either side of a window by installing corner shelves that meet at a 90-degree angle. You can even add lower cabinets for hidden storage. It’s perfect for displaying houseplants, books and other reading nook accessories.
Floating Shelves
For a light, airy look, opt for floating shelves mounted to the wall around the window. Stagger shelves at different heights for visual interest. Floating shelves are easy to install and keep windows looking open.
Window Box Shelves
Incorporate rustic window boxes under your window for charming open display space. Line them with foliage or fill with decor. For a bookshelf effect, stack multiple boxes or crates in decreasing sizes.
Window Bench Seat with Shelves
Combine seating and shelving in one window-side piece. Build a bench seat with bookcases on either end or a hutch-like top. It provides both display space and a comfy spot for admiring the view.
Window Panel Bookshelves
Flanking a window with built-in panel shelves—complete with molding—creates the look of framed window panels with shelving between. Opt for glass doors to continue the visual flow.
Rustic Wood Ladder Shelves
Lean rustic wood ladders against the walls on either side of a window for casual display space. Hang the ladders directly on the wall or mount them onto a ledger board for extra support.
Window Box Cornices
Outfit your window with charming box cornices on all sides. The flat tops are perfect for displaying rows of books and decor. Cornices also allow light to filter in from above.
With a little creativity, the space around windows can be transformed into the perfect bookshelf display. Any of these built-in shelving ideas are sure to amplify the coziness and character of your reading nook.
FAQs about Bookshelves Around Windows Ideas
Whether it’s out of preference or simply due to a lack of space elsewhere, it’s worth considering, but you may be concerned if it would look clunky or block out natural light. Fortunately, it’s possible to avoid both of these potential issues by only partially covering the window with the bookcase.
Arrange Books by Height
The top shelf can have tall books on the left, low on the right. The shelf underneath should be the opposite: Tall books on the right, low books on the left. Let the pattern continue all the way down.
To add interest to your reading materials, alternate stacking books horizontally and vertically. One of the best ideas for decorating bookcases is to use accessories as bookends. Boldly colored accents and picture frames make great bookends and stand out on neutral shelves.
Consider placing artwork towards the back of the shelf and layer smaller decorative items in front — using the depth of the shelf will create interest.
Mix up book placement.
Put an item on your stack.
Decorate in odd numbers.
Consider adding a vase of things.
Add metallic accents.
Stand back and edit.