Bookshelf Inspiration: Create Your Perfect Shelf

Now that the spring is here, one of my favorite things to do is to refresh my home by taking a moment to reinvent my bookshelves. It seems that throughout the holidays and drab winter months, clutter and dust appears more so than before, not to mention I just get bored with the look my home.

This is your chance to take some time to get get organized, throw out the old, and allow your creative side to emerge. However, getting your shelves to look just right is sometimes easier said than done. How do you arrange your things so they aren't just one big jumble of craziness?

It can be tricky to find that perfect balance, but here are some simple ideas to keep in mind:

• Keep It Simple—this is a great time to go through the shelves and get rid of the items you no longer love or make you happy

• Change Things Around—customize your shelves by laying books horizontal to build height and add colorful pieces of artwork…perhaps an interesting piece you collected in your travels

• Decorative Boxes—incorporate boxes and basket throughout your shelves. Not only do these add a new element to your scheme, but are a great way to increase storage

• Wallpaper—make your bookshelf pop with an interesting design by wallpapering the back area of your bookshelf. Not a fan of wallpaper? No problem, use paint instead to give that backdrop a splash of color

• Accessories—integrate plates, pictures or artwork to add dimension

When it comes to styling a bookshelf, remember there is no wrong way to do it. This is your chance to have some fun and let your creativity flourish as you try new things.