Charming nooks for books... and more!

I am absolutely crazy about books (as many of you must know, by now)...... I'm a huge collector of new and old tomes, and I love incorporating them into all of my decorating fixes. For me, creating an eclectic bookshelf is simply an extension of my mantel, or my dining room table... or nearly any surface, really! It's just one more place for me to create an interesting vignette... with or without books! These particular bookshelves flank the fireplace in our den... so we wanted them to feel utterly rustic and charming. We deliberately used rough hewn pine boards to add warmth and character to our space. Then, atop each shelf, like icing on the most delicious cake... I've perched a variety of little vignettes! I love mixing them up quite often... These are quick and simple changes you can do in an afternoon, or after the kids have gone to bed... Just gather all your goodies around you, and dive right in!! I try to infuse a little fantasy wherever I can... a colorful enameled box, a silver tea set, a vintage glass cordial set, a mouthwatering lamp, a piece of child's art... Keep it as unique and personal as you dare... then, of course, layer in all the books you can handle...... Kiss, kiss!