One of the most visually interesting and stylish ways to display books on gallery-style shelving is to arrange them in a stack, to create a pedestal for decorative pieces.
'Layer books both horizontally and vertically to create height variation, introduce a sculptural element, and leave intentional negative space,' explains Brittany Rediger, Founder & Principal Designer of Oregon-based Rediger Design. 'This gives the eye a place to rest and keeps the gallery from feeling overworked.'
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It's also key when you're using box-style shelving like Diane Keaton's to bring in a variety of shapes and forms in your display to create contrast.
'Because box shelving is built on strong right angles, contrast is key,' explains Brittany.
'Incorporate rounded or organic forms such as vases, art objects, or even trailing plants to soften the grid and add movement. Lean artwork, overlap frames slightly, or place a smaller object in front of a larger piece to avoid a flat, lined-up look.' She also advises following the 'rule of three, since odd-numbered groupings feel more dynamic.'
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Of course, part of the appeal of Diane Keaton's gallery shelving lies in the cohesive color scheme. Brittany adds:
'A cohesive color story elevates the entire installation. Monochromatic styling can make a bold statement by highlighting form and texture, while repeating two to three tones throughout creates rhythm and visual flow across the shelving.'
