Updated Classics: Displaying Books

Discover fresh alternatives to popular design trends in our online series, Updated Classics. 

Classic Pick: Color-blocking your book collection is a no-fail way to make a vibrant statement (it dominates Pinterest for a reason!). In this living space designed by Theresa Casey, each shelf is devoted to a single lively hue, offsetting the more sedate grey-painted shelves and paneling in the space.

Fresh Spin: We spotted this low, spine-in display in our 2013 Small Spaces issue. By arranging her books in tight, neat stacks, homeowner Joanne Fletcher made the most of the space under her concrete bench, while placing them spine-in created a uniform wall of off-white pages — a quiet, unexpected look that we’re loving now.