How to Style a Curated Bookshelf the Pupsi Home Way

There’s something about a well styled bookshelf that makes a space feel truly lived in. It’s not just about stacking books spine out or arranging them by colour. It’s about storytelling. It’s about personality. And at Pupsi Home, it’s where we let a little bit of the unexpected sneak in.

Right now in my dayroom, there’s a shelf I walk past every day that makes me smile. Not because it’s perfect, but because it’s completely me. Books I actually read. A little vintage wooden bear I picked up at a flea market. A couple of chunky candles. A vintage money pig. And tucked behind a book on seventies interiors, a tiny felt mushroom from a friend. Random? Maybe. But totally intentional.

Here’s the Pupsi Home rule when it comes to bookshelf styling
One thing should always be slightly odd

We don’t do stiff and showroom. We like warm, collected, personal. And the odd thing is what makes it sing. It’s the one item that stops your shelves from looking like a Pinterest copy and gives them a bit of your own charm. Think a lobster figurine next to your Penguin classics. Or a hand-painted plate propped up behind your travel books. It’s that unexpected twist that makes people lean in and look a little closer.

If you’re searching for interior design help in London or Reigate, or you’re styling a new home or having a room refresh, this is your sign to start with the shelves. You don’t need a full refurb to feel at home. You just need layers. Personality. Play. And a bit of Pupsi magic.

Here are our top tips for styling a curated bookshelf the Pupsi Home way

1. Start with books
   This might sound obvious but use books you actually love. Stack them vertically and horizontally. Mix up sizes and colours. No need to colour code unless that’s your thing. Books bring soul and make a space feel alive.

2. Add art
   Frame a postcard. Prop up a print. Tuck in a tiny canvas. Art doesn’t have to hang on a wall. Let it live among your objects.

3. Vary heights and textures
   Layer in ceramics, glass, wood, linen. Mix tall and squat shapes. Add little bowls or sculptural candles. This is where your eye gets to travel.

4. Use something odd
   This is the Pupsi twist. That one unusual object that doesn’t quite fit but somehow makes the whole thing come together. Maybe it’s a vintage toy, a holiday souvenir, or a wobbly handmade thing you couldn’t leave behind. It keeps the whole look from feeling too serious.

5. Step back and squint
   Honestly. Do this. If your eye lands on one heavy corner or it feels a bit too neat, shuffle things. This is not about perfection. It’s about balance, movement and interest.

If you're looking for interior design help in Reigate or need an interior designer in London to help bring these layers to life, Pupsi Home offers creative and approachable home styling that celebrates your own story. From full room transformations to mini refreshes, we’re here to help you feel confident about your space and actually enjoy the process.

Bookshelves are just the beginning
If you're stuck, or want someone to cast a fresh eye over your room, start with The Spark – our intro service designed to get your ideas moving. If you’re wondering where to even start with interiors, this kind of low-stress, high-impact styling is where Pupsi really shines.

To book your discovery call and to explore our interior design packages, head to my contact us page and drop me a message.

And remember
When in doubt, add a tiny bear