If you are a minimalist, you may have struggled to make bookshelves look the way you want them to. They can be tricky to style in a minimalist fashion because there is so much space to fill and most examples out there are the opposite of minimalist. However, there are definitely plenty of ways to make bookshelves look beautiful with a simple, clutter-free look.

It comes down to being clever with the decor you choose and how you place it throughout the bookshelves, as well as taking into account the color of the bookshelves and palette of the room itself. Choosing cohesive (especially monochromatic) colors will help create a more streamlined look that suits minimalism.

Here are 10 examples of minimalist bookshelves to give you a variety of ideas.

Minimalist Bookshelf Inspiration

Color blocking adds visual interest to this built-in bookcase while keeping with the clean, minimalist look.
Source: My Domaine

A stunning wallpaper behind the shelves and large, well-placed decorative pieces make this bookcase compelling yet simple.
Source: Architectural Digest

For a cleaner look, always opt for larger pieces of decor grouped together in vignettes. The white pieces also blend into the bookcase itself for a more streamlined look.
Source: Style At Home

The decor on this bookcase is mostly black in white with just a few pops of color for a minimalist vibe.
Source: Inside Closet

The lighting and gorgeous color blocking of books sprinkled with artistic decor make for an incredible accent wall.
Source: Behance

The black wall and beautiful wood shelving take center stage while the interesting pieces of decor complement them beautifully.
Source: Chris Loves Julia

Want to house all of your books but still have a monochromatic, minimalist look? Cover them all in white paper.
Source: Desire to Inspire

The white floating shelves blend right in with the wall, as does some of the white decor.
Source: Muramur

How cute and simple is this set of bookshelves?
Source: Solebich

A spotted wallpaper looks ultra chic and fashionable. The minimal decor complements it without making it look too busy.
Source: Domino

Decorating bookshelves in a minimalist style is totally possible as demonstrated by these beautiful examples.

Warm regards,
Megan