How to Style a Tree Bookcase in Your Living Room

In recent years, the tree bookcase has become a standout trend in modern interior design and for good reason. Shaped like the branching limbs of a tree, this unique shelving unit blends form and function, offering a creative twist on traditional storage. Its sculptural silhouette adds visual interest to any room, transforming a simple bookshelf into a statement décor piece. More than just a place to stack your favorite reads, a tree bookcase serves as both practical storage and eye-catching art.

In this article, we’ll guide you through clever and stylish ways to incorporate a tree bookcase into your living room, helping you strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.

Choosing the Right Tree Bookcase for Your Living Room

Picking the perfect tree bookcase isn’t just about finding a cool design—it’s about making sure it fits seamlessly into your space, both visually and practically. Here’s what to consider before you hit “buy”:

Consider Size and Proportions

Start by measuring the wall or corner where you plan to place the bookcase. Tree bookcases come in various shapes—tall and vertical, low and wide, or even creatively asymmetrical. If you’re working with a smaller living room, avoid oversized models that can make the space feel cramped. A well-proportioned bookcase should enhance the room, not overwhelm it.

Match the Material and Color with Your Existing Decor

Tree bookcases are available in a range of materials like solid wood, MDF, or metal frames. The best choice depends on your interior style.

For example, natural oak or walnut pairs beautifully with rustic or earthy themes, while black metal suits modern industrial spaces. Painted finishes like white or sage green are great for minimalist or Scandinavian-style rooms, adding a fresh, clean touch without being too bold.

Placement Tips for Visual Balance

Where you place your tree bookcase can make a big difference in how it looks and functions in your living room. It’s not just about finding space—it’s about creating harmony in the room and letting the bookcase shine without overwhelming the surroundings.

Use It as a Focal Point

A tree bookcase naturally draws the eye, so use it to anchor your space. Position it on a blank wall where it can stand out, or near a cozy reading chair or beside the sofa to create a stylish reading nook. Just be careful not to surround it with bulky furniture or overly decorative pieces that compete for attention. Let it be the star of the corner.

Maximize Natural Light

If possible, place the bookcase near a window. Natural light helps bring out the textures of the materials and the colors of both the shelves and the items you display on them. It makes the space feel more open and inviting. If you’re working with a darker corner, consider adding a nearby floor lamp or integrated shelf lighting to keep it from feeling too heavy or lost in the shadows.

Styling Your Tree Bookcase — Aesthetic Tips

A tree bookcase is already a statement piece by design, but how you style it can elevate it even further. The goal is to strike a balance between beauty and function—so it looks curated, not cluttered. Here’s how to style your shelves in a way that feels intentional and effortlessly stylish.

Mix Books with Decorative Objects

Don’t feel like you need to fill every shelf with books. In fact, alternating between vertical and horizontal stacks can add rhythm and variety. Add in decorative bookends, small sculptures, vases, or even framed photos to break things up visually. Just remember to leave some “visual breathing room” between items so your shelves don’t look overcrowded.

Add Greenery for a Natural Touch

Leaning into the “tree” theme, a few well-placed plants can bring your bookcase to life. Try small potted plants or trailing vines like pothos that echo the branching shape. Succulents are great for low-maintenance greenery, and if your bookcase sits in a low-light area, high-quality faux plants can work just as well.

Use a Consistent Color Palette

To keep things cohesive, stick to 2–3 accent colors across your objects and books. Use neutral tones—like white, gray, or beige—as your base, then introduce one standout color, such as navy blue, mustard yellow, or emerald green, to give the shelves personality without visual chaos.

Layer Heights and Shapes

Avoid placing objects that are all the same height or shape. Vary things with a mix of tall candles, short stacks of books, framed photos, or round ceramic bowls. A tree bookcase lends itself well to asymmetry, so don’t aim for perfect balance—let your eye travel naturally across the shelves. The variation is what makes it interesting.

Functional Styling Considerations

While it’s tempting to treat your tree bookcase purely as a decorative piece, don’t forget its original purpose: storage. With a few smart styling choices, you can keep it beautiful and practical especially in a busy living room.

Keep Everyday Books Accessible

If you regularly grab certain books—cookbooks, kids’ stories, or current reads—place them at eye level or within easy reach. Reserve the higher and lower shelves for display pieces, photo frames, or seasonal décor that you don’t need to access as often. This way, your bookcase stays functional without disrupting the overall design.

Use Storage Baskets or Boxes

Not everything on your shelves needs to be on display. Woven baskets or decorative boxes are great for tucking away less-attractive essentials like remote controls, spare chargers, or coasters. They help reduce visual clutter while keeping things organized and close at hand—proof that function and style can absolutely go hand in hand.

Lighting to Highlight Your Tree Bookcase

Good lighting can make your tree bookcase look even more stunning especially in the evening. Whether you want to create a cozy vibe or simply draw attention to the shelf’s unique shape, the right lighting setup can take it to the next level.

Use Accent Lighting or LED Strips

LED strip lights are a simple but effective way to give your bookcase a soft, ambient glow. You can place them along the back edges or underneath each shelf to subtly highlight your décor items. For more focused lighting, try clip-on book lights—they’re compact, easy to adjust, and perfect for spotlighting specific sections or objects.

Floor Lamps or Sconces

If you prefer a more traditional lighting option, place a floor lamp near the bookcase to create a warm, inviting corner especially useful in the evenings. For a more polished look, consider installing wall sconces on either side of the bookcase. They not only provide balanced lighting but also help visually frame the shelf, making it feel more like an intentional design feature.

The Art of Styling a Tree Bookcase in Modern Living Rooms

A tree bookcase isn’t just a piece of furniture—it’s a chance to express your personal style while keeping your living room organized and inviting. From choosing the right size and materials to finding the perfect placement, thoughtful decisions can help your bookcase feel like a natural part of your space. Styling with intention—mixing books, décor, greenery, and using a cohesive color palette—brings personality, while functional elements like accessible shelving and hidden storage keep things practical. Don’t forget the lighting: even subtle additions like LED strips or a nearby floor lamp can completely transform the look and feel.

When styled well, a tree bookcase can become the heart of your living room—a cozy, curated spot that tells your story. Give these tips a try, and don’t be afraid to get creative. If you do, we’d love to see your results! Share your setup in the comments or tag us on social media with your favorite look.