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Books as decoration

The Roman philosopher Marcus Tullius Cicero said: "A room without books is like a body without a soul."

I love rooms that are filled with books, books and more books. There is nothing that creates a sense of warmth and invitation more than a room full of books. They offer a sense of serenity and add visual interest. Rooms that have incorporated books into their decor offer a personal point of view in decorating, as each book offers a glimpse into the mind of the homeowner. Decorating with books is great because they are a useful item and always look great in almost any style of interior. Sometimes a room that looks lifeless can be brought out of its funk just by adding some books.

Books can be used in every room of the house as decorative accessories. In the library, they are de rigueur, but nowadays books can be used in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms.

Even if you are not a booklover, books have a way of grounding a home. Books never go out of style, so they are a good investment for your interiors and your wallet.

Books can be used and displayed in many ways. Here are some suggestions.

Of course, there is the old standard of books in a bookcase. A wall of books is a classic way of showing off your collection and says the owner of this home loves books.

Books can also be stacked like tall columns to give the appearance of real columns in a room and enhance the architecture.

Books can be stacked on tables just like an old library table or used as a base for a sculpture or a beautiful orchid in a cachepot. A stack of pretty books you love says, "Welcome!"

Special books can be opened on a stand or table to show them off as a decorative accessory. Larger coffee table books can be displayed prominently, while smaller and paperback books should go into bookcases or storage.

Bookends flanking a group of books can add a finishing touch to a fireplace mantle or an upright piano.

A nonworking fireplace can be outfitted with shelves as a place to hold books. This will also create a focal point.

Books can be stacked upon each other and topped with a glass for an instant side table - perfect for resting your favorite cocktail.

Some like their books in their multicolored bindings. A recent trend has been to gather coordinated book covers to create a coordinated color scheme. The latter is a great way of adding a punch of color.

Books are great as fillers for cupboards and windowsills. In a kitchen, books can be added to the cookbook cabinets.

Low bookcases can be used to create a demarcation or division of functions and space within a room.

Other ways to use books in your decor: Turn a stack of books into a lamp base. Hollowed books can be used as planters for small succulents or as storage boxes.

• Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Florida.

© 2015, Creators.com

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