There is no such thing as a casual book collection. Whether it is the two books that you bought at an airport five years ago or every Hemingway volume arranged chronologically, the books you collect and the books you choose to keep speak volumes (pun intended!) about you, while setting the tone for your home. You will need a place to keep all these books, and a neat solution to that storage problem can be a point of focus in your home – be it in your living room, bedroom, study, or anywhere else in the house.

(L-R) Scandinavian and Contemporary bookshelf

Your book-abode may be anything from a cupboard to a shelf, but it will help to make sure it fits into the aesthetic of the room you have it in. If you would rather have something modern or contemporary, then impassive designs made with metal, glass, and laminate are the way to go. The designs, materials, and styles available are innumerable. Minimalist, traditional, rustic, industrial – make sure you pick something that fits your décor style. Try experimenting with leaning, modular, and corner designs, and don't shy away from something quirky or unconventional.

(L-R) Contemporary and Trendy bookshelf

The way you arrange your books will become just as important as the place you are keeping them in, and the most important thing to remember is to have fun with it. If you have a series of books, or multiple volumes of a collection, experiment with how you order them. There is something strangely satisfying about an assortment of books placed in the order you choose, and it doesn't always have to be logical.

Classic bookshelves

If your room is classically styled, shelves framed with wooden mouldings and detailed cornices will help to enrich it. Not everything in the bookcase needs to be functional – or even relevant. Ultimately, it is an element of your home that can be fully customised. Your reading list is very personal and significant to you, and the home for your books can be tailored to celebrate your individuality. Bookcases are more than just a place to keep books – try adding to them with vases, picture frames, miniature statues, souvenirs, televisions, or absolutely anything else you want.

“Imagine what it would be like to have a bookshelf filled only with books that you really love. Isn't that image spellbinding? For someone who loves books, what greater happiness could there be?”

-Marie Kondo, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

Share how you store your books with us @discernliving on Instagram and Twitter, and don't forget to tag #discernliving