How do you arrange your bookshelves at home? We aren’t just talking about arranging books by alphabetical author or some sort of color scheme here. Instead, we are talking about the space between and around the books. You can separate groups and themes with bookrests and ornaments related to the theme. You can also add some LED lighting to make the bookcase more inviting when stuck indoors on a dark and stormy evening. Another popular trend is to add a DIY book nook. What are book nooks and how can they add new life to a bookcase?
What Is A DIY Book Nook?
Simply put, a book nook is a fantasy world nestled between the books on your shelf. They give a sense of mystery and wonder to the bookcase by bringing in new areas of interest – both for the owner and anyone visiting the room. The intricate dioramas can depict all kinds of scenes with a sense that you are being transported to another world. The concept is said to come from a Japanese artist called Monde, who created their own back alley scenes to enhance their bookcase.
Now, there are plenty of detailed kits, along the same line as a DIY miniature house, that take inspiration from this approach. This means we can easily decorate our own rooms with challenging but satisfying puzzles. Here are 4 of the best.
1) Robotime-Rolife Sakura Densya Book Nook
This first model is a great starting point considering the country of origin of Monde. Japanese scenes will always look magical and otherworldly to anyone with a traditional bookcase in the West. This Sakura Densya book nook shows the beauty of the blossom-covered streets of Tokyo. A focal point here is the cute cream and green train at the signals, which you can’t help but want to get on board to explore beyond the confines of the scene. The individual flowers are a nice touch here, but the scene takes on a new life with the added lighting.
2) Robotime-Rolife Sunshine Town DIY Book Nook
Sunshine town is a classic design for a cozy book nook because it takes advantage of the optical illusion of a disappearing scene. The street within this city landscape appears to curve around a corner, and you can’t help but wonder what is back there. This one is going to suit a wider range of bookcases because of the more generic book shop scene. The muted tones on the pieces add to that vintage vibe of stepping back to an older era. But, there are still plenty of fun details in this adorable set, such as the signs, flowers, and little coffee mugs. Again, there is the optional lighting included.
3) Robotime-Rolife Magic House DIY Miniature House Book Nook
This next one takes a different turn aesthetically and seems more for younger audiences than the crowd-pleasing book store. There are elements to this build that make you think of a particular popular magic-themed franchise, such as the disappearing brick wall at the front and the owl perched above. But, there are elements to this scene, such as the broomstick and potions, that work with any magic-themed library. The composition of the scene is very clever with the choice of colors and the stained glass behind it. It is sure to enchant many people that come to visit.
4) Robotime-Rolife Time Travel DIY Book Nook
Finally, there is this kit for those that love to use books to travel back in time to different eras. Whether that means going back to a past century with a period piece or forward in time in a fantasy novel, you need a reliable time travel machine to get you there. So, why not build this beautiful train in its station. The locomotive is ready and waiting in its curved tunnel beside some comfy armchairs. There is also a clock above so you know you won’t be late.
Transform Your Bookcase Into A Wonderland With A DIY Book Nook.
These four book nook kits are great examples of the detail and beauty that go into some of the best designs. You can create intricate miniature worlds that are reminiscent of the locations in your favorite stories and feel a deeper urge to dive back in. Find the scene that suits you and have fun decorating your bookshelf.
