Bookcases can look pretty bland and boring if there's nothing but stacks and stacks of books on the shelves. Styling the shelves should add another dimension to the room, and it will look as though there's another window to your house.

Why not try these brilliant ideas for decorating the bookshelves?

1) With detailed visuals and patterns

Use photos with lovely frames to create a striking visual. You may also consider putting only the frames, especially if these are colorful and detailed. They will create a pattern that will look like decorative art against the wall. For a different idea, try covering the inner part of the book shelves with preferred wall paper or wall applique designs.

2) With balance and symmetry

Create balance and symmetry by mixing and matching pieces like vases, statues and figurines and other framed art along with the books. Follow a repetitive pattern in the use of color and different sizes. You can even alternate the way your books are placed, by arranging these horizontally and vertically, according to Knotting Hill Interiors.

3) With color palettes

Paint the shelves a different color from the rest of the room's wall so that it stands out. The color could also give the shelves depth and richness, according to House Beautiful. You could also choose to arrange books based on their cover or sleeve's color, or use decorative pieces in similar shades, to create palettes on your shelf.

4) With a focal point

This works best for smaller and narrower book shelves, where you assign decorative pieces on the top shelves and then use the bottom shelves exclusively for the books. This way there's a focal point to your arrangement, but the style will not make your shelves look cluttered or bulky.

5) With lighting

Adding scones and gallery lights will bring more appeal to the shelves. They're not just great for accents, they can be functional too, as it will be easier to browse for books with lights around them. There's a good selection of bookcase lights at IKEA.

For other design ideas, check out: Home Improvement: 5 Ways To Decorate That Blank Wall At Home (PHOTOS) or Coffee Table Style Tips: Decorate Like A Pro With These 5 Coffee Table Must-Haves.