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Spring Refresh: Here’s How I Transformed My Built-In Shelves

Dark wood built in shelves decorated with plants, art and other accessories.
Courtney Naray

As the seasons change, I love giving my home little updates to reflect the fresh, vibrant energy of spring. One of my favorite ways to do this is by restyling my built-in shelves. This year, I wanted to bring in warmer tones, natural textures and a bit of playfulness to make the space feel bright and inviting. Here’s how I transformed my shelves for spring.

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Artwork of landscape in between a plant and books on shelf.
Courtney Naray

Updating the Artwork

The first step was replacing my monochrome artwork with something that felt more in tune with the season. I chose a wildflower landscape in a gold frame, something full of soft greens and delicate floral details. This one simple change instantly shifted the mood of the space, making it feel more alive and fresher. Art is such a powerful way to set the tone of a space, and I love how this piece adds a sense of lightness.

Gold accent accessories placed in front of books and a hollow circular vase.
Courtney Naray

Swapping Chrome for Gold

I’ve always loved the clean look of chrome and silver, but as we move into the spring and summer months, I wanted something a little softer and warmer. I started by removing the chrome pieces and planned to introduce warm gold and brass tones instead. Little details like brass candle holders, gold trinkets or a gilded picture frame can make a big difference in warming up a space.

Four books all in different shades of green placed on shelf next to an artwork.
Courtney Naray

Replacing Blue With Green

Blue is one of my favorite colors; but for this refresh, I wanted a more nature-inspired look. I began by removing the blue tones in my book collection and replace them green. To complete the book refresh, I took a trip to the thrift store in search of hardcover books in various shades of green. I’m a huge of thrifting books; not only is it budget-friendly, but it also helps me discover many unique titles. This time, I picked up books on gardening, interior design and even a few on art history—topics that inspire me and fit perfectly into the aesthetic I was creating. Green feels fresh, calming and perfect for spring.

Potted plant stacked on books next to a clock.
Courtney Naray

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A Playful Plant Swap

I love having plants in my space, but the snake plant I had felt a little too structured for this new look. I was craving for something with a more whimsical, free-flowing shape. A lush pothos coupled with a young monstera adds that perfect touch of liveliness. Here’s a trick I like to use for combining plants: keep them in separate tiny grow pots within a larger decorative pot. The playful movement and variation in the leaves complements the natural theme I was going for.

White roses in geometrical vase.
Courtnye Narray

Fresh Flowers for a Seasonal Touch

Nothing says spring like fresh flowers, so I made sure to incorporate them into the shelves. I moved one of my planters and replaced it with a tall propagation stand filled with white roses and eucalyptus. The combination of delicate blooms and fresh greenery made the space feel bright and airy.

With just a few thoughtful changes, my built-in shelves now feel refreshed, inviting and full of spring energy. It’s amazing how small updates can completely transform a space. Now it’s your turn!

Final look of the transformed built-in shelves for spring.
Courtney Naray

 



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