This little living room project turns a pair of brass magazine holders into stylish bookends with built-in greenery by simply laying them on their sides and sliding small faux succulent pots inside. It’s one of those satisfying, low-effort ideas that looks much more custom than it really is, and I’m always a fan of decor that comes together faster than a weeknight dinner.
I especially love this for anyone who wants a polished shelf or console-table accent without worrying about watering real plants or doing any complicated building. If you like decorating with books, cozy metallic touches, and a bit of greenery, this is an easy afternoon project that makes the whole room feel more finished.
Materials
Instructions
1. Wipe both brass magazine holders with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust, then polish them lightly if they look dull or spotted.
2. Set each magazine holder on its long side so the open pocket faces inward toward the books and the flat outer panel acts as the bookend side.
3. Measure the opening of each sideways holder and check that your faux succulent pots slide in comfortably without forcing them.
4. Add felt furniture pads to the bottom edges and back contact points of each holder so the brass does not scratch your shelf or table.
5. Arrange a row of books between the two holders, leaving enough space so the books stand upright but still look relaxed and lived-in.
6. Slide one faux succulent pot into the open side of each brass holder until it sits securely and the greenery peeks out from the end.
7. Center the pots so they look balanced, then nudge the books and holders into their final position until everything feels even and sturdy.
8. Step back and adjust the styling with a few horizontal or vertical books if needed, keeping the succulent ends visible for that finished planter look.
Variations & Tips
For picky decorators: If bold greenery feels like too much, use faux succulents in soft sage or dusty green tones for a calmer look that blends in with most living rooms.
Pot fit tip: Lightweight plastic nursery-style faux pots usually slide in more easily than chunky ceramic ones, so bring a ruler when shopping if you can.
Shelf-safe setup: Don’t skip the felt pads. In a busy house like mine, little protective details save furniture from scratches when someone bumps the books.
Color variation: If your magazine holders are tarnished beyond polishing, you can spray-paint them in a warm metallic finish, but let them cure fully before placing them near books or fabric.
Styling idea: These look especially nice anchoring cookbooks, decorating books, or family photo albums on a console, built-in shelf, or living room side table.
Budget shortcut: Check thrift stores for older metal magazine holders. Matching pairs are lovely, but even similar shapes can work if the finish and size are close.