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Remotes, chargers, and tiny tech gadgets can turn a polished living room into a cluttered one in minutes. Hiding everyday controllers inside a faux or hollowed book is a clever, low-cost trick that keeps devices within reach while preserving a tidy, styled surface. Read on to learn easy ways to DIY a book safe, where to buy ready-made options, and how to style the result so it looks intentional, not secretive.
Why a book safe makes sense for TV remotes and small gadgets
Most homes now use multiple remotes for TVs, streaming boxes, sound bars, and game consoles. That means items pile up on couches and tables.
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A book-shaped storage piece solves three problems at once: it hides clutter, keeps devices nearby, and blends with decor. It’s a smart solution for living rooms that double as media rooms and social spaces.
Quick benefit: you keep functionality without sacrificing style.
Two practical approaches: buy or build a book box
There are two simple paths to a book stash: purchase a faux book container or craft one yourself from a thrifted volume.
Option A — Buy a decorative book box
Retailers and craft shops sell hollow books designed for storage. They mimic real spines and pages, and often come in neutral tones.
- Search terms that help: “decorative book box,” “hollow book storage,” “book safe decor.”
- Choose a size that accommodates the longest remote you own.
- Look for durable materials and a realistic cover finish.
Option B — Make your own hollow book
DIY gives you customization and a chance to repurpose a thrifted find. The project needs basic tools and a bit of patience.
Tools and materials:
- An old hardcover book
- Adhesive such as Mod Podge or PVA glue
- A craft or utility knife
- A ruler, pencil, and a paintbrush
- Optional: felt or decorative paper to line the cavity
- Pick a book several inches longer than your biggest remote. Size matters.
- Protect the front cover by inserting a sheet of paper between the cover and first page.
- Brush glue over the page edges to bind them. Weight the book and let it dry thoroughly.
- On the glued block, draw a rectangle for the cavity. Leave about an inch from the edges.
- Cut slowly, removing a few pages at a time until you reach the desired depth.
- Coat the inner walls of the cavity with glue to seal the pages.
- Line the interior with felt or paper for a polished look and to protect remotes.
How to style the book stash on a coffee table
Once you have a hollow book, placement and styling make it look intentional. Treat it like any other decorative object.
- Stack it with one or two coffee table books in coordinating colors.
- Pair with a small tray, a plant, or a sculptural object to balance the vignette.
- Keep one book on the top of the stack for quick access.
- Use a label inside the cover if multiple people need to find chargers and remotes fast.
- Match textures—linen covers work well with woven trays and soft throws.
Tip: Hide other small items too, like USB sticks, earbuds, or spare batteries.
Where to shop for realistic book storage pieces
If DIY isn’t your thing, look in these places for ready-made options.
- Home goods retailers and lifestyle shops offer faux book sets made for decor.
- Online marketplaces list hand-crafted hollow books in many styles.
- Thrift stores and antique shops are great for unique hardcovers to transform.
- Craft stores carry blank book boxes you can paint or embellish.
Search using phrases like “decorative book box” or “hollow book storage” for best results.
Small details that elevate the hack
Make the book-safe feel curated by attending to finish and function.
- Line the cavity with soft fabric to protect electronics.
- Seal cut edges neatly to avoid fraying pages.
- Coordinate the book cover with your room’s palette.
- Keep a spare remote or two inside to reduce visual clutter on surfaces.
Result: a living room that looks edited and functions smoothly, with every remote tucked away but always close at hand.
