Are you looking for storage options that enhance your home's design aesthetic? Bookcases and shelving add valuable storage space while making a statement. Whether housing your library or displaying family photos, there is a bookcase or shelf that meets your needs and decor preference. Check out our guide below to get started.
Before you embark on the journey to find the perfect bookcase or shelf, consider the following factors.
1.
Room Dimensions
Are you organizing a large space or trying to maximize square footage in close quarters? There are shelving solutions to meet every use case. Make sure you take measurements of your space (including the height of your ceilings)
2.
Permanence
Are you planning on moving in the future? Are you the type of person who likes to constantly reshuffle a living space? Bookcases that are mounted to the wall or very heavy will be more challenging for frequent rearranging.
3.
Function
Are you looking for a purely utilitarian bookshelf or a sculptural piece of decor? While all bookcases and shelves help keep items organized, some are designed to catch the eye.
4.
Material & Style
Bookcases and shelves are constructed from a range of materials like wood, metal, glass, and plastic. The style – such as mid-century modern, contemporary, or rustic to name a few – will typically determine the materials available.
Pro Tip
Shelves should prioritize function and style. Keep your shelving from looking too busy or cluttered by breaking up the space with small accent pieces.
Types of Bookcases & Shelves
From bedrooms to living rooms and every room in between, there are a variety of bookcases and shelf types to accentuate your space. Let's explore some popular options here.
Freestanding
Freestanding shelves can be placed against the wall or used as a room divider. They're available in varying shelf heights, materials, finishes, shapes, and styles.
Ladder/Leaning Shelves
Leaning shelves are a space-saving option that typically has the appearance of a ladder and are more narrow at the top of the shelf than the base.
Etagere
Etagere shelves are backless vertical shelving. They offer a modern aesthetic that allows the wall color to shine through the back of the piece.
Geometric
Geometric shelves are uniquely designed to be focal points in a room. They come in a variety of silhouettes that have a gravity-defying appearance.
Barrister
Barrister shelves are an old-school style that typically incorporates vertical shelves with glass panels to protect them from dust. They're ideal for storing kitchenware.
Floating
Floating shelves are anchored to a wall instead of standing on legs. They're typically used to save space and display decor for a modern look and feel.
Modular
Modular shelves are available in sets of two, three, or more. They're intended to be adjoining or interlocked for a variety of configurations.
Cube
A cube shelf is a common, versatile option. They're stackable with segmented cubby compartments that can store freestanding items or individual bins and baskets.
Built-in
Built-in shelves are often customized for the room in which it's being installed. They're meant to be a long-term storage solution, since they can't be easily moved.
Make the Most of Your Bookcase or Shelf
Consider these additional features and functions for your shelves:
1.
Drawers
Keep smaller items container and out of sight with shelving that incorporates drawers
2.
Wall-mounts
Enjoy the look and style of traditional shelving without taking up floor space
3.
Stackable Solutions
Give yourself the option to customize height and build as you go with shelving that can be stacked.
4.
Multi-purpose Uses
Get creative and let shelving double as a side or coffee table.
5.
Pre-assembled Shelves
While some shelving systems may require you to put the toolbox to use, there are pre-assembled options if you want a turnkey storage option.
Pro Tip
Bookcases are the perfect blend of style and function. Add elements of decor to your shelving to elevate your style.