Whether you’re a bookworm or not, the right bookshelf is just as important as the books it holds. Surprisingly, there are many bookshelves to choose from to store and display your collection.
To help you choose the right shelf, we have compiled a guide to the bookshelves available from your nearest furniture store, along with their pros and cons.
Freestanding bookshelves
Freestanding bookshelves are the most common type, a great choice if you want flexibility in terms of placement and style.
One good thing about freestanding shelves is you can move them around easily, so if you like to rearrange your space from time to time, they’re the best fit for you. They also come in many styles and sizes, so there’s something for everyone, and often more affordable than built-in bookshelves.
However, freestanding bookshelves take up floor space, which may not be ideal for smaller rooms. Plus, they can be less sturdy than built-in bookshelves and may not fit the exact dimensions of your space, leading to awkward gaps or wasted space.
Corner bookshelves
Corner bookshelves are perfect for smaller rooms, awkward spaces, or otherwise wasted spaces.
Corner bookshelves fit snugly into a corner, making them a great space-saving option for living room furniture. With these shelves displaying your best books and decorative items, you can add character to any room.
On the downside, corner bookshelves are as sturdy as built-in bookshelves and may not be as easy to access as other bookshelves. Finding certain styles or sizes that fit your corner nicely can also be difficult.
Built-in bookshelves
Are you looking for a custom, high-end look and are willing to invest in the project? Entry built-in bookshelves become a permanent part of your home, typically installed by a professional carpenter.
One of the advantages of these shelves is that they are custom designed to fit your space and needs. They can add value to your home and provide significant storage space.
Of course, these benefits come with a price. Built-in bookshelves are typically more expensive, as they require design and installation processes. If you have a change of heart, built-in shelving can’t be moved or rearranged.
Ladder bookshelves
Want to add something out-of-the-ordinary to your home vibe? Try ladder bookshelves, a unique type of bookshelf that looks like a ladder leaning against the wall. They’re great for smaller spaces or for adding a touch of rustic charm to a room.
Ladder bookshelves are space-saving. You can find them in several materials, including wood, metal, and even glass, to suit your space!
But with its size, a ladder bookshelf may not hold as many books as a traditional freestanding or built-in bookshelf. Also, it can be hard to access the higher shelves, and some models can be flimsy or unstable.
Cube bookshelves
Another stylish way to decorate your living room is by using cube bookshelves. Also known as modular bookshelves, separate cube-shaped compartments can be stacked and arranged in countless configurations, which is great for organising items while adding a decorative element.
They’re customisable and can be arranged in different configurations, so you can get your creative juices going. However, the cubes can be easily toppled over and may not hold as many books as other options.
Wall-mounted bookshelves
Save floor space and create a clean, minimalist look with wall-mounted bookshelves. These bookshelves attach directly to the wall, often using brackets or other hardware.
Aside from being space-efficient, they are also customisable; you can install them at any height. Use wall-mounted bookshelves to create a statement piece in the room.
Unfortunately, you cannot store too many books on wall-mounted shelves compared to other bookshelves. Plus, you may need an expert, such as a carpenter, for proper installation to ensure the shelves are secure.
We hope this guide helps you choose the right bookshelf for your space and needs. Happy organising!
