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Types of Bookcases – Their Features & Uses

bookcase solid wood

Bookcases and Their Long Shelf Life

When one thinks of bookcases throughout history, Hollywood-conjured images seem to immediately flood our thoughts; where floor-to-ceiling walls of bookshelves with their infamous rolling ladder are ready to whisk you away to your next work of literature. While these dreamy libraries have certainly dominated many households throughout the world, modern-day bookshelves now come in a variety of architecturally minded designs in a range of styles, sizes, and even functions. Whether borrowing from tradition or taking on a whole new profile, the role of a bookcase not only serves as a station for your favorite works of literature, but they have also become a platform to display curated vignettes, photo frames, succulents, and other accent pieces. They are excellent expressions that add warmth and personality to your home, while at the same time, communicating a lot about what you read, collect, and love.

Types of Bookcases

It’s no secret that bookcases make for great storage, and a well-styled bookshelf is an excellent expression that adds warmth and personality to your room. But how do you choose a bookcase that best suits your space?

1. Cube Bookcase

Are you looking for a bookshelf that is more than just practical storage? Does your vision include an eye-catching piece that brings a decorative touch all its own? A cube bookshelf is more than just a designated place to tuck away your titles or show off your decorative objects:

Vallejo Solid Wood Stair Step Bookcase

The unassuming configuration of a cube bookcase also allows them to integrate effortlessly into different roles beyond merely that of a holder for books:

The angular, proportional compartments serve as excellent playgrounds for any number of unique collections. They can effortlessly:

2. Geometric Bookcase

Looking for something with an artistic vision that can easily cater to an industrial or modern taste? A geometric bookcase is unparalleled among its peers:

A geometric bookcase can accommodate a variety of uses:

3. Ladder Bookcase

Does your space need a freestanding bookshelf that can fit anywhere, even in small spaces? Is versatility at the top of your list when it comes to shelf space? The ladder, or leaning bookcase, is a great organizational investment that can be used anywhere in the house:

Ignacio 5 Open Shelf Solid Wood Leaning Ladder Bookcase

With style to spare, the leaning bookcase is not your average blocked-off of shelves. This open and airy bookcase:

4. Stair Step Bookcase with Drawers

Love the aesthetic of a bookcase, but prefer some concealed storage to accompany this look? Then a bookcase with drawers, a bookcase with file drawers, or a bookcase with doors is the solution you need to:

Proctorville Rustic Wood Stair Step Cube Bookcase With Doors & Drawers

Wherever it is needed most, the combination of open and closed storage offers the best of both worlds, plus the look can stretch across any decor scheme or capacity:

5. Corner Bookcase

Is space at a premium? For a contemporary look with architectural integrity, a standing corner bookcase can add an easy upscale look to your room. A corner shelf acts as an attractive decorative statement that can also:

Cameroon Contemporary 5-Shelf Solid Wood Corner Ladder Bookcase

6. Round Bookcase

Kids at home? We have got you covered! Go for a round bookcase— with no sharp corners, you don’t have to worry about your kid accidentally bumping into its edges. Moreover, a minimalist round bookshelf when made of solid wood and metal will also make a statement look in your living room. The combination of wood and metal will provide stability and will match the industrial style. Round bookcases can also add a visual softness to the interiors. Here are some of the pros of getting a round bookcase:

5 Shelf Industrial Open Round Bookcase

Styles of Bookshelves

A bookcase demands attention and so it’s important that you select the right style and also make your life sorted, be it your home or office.

1. Mid-century Modern Bookcase style

Add a touch of elegant simplicity and timelessness to your home with a mid-century modern bookcase. It will give your home a fuss-free, clean-lined look while giving you plenty of room to arrange your décor items and books. The highlights of a mid-century modern bookcase are:

Mid-Century Modern Bookcase with Slatted Sliding Doors

2. Industrial Bookcase style

Love the look of exposed ductwork and raw materials? Then the industrial style is your go-to style! Industrial, while being fluid enough to fit in with certain rustic and traditional decor schemes, is all about the durable, commercial aesthetic. Elements of this style can include:

Industrial Bookcase

An industrial bookcase can come in more compact sizes for studio floor plans, to large bookcases ready for stowing your necessities in an open shelf bookcase design of  2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 shelves. This style shelf is great for many specifications or desired aesthetics:

3. Vintage Bookcase style

If you love the old-world charm and love owning and showcasing vintage decor and accessories, then a vintage-style bookcase would be just perfect for you. Exhibiting quality craftsmanship, a vintage bookcase is versatile and vibrant. Carvings and painted patina make this furniture piece a prized collection to display your paperbacks not to mention the use of environmentally friendly recycled wood! The use of solid wood boasts the grain pattern along with natural knots and imperfections and invokes gracefulness to give the bookcase an antique look.

The flowing lines and a relaxed color palette make it all the more beautiful and present you with more reasons to opt for one:

4. Rustic Bookcase style

As Marilyn Monroe said, imperfection is beauty, a bookcase with a rugged demeanor, chipped carvings, and unfinished lines will grace your living space with its rustic style. Alternatively, you can also flaunt a bookcase in farmhouse style or cottage style and show your love for simplicity, rugged look, and organic wood patterns. Rough-hewn solid wood or reclaimed wood could be used and paired with metals like iron. Rustic bookcases are a perfect way to infuse a feeling of warmth and coziness into your home. Minimum ornamentation and muted tones also heighten the look and can make the bookcase a conversation piece in the room it is placed. 

In conclusion, the bookcase you choose and the features they highlight speak volumes about your personal tastes. They infuse a home with warmth, and character, and also maintain order by providing designated storage and display options. With such decorative power at your fingertips, which bookcase will YOU choose?

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