Looking for a bookcase? It's not just about books anymore. A good bookcase can keep everything from your favorite novels to your cherished mementos safe and sound, all while adding a splash of style to your room.
With so many types, materials, and features out there, finding the right one can change the look and feel of your space. But don't worry; we'll show you how to pick a bookcase that’s just right for you, balancing what you need it to hold with the style you love.
Making Assessments
Before deciding on a bookcase, it’s essential to assess your space to find the best fit. It’s more than measuring your space (although that is the first and most important step!)
- Measure Your Area: Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of the space where you plan to place the bookcase. (Don’t forget to measure doorways and hallways to make sure you have space to move the bookcase!)
- Consider the Scale: A bookcase should complement the room's size and existing furniture. A large piece can overpower a small room, while a too-small bookcase might look underwhelming in a spacious area.
- Evaluate the Layout: Think about how the bookcase will affect the room's overall layout, including traffic flow and accessibility. It should enhance the space, not obstruct it.
- Plan the Placement: Reflect on where the bookcase will go. Its location can influence the style of the room especially if it's meant to be a focal point or a functional piece against a wall.
What Do You Need?
The next step goes beyond aesthetics; it's about functionality and how it will serve your needs. So, take a moment to consider what you'll be storing on those shelves before deciding!
- Consider Storage Needs: Are you displaying a collection of hardcover classics, housing an assortment of small plants and decor, or organizing multimedia items like DVDs and video games? The content you plan to store will directly influence the type of bookcase you need, from the spacing and depth of shelves to the overall design.
- Adjustable Shelving: Bookcases with adjustable shelves offer versatility and accommodate items of varying sizes, from tall vases to stacked board games.
- Weight Capacity: If you plan to load up your bookcase with heavy books or collectibles, look for options designed to support more weight without sagging.
- Additional Features: Consider whether you could benefit from bookcases that include doors to protect against dust, drawers for hidden storage, or built-in lighting to showcase your items.
Which Bookcase is Which?
Knowing your space and your needs are vital components to finding the best bookcase, but you also need to consider the types of bookshelves available. And there’s more than you might think!
- Standard Freestanding Bookcases are versatile in design, which means they fit in almost any room, and their straightforward style easily matches modern and traditional home décor styles!
- Étagère Bookcases feature an open, airy design and slender metal frames, adding elegance and light to any space. Since these don’t feature a back, they’re perfect for displaying décor, plants, or collectibles!
- Geometric Bookcases include unique shapes and compartment designs that bring a modern and artistic flair. These work best in contemporary spaces, adding interest and a focal point to minimalist or avant-garde rooms!
- Ladder Bookcases lean against the wall and feature a slim profile and graduated shelf sizes. They're perfect for small spaces or adding a minimalist touch to any room, blending well with Scandinavian or coastal styles!
- Barrister Bookcases are well-known for their traditional look, protective glass doors, and vintage vibes, making them ideal for traditional, English cottage, or classic décor themes!
- Library Bookcases create a library-like effect in a room while offering substantial storage space, adjustable shelves, and attached ladders. These look best in grand, traditional homes or spaces with classic, scholarly aesthetic!
Materials Matter!
The material of your bookcase does more than hold up your books; it sets the tone for your room's aesthetic and impacts the piece's longevity!
- Wood ranges from solid hardwoods like oak and maple to softer woods like pine. Hardwoods are more durable and resistant to wear, while softer woods are less durable (but usually more affordable).
- Metal provides a modern look and high durability, making them great for heavy loads. They're often used in industrial or minimalist decor styles.
- Glass is often used for shelves to add a sleek, contemporary edge to any room and is perfect for displaying items without obstructing light or views. However, it can be more fragile than wood or metal.
- Engineered Woods like MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) or particle board allow for a wide range of finishes and styles to look like natural wood at a lower cost, but they’re not as durable.
- Sustainable Materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled metals offer an eco-friendly option that brings a unique story and aesthetic to your space.
Decision Time!
Now that you've considered all the possibilities, it's time to make your choice! So make sure to:
- Inspect the Construction: When possible, see the bookcase in person. Look at how it's put together. Joints should be tight and secure, shelves should not sag under weight, and doors or drawers (if any) should open and close smoothly.
- Check the Material Quality: For wood bookcases, look for solid construction and avoid pieces where you can easily spot flaws or inconsistencies. For metal, check for a sturdy frame without any bending or wobbling. For glass, ensure it's thick and tempered for safety.
- Sustainability Certifications: If choosing sustainable materials is important to you, look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood products, indicating that materials have been sourced responsibly.
Ready to make your choice? Check out our bookcase and shelving collection at Stucky's Furniture and Appliance! We carry various top brands with quality construction so that you can shop with confidence! And if you have questions, call or stop by — our team is happy to help with what you need!