Perplexed by how to pick the right bookcase for your space? Whether you’re looking to purchase a bookcase to hold books, display decor, or simply add visual height to a room, selecting a bookcase is no easy task. Making it difficult is the fact that bookcases come in a wide variety of shapes and styles, including hutches, closed-door styles, and minimalist ladder styles. To help, we’re spotlighting some of the most common bookcase types and giving you tips and tricks on where they work best!
Small bookcase
Small standing bookcases are generally box-shaped furniture pieces with one open side that’s lined with interior shelving. Most small bookcases only have three shelves, although they can have more or less. Their compact size makes these bookcases perfect for children’s rooms as well as small living rooms, entries, or hallways.
Matches with: Small bookcases can be procured in almost any style, including Victorian, rustic, and Mid-Century Modern.
Bookcase with Doors
Bookcases with glass doors are a popular choice for offices and formal living rooms. These bookcases look similar to an armoire, although they are usually smaller in size and have glass doors as opposed to wood doors. Since your books are encased behind glass, they might not be the best choice for those who want to prominently display their library. However, these bookcases are perfect for anyone seeking a classical curio cabinet effect.
Matches with: It’s easy to find these bookcases in traditional styles like Neoclassical and Empire, as well as turn-of-the-century styles like Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts.
Ladder Bookcase
Ladder bookcases are simple bookcases composed of wood or metal slats held between two metal or wood support posts. These minimalist bookcases generally have no back, meaning they need to be installed against a wall in order to be functional. What these bookcases lack in substance they make up for in their versatility. These pieces can be installed next to a bed, in a tiny entryway, dining room, or office. While it might be tempting to pack them with books, leaving some open space can prevent them from looking too visually heavy.
Matches with: These minimalist pieces go best with modern and industrial interiors.
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Lead image design by SUBU Design Architecture / Photo by Photography by Karen Millet
