The bookcase is, of course, not limited to the bibliophile. Decoristas who love to endlessly arrange their treasured trinkets and tiny plants know that the bookcase is the perfect shell for doing so. Whether wall mounted, fitted into a corner or splashed across a wall eating up lots of real estate, one thing is certain: this hardworking piece of furniture is a favourite at home. We present our picks for 2021.
All products featured on HGTV Canada are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy through links in this article, we earn an affiliate commission.
Top Brass
This bookcase is not only stylish, it’s also a space saver. Resembling plumbing components, the mounted parts give off a glammy industrial-chic vibe we are rooting for. When styling, don’t cram the shelves with tchotchkes. It’s much more visually appealing to let each piece breathe. Modern Ladder Shelf, Amazon, $245.
See You Ladder
Since we’re all hunkered down at home, a desk-bookcase hybrid is a smart choice. Cute drawers – great for stashing snacks from the family, who’ll never look there – and a streaky wood grain makes this bookcase a looker. The Scandinavian silhouette is also a plus. DINA Acacia Wood Desk With Shelves, Structube, $569.
Related: How to Take Your Home Office to the Next Level, According to an HGTV Designer
Tall, Dark and Handsome
Romance that lonely corner with an asymmetrical bookcase. Made of solid wood, the hand-finished sculptural piece has six alternating shelves that are waiting for your books, frames, baskets and treasures. Howe Display Shelf, Sheesham, Urban Barn, $500.
Gold Never Gets Old
Brimming with architectural charm, this étagère has a soft brass finish, two offset faux marble shelves and an Art Deco style that adds instant elegance to a room. Tuck in healthy plants and decorative accessories and you’re good. Steel Geometric Bookcase, Wayfair, $440.
Great Heights
will have plenty of space to showcase their green thumb on this reclaimed shelving unit from EQ3. Interior designer Dana Mancini-Petkos of Saluti Designs masterfully varied the heights of the vases, artwork and books resulting in a dynamic vignette. Reclaimed Teak Shelving Unit, EQ3, $1,600.
Orange Crush
This iconic, lightweight unit by Kartell is playful and plain cool. Made of durable PMMA plastic, the unit has five shelves that can be moved and/or stacked in numerous storage configurations. The solid and transparent piece also makes a fabulous room divider – and it comes in multiple hues. Sound-Rack Cabinet, Lumens Light and Living, $795.
Cute in Coral
We like the wooden detail on the feet and top portion of this cutie pie of a cabinet. The trendy pink colour suits a living room and would look equally adorable anchored to a wall in a kid’s space. Windsor Display Bookcase, Home Depot, $350.
Related: Minimalist Kids’ Room Design Ideas Fit for a Mini Marie Kondo
The Trendster
If this bookcase looks familiar that’s because it’s trending harder than Lawyer Zoom Cat. The shallow depth is perfect for smaller spaces, so there’s no excuse not to set up shelves at home. Pro tip: When styling, lay down books with pretty spines. LAIVA bookcase, IKEA, $27.
Related: This Chill Condo Proves You’re Never Too Old for IKEA
Minimalistic Favourite
The barely there, but so there Stairway line of shelves from CB2 are stellar. These minimalistic pieces have sturdy powder-coated aluminum frames and timeless arctic white shelves. Look how great they look styled with small portraits. Stairway White Cabinet 96″, CB2, $1,099 per cabinet.
Related: From Kitchens to Living Rooms: Minimalist Design Style Ideas, Room by Room
It’s Circle Time
Perfect for tiny quarters, this gold-coloured metal Art Deco shelving system is ideal for curated collections. A few books, a small potted plant, a framed picture or two. What are you waiting for? Start styling! Deco Round Metal Shelf, West Elm, $180.
HGTV your inbox.
By clicking "SIGN UP” you agree to receive emails from HGTV and accept Corus' Terms of Use and Corus' Privacy Policy.