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20 Magazine-Worthy Bookcase Designs

Because bookcases aren’t just about the books anymore.

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Photo: Jessica Makes Studio. From: Urbanism Designs
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1 / 20

A Nod to Mid Mod

Think outside the traditional heavy bookcase by going for a fun-shaped unit instead. The unique shape and design channel mid-century lines, while fun accessories and art bring a modern edge.

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Photo: Beatrice Pediconi, Designer: Sarah Gee Interiors. From: Garrison Foundry
2 / 20

Focal Piece

If you’re looking for a large focal piece to fill up an otherwise boring wall, a one-of-a-kind bookcase is the way to go. In this space, a black bookcase makes an eye-catching home for the living room’s books, photos and artwork.

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Photo: Tessa Neustadt . From: Blackband Design
3 / 20

Repurposed + Resourceful

Put those old ladders to good use by repurposing them into a rustic-chic bookshelf. Simply refinish the ladder and secure wood planks on each rung for an easy-to-make, on-trend piece.

Make Your Own

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Photo: Caitlin Murray. From: Caitlin Murray
4 / 20

Arched Accent

Create an area that thrives in any space with a tailored-to-you bookcase. Small plants and fun accents add a lively energy within the shelves, while a navy-blue backsplash brings bold dimension throughout.

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Photo: Ryan Garvin. From: Brooke Wagner
5 / 20

Showcase & Show Off

Put those cookbooks to good use — as decor, of course. An otherwise unused wall in this kitchen is transformed into a display area for recipes and keepsakes, while a glass door protects the pages from wayward spills.

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Photo: Grey Crawford
6 / 20

Unexpected Spaces

Make use of that awkward space below the stairs by turning it into a one-of-a-kind bookcase. These Japanese-inspired “step tansu” stairs, hand crafted by David Albert, serve as a statement focal piece in this dreamy California abode.

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Photo: Jennifer Boomer/Verbatim Photo Agency. From: Fixer Upper
7 / 20

Ladder Bathroom Bookshelf

We’re here to say that even the bathroom deserves a little love and attention when it comes to decor pieces. As seen on HGTV's Fixer Upper, this wooden ladder bookshelf brings big design to a small space.

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8 / 20

Do it Yourself

If you’re on the hunt for a fun weekend project (with major style points) then look no further! Reclaimed wood and galvanized piping combine to create a warm, industrial-chic piece that all your pals will ooh and ahh over.

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Photo: Lacey Land. From: Sarah Stacey Interior Design
9 / 20

Luxe Bookcase Wall

A floor-to-ceiling bookcase wall draws the eye upwards to showcase this cozy home’s tall ceilings. Finished in a rich emerald hue, the unit serves not only as an exceptional room divider, but also a home for books and decorative accents.

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Photo: Nicole Baas Photography. From: Barbara Vail
10 / 20

Magnificent Metal

Create a colorful and inviting space by putting your books’ spines on full display. A zig-zag bookcase holds the books, while also bringing character, personality and texture to the room.

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Photo: Regan Wood Photography. From: Elizabeth Bomberger
11 / 20

Shine Bright

Whether you’re a bookworm or just a fun furniture enthusiast, a unique bookshelf is sure to be the center of attention in any space. Artfully styled and displayed, this wooden starburst bookshelf brings a huge wow-factor to the room.

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Photo: Julie Soefer. From: Marie Flanigan Interiors
12 / 20

Showstopping Beauty

Arched built-in bookcases complement the window in this home office, providing eye-catching architectural details. Painted in a neutral gray, the bookcases add interest and style to this transitional space.

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Photo: Wake and Loom. From: WAKE + LOOM
13 / 20

Beautiful Built-In

Designed by Wake + Loom, a stark-white bookcase boasts a fresh design of vases, plants and colorful reads. Below, a large cabinet conceals extra belongings.

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Photo: John Woodcock Photography. From: J&J Design Group
14 / 20

An Eye-Catching Library

A large, sophisticated-blue bookcase lines the wall of this home’s library. The vast size and quantity of shelves make this stunning piece a bibliophile’s dream.

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Photo: Caitlin Murray. From: Caitlin Murray
15 / 20

Masculine Vibes

A bookcase is the perfect way to add personality and style to any space. Here, black and gold units create a rich, warm atmosphere in this contemporary and trendy home office.

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Photo: Joyelle West Photography. From: Jamie Keskin
16 / 20

Kids' Room Essentials

A stylish wooden bookshelf houses this nursery’s decor as well as blankets and books. A shelf that’s practical and pretty? Sign us up!

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Photo: Robert Peterson; Rustic White Photography. From: Tiffany Brooks
17 / 20

A Secret Surprise

Don’t let this beautifully-styled bookcase fool you — it actually doubles as an entryway to a secret gaming room. When the shelving unit is opened, a colorful and modern virtual reality room is revealed.

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Photo: Molly Winters. From: Camille Styles
18 / 20

Antique Chic

Reassemble your piece into a beautiful bookshelf. Fill the piece with all your favorite belongings, then enjoy your hard work for years to come.

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Photo: Full Spectrum Photography. From: Little Crown Interiors
19 / 20

Glam Factor

Turn up the glam factor in your favorite space with a modern gold bookshelf. This unit fits perfectly between two doors in an elegant and girly nursery.

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Photo: Robert Peterson, Rustic White Photography. From: Brian Patrick Flynn
20 / 20

Double Duty

A minimalist-style bookcase serves multiple duties in this calming purple bedroom. The top half stores and displays trendy objects, while the lower half acts as a handy desk for the space’s occupant.