20 Magazine-Worthy Bookcase Designs

Because bookcases aren’t just about the books anymore.

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April 11, 2019

By: Morgan Faulkner

Related To:

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.

From: Urbanism Designs

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.

From: Garrison Foundry

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: Step-by-Step Shelving: DIY Ladder Shelf

From: Blackband Design

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.

From: Caitlin Murray

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.

From: Brooke Wagner

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.

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.

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.

GET THE HOW-TO: Industrial Rustic Bookshelf

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.

From: Sarah Stacey Interior Design

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.

From: Barbara Vail

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.

From: Elizabeth Bomberger

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.

From: Marie Flanigan Interiors

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.

From: WAKE + LOOM

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.

From: J&J Design Group

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.

From: Caitlin Murray

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!

From: Jamie Keskin

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.

See More Photos: Flex Space Pictures From HGTV Smart Home 2018

From: Tiffany Brooks

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.

GET THE HOW-TO: How to Refinish an Antique Bookcase

From: Camille Styles

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.

From: Little Crown Interiors

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.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Shop This Look

Photo By: Jessica Makes Studio

Photo By: Beatrice Pediconi, Designer: Sarah Gee Interiors

Photo By: Tessa Neustadt

Photo By: Caitlin Murray

Photo By: Ryan Garvin

Photo By: Grey Crawford

Photo By: Jennifer Boomer/Verbatim Photo Agency

Photo By: Lacey Land

Photo By: Nicole Baas Photography

Photo By: Regan Wood Photography

Photo By: Julie Soefer

Photo By: Wake and Loom

Photo By: John Woodcock Photography

Photo By: Caitlin Murray

Photo By: Joyelle West Photography

Photo By: Robert Peterson; Rustic White Photography

Photo By: Molly Winters

Photo By: Full Spectrum Photography

Photo By: Robert Peterson, Rustic White Photography

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