The Bookcase & Bookshelf Buying Guide for the Home

Home libraries and bookcases go together like peanut butter and jelly: they’re a (seemingly) perfect pair. However, choosing the right bookcase can be difficult. There are plenty of factors to consider – such as size, design, material, color, and more that might make your head spin. For a classy bookshelf you can consider La Maison shelving. However, We’ve compiled this beginner’s guide to help simplify things 

BASIC BOOKCASE BUYING GUIDE FOR THE HOME

#1: Determine the Main Purpose

Before shopping for a new bookcase, it’s important to determine what its main purpose will be practical or decorative? If you plan to use the bookcase as an additional storage space for books and office supplies, opt for a traditional model with enclosed shelves. However, if you’re looking to add a stylish touch to your home decor, don’t worry about the unit’s storage capabilities and go for one that’s more ornamental (e.g., open bookshelves).

#2: Determine the Size & Style

After figuring out what you’ll be using the bookcase for, it’s time to decide on its size and style. When choosing the width of your bookcase, make sure to leave enough room between (and in front of) it and any adjacent walls or furniture. If you’re opting for an open bookshelf design instead, look at how big your collection of reading materials is – or will be – before purchasing.

#3: Determine the Material

The material matters for two reasons: it influences the bookcase’s weight and durability and affects how much care you’ll need to put into cleaning. A wooden bookcase is likely to be more durable than a metal one – but more on that later. When it comes to cleaning, if you plan on handling upkeep on your own (which is true of most homeowners), opt for a smooth surface, such as glass or plastic. If not, choose a fabric cover or wood veneer instead.

#4: Determine the Color

How many colors do you want? Do you prefer lighter shades – like white and cream – or darker ones (like black)? You can also accessorize the bookcase with colorful objects and pictures.

#5: Determine Where to Place It in Your Home

To get a bookshelf, always focus on this point. What kind of space is in your room? Does it have a fireplace or corner? Maybe you would like it near a window or next to a wall.  By planning your bookcase’s location, you know where to place them when they’re in your home already. There’s nothing worse than getting something home only to realize that it doesn’t fit right in the spot you had wanted for it!

#6: Determine The Design

It all depends on what design will look best in that area of your house and how much space is available (although these days, most homes – and especially apartments – are designed for maximum storage). If you plan to add many books or other taller items to your collection, choose a tall bookcase that will give them plenty of room to stand.

#7: Determine the Price Range

Most furniture stores have a big price range for their bookcases depending on what they are made out of and if they have any special features included. Some stores may only carry cheap ones, while others offer high-end designs. Figure out a reasonable budget you can spend first, then make a list of your favorites from each store so you can compare prices between them.  Most places have online catalogs that show their full selection as well, which is very helpful! It’s also important to note that some retailers offer coupons or discounts from time to time.

#8: Determine Good Quality

Read more as this paragraph is really very important. When buying a new bookcase or bookshelf, it’s important to determine if the quality is good. If you’re shopping online, look for detailed photos of the bookcase and read customer reviews. It should be able to hold as much weight as feasibly possible without compromising its durability or stability. In addition, check that all shelves are sturdy and there aren’t any cracks, chips, or dents in the material itself – these types of damages can damage your precious belongings!

Conclusion:

Buying a bookcase isn’t difficult at all, but it does require some planning (and research) beforehand. Once you’ve got all your questions answered and your budget, go out there and buy one!