Shelving units on your wish list? Our inboxes are full of them, and we’ve chosen our favourites so you can create a gorgeous display. There are complete shelving systems, and also little units in case you only have a few books, magazines and photos to show off.
Shelving units? No problem. These useful designs can house sentimental photos, trinkets and vases, along with books, magazines, vinyl records, DVDs and CDs (that’s if you’re still hanging on to either of the last two!). If you’ve run out of kitchen storage space, you can also use them to display beautiful crockery and glassware. So here are some of the best shelving units out there.
This fantastically luxe design
Firstly, one of our absolute favourites: a shelving unit in whitewashed mango wood with a brass-plated frame. Not only does it look fabulous, but there are five whole shelves full of space to display all your most prized possessions.
This simple and stylish bookcase
Okay, they say this is a bookcase, but as you can see from the photo, you don’t just have to use it to hold books. You can display candles, perfume bottles and – indeed – decorative pineapples. Or why not use it to hold plants?
This handy room divider
Thirdly, this modular shelving system can be configured as a single or an expansive room divider. Featuring timber shelves on black powder-coated metal stands, these shelving units are a chic way to display your belongings.
This adorable little caddy
This sweet little piece of furniture can be used as a bookcase, side table, stool or step. Handmade in England from solid ash, its modern clean lines and tapered sides highlight the timber’s distinctive wood grain.
This small yet classic bookcase
This bijoux little bookcase is made from pine and composite wood, then painted pure white. Less than a metre tall and wide, it’s 35cm deep so will fit most books. Or you could accessorise it with ornaments and accessories instead.
This industrial-style media unit
If you’re after something a bit different then this industrial-style oak-effect media unit might be for you. It’s one of a full range of storage units, with a tall display cabinet and shoe cabinet included, so you could collect the set.
This cutest of little shelving units
This gorgeous little sideboard on matt black legs is so dreamy. It holds more than you’d think, but as the print above says, ‘less is more’! It features five storage shelves, a grey frame and a solid wood bamboo effect door.
These sleek and chic bespoke shelving units
If you’re willing to spend a little more, you could invest in these exquisite bespoke shelving units. Pictured in anthracite but also available in many other colours and finishes, they’re made to perfectly fit your space.
These beautifully crafted shelving units
Neville Johnson also produce stunning shelving. Here they’ve taken an awkwardly-shaped loft room and made use of the eaves, creating lots of useful storage space. The oak contrasts with the on-trend matt black to great effect.
This modern bespoke shelving installation
Wren are another company who make bespoke shelving, and this modern design stands out with its clean lines and cuboid form. You can put your most beautiful possessions on display then tidy the rest away in the cupboards.
This unique and innovative shelving system
The String shelving system is a Swedish design classic. The versatile modular system can consist of shelves, side panels, cabinetry, a desk and more: put simply, if you want it included in your design, String can probably provide it.
This very elegant shelving look
Then we have this gorgeous study: as part of their Hania collection, Roundhouse Design created shelving using the styles Urbo and Metro. Painted in a classy and understated Farrow & Ball paint shade, it’s the epitome of elegance.
… and lastly, this grown-up bespoke shelving installation
Sharps have crafted this unit to fit perfectly into this niche in the wall, and painted it in a similarly sophisticated shade. As it’s bespoke, you can decide on your ideal design, and choose your perfect hardware for the cupboards too.
Want more? Check out our feature on how to style open shelving.