Shelves + Bookcases

Modern wall shelves are a storage solution that is both efficient and decorative, able to make use of otherwise unused wall space for added storage and decor. Modern shelves come in a range of materials, including metal, wood, and a combination of the two. Design Within Reach offers several collections that can be configured in nearly endless ways to provide just the right amount of storage for your home in whatever room it’s needed. Among the modern bookshelves and wall shelves offered at DWR are mid-century modern shelves, both wall-mounted and freestanding. They may be called modern bookshelves, but they needn’t be limited to books. Any manner of collectibles, artwork, and curiosities may grace modern bookshelves – along with books themselves, of course. DWR offers shelves for any room in the home, including shelves for the modern living room. In the living room, many people may prefer wood shelving, which often may include a choice of oak or walnut. Some collections are modular and and can be configured like building blocks. Adjustable and modular shelving systems typically come in a wider range of materials and finishes than standard bookshelves and bookcases, as they're made to be customized to your ideal specifications. Many mid-century modern shelves have stood the test of time and have either been produced continuously since the 1950s or returned to production for their prevailing popularity. This category of modern shelves includes designer bookshelves attached to such names as Charles and Ray Eames or Poul Cadovius.

Shelving options

DWR offers a range of wall shelving including a collection of wooden wall shelves called the Royal System, which has shelves but also cabinets and a desk that can be assembled with the shelves to provide a pleasing and functional array. The String Collection is the steel shelving counterpart to Royal, and both can be considered adjustable wall shelving, in that their components can be moved around as needed. DWR carries a variety of freestanding shelving units in metal, wood, and a combination of the two. That variety allows for the selection of materials and functions that fit needs and taste. Many shelving units fall into the category of a modern shelving system, which usually allows nearly endless configurations to fit small or large spaces and needs. A book display case is often the request, and usually that means open shelves that allow the books to play a starring role in the room. One good option in that case is the Story Bookcase, which allows books to be stacked vertically for an attractive and handy storage solution. But shelving with doors or drawers is also desirable in situations where certain items are better kept out of sight. Those cases might call for a freestanding console cabinet or credenza, which can have shelves or even a drawer on the inside and be concealed behind a hinged or sliding door.

At Design Within Reach, we’re here to answer questions and more, with complementary design services to support you at every step of your interior design journey. Our staff of in-store design professionals can give advice and recommendations via chat, photos, and live video. They can also do 3-D renderings of your rooms so you can see how an arrangement might work. Look for the black chat icon at the lower right of webpages.