A bookshelf is a key element of your home’s style, organisation, and character. Fill it with books that reflect your passions or use it to put prized possessions proudly on display – regardless, the right bookshelf will complement your space in countless ways.
At Lighouse, we believe that a well-crafted bookshelf should offer both practical storage and act as a visual statement. Let’s unpack some inspiring shelf ideas, from timeless practical designs to pieces that add personality to your space, including our rustic yet modern Cross River Bookshelf.
Classic Wooden Bookshelves
A wooden bookshelfis the first choice for many homeowners who value durability and aesthetic appeal. Wood promises warmth and, when maintained properly, can last a lifetime. At Lighouse, we specialise in high-quality wooden bookshelves – each piece crafted meticulously by South African artisans who bring a personal touch to every corner.
When selecting a wooden bookshelf, pay attention to the material used. Spruce wood, for instance, is long-lasting and versatile.
Ideas to consider:
- Classic Vertical Shelves: A tall wooden shelf makes excellent use of vertical space, especially in rooms with high ceilings.
- Low, Horizontal Bookshelves: These are great for creating extra storage while maintaining a clear sightline across a room – a top choice for open-plan spaces or rooms with large windows.
- Floating Shelf Designs: These shelves make a statement without taking up any floor space in smaller rooms.
The Cross River Bookshelf
Amongst Lighouse’s most beloved offerings is the Cross River Bookshelf, a design that’s equal parts rustic and modern. Inspired by the rugged beauty of the Cross River region, this item of furniture becomes a centrepiece in any room. Crafted from sustainable spruce wood, the Cross River Bookshelfstands out by balancing form and function, exuding natural elegance.
Unique Features of the Cross River Bookshelf:
- Distinctive ‘Crossed Sides’ Design: The eye-catching crossed sides maintain an open and airy look, preventing it from overwhelming your space.
- No Back Panel: This design allows the furniture to feel more open, whether used as a freestanding piece or as a room divider.
- Spacious Shelves: While minimal in appearance, the Cross River Bookshelf offers plenty of space to house everything from books and photo frames to decorative pieces or plants.
- Customisable Sizes: We’re happy to customise the dimensions of the Cross River Bookshelf to meet your specific needs, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into your space. Alternatively, choose from our existing small, medium, and large designs.
Built-In Bookshelves
A built-in bookshelf is one of the most popular bookshelf ideas for those with ample wall space.
Advantages of Built-In Bookshelves:
- Customised to Fit: Unlike freestanding bookshelves, built-ins can be tailored to fit perfectly in any room, allowing you to maximise every inch.
- Seamless Design: Built-ins often act as part of the wall, creating a clean, integrated look that complements both traditional and modern interiors.
If you’re looking to invest in custom built-in shelving, the option to tailor it down to the tiniest of details is invaluable. Lighouse specialises in making shelving suited to any room – be it stretching from floor to ceiling in a home library or as a modest corner statement in a living space.
Practical Benefits of Custom-Made Bookshelves
One of the most underrated advantages of opting for a custom-made bookshelf is personalisation. Mass-produced shelving options often leave little room for flexibility in size, colour, or design. Custom bookshelves, however, are made especially for you, and your space, and in line with your budget.
Benefits of Customisable Shelving:
- Fit Any Space: Whether you’re working with a compact city apartment or a sprawling country house, a custom shelf can be tailored to those intimate or unique spaces that pre-made furniture just can’t accommodate.
- Solve Storage Problems: Struggling with specific storage needs? Maybe you want a media centre with room for your books but also space to house electronics? Custom designs help solve such challenges with precision.
- Reflect Your Style: A custom bookshelf adds a personal flair to your home décor as it reflects your personal style. Whether you want a natural matte finish or a darker, polished stain, the options are endless.
Floating Bookshelves
Mounted directly onto the wall, floating bookshelves seem to ‘float’ without visible supports and are ideal for minimalist spaces where every piece must pull its weight without overwhelming the room.
These shelves are excellent for:
- Small Spaces: A floating bookshelf is a slick solution when you need storage but want to keep the floor clear.
- Displaying Special Collections: You can rotate out featured items, transforming a static wall into a dynamic, ever-evolving piece of decor.
Shop for Your Perfect Bookshelf at Lighouse
Inspired to find or design your new bookshelf?
Browse Lighouse’s collection or submit a custom order to bring your dream bookshelf to life.