Selecting a shelving option is an integral part of creating a functional and tidy home. It provides a way to keep your books, magazines, toys, and other items organized and within easy reach. You can choose from several different types of shelving. However, the two of the most common type of shelving solutions are open shelving and bookshelves.
What is the main difference between open shelving and bookshelves? Open shelves are perfect for storing large items, from books to picture frames. You can use bookshelves as multi-purpose storage, but they might not store taller items due to the limited height space. Here is some more information on open shelving and bookshelves, and how to pick the right shelves for your space.
What are Open Shelves and Floating Shelves?
Open shelving is made up of a series of metal bars or ladders that are mounted on the wall. These shelves are not attached to one another. Their spacing is based on the size of the items you intend to store on the shelves. The design of these floating shelves allows air to flow between the items, which many people find preferable to traditional closed bookshelves.
When Should Bookshelves be Used as a Shelving Option?
The truth is, bookshelves are rarely used for their intended purpose. We see fewer actual books on bookshelves as many people shift towards online reading. Common uses for bookshelves are to display photos, hold collectibles, or house vinyl records. That being said, there are numerous other creative ways to use bookshelves that can add style to a room and separate you from your peers. For example, some people even use a bookshelf as a headboard for their bed. Bookshelves come in many unique shapes, like this multiple tier bookshelf with a zigzag design. In short, the possibilities with a bookshelf are endless if someone really wants to get creative.
Which Shelving Option is More Sturdy?
All shelves are typically made from sturdy materials, allowing them to safely store everything from CDs and DVDs to framed photos, collectibles, and even stuffed animals. Whatever you choose to keep on your bookshelf or open shelf, you’ll want to ensure that the shelves can adequately support the weight of your items. While both shelves and open shelves are designed to hold a lot of weight, bookshelves might be the preferred option for storing heavier items other than books since these types of shelves are supported by the ground.
For a sturdier shelving option that combines the best features of an open shelf and a bookshelf, this ladder bookshelf is the perfect solution. Since it is grounded, it is more sturdy than an open shelf yet does not have the limited height storage like a regular bookshelf. Plus, the ladder design also makes it more unique-looking than other shelves.
Which Type of Shelving has More Storage Space?
As mentioned, it is not uncommon for shelves to be put to various uses other than merely storing books. This is especially true in homes with limited space. Open shelving is a much more space-efficient way to store books since you can control the space between each stacked shelf. On the other hand, bookshelves might have deeper storage space, yet will have more height limitations for the items stored.
There’s just something about the open shelving that gives you a feeling of openness. But, which shelving solution is better? The answer to that question: it depends on what you’re looking to store. Regardless, you’ll find solutions in both shelving categories to meet your storage and display needs.