When shopping for a media storage unit, there are some essential features to consider:
Whether you have a small selection of favorites or a huge collection you want to display, buying a media storage unit with a large capacity ensures that you will always have room for every item and space for expansion as your collection grows. Most medium to large units can hold more than a hundred CDs, DVDs or gaming discs, however, if you have limited space in your home, try buying multiple small wall-mounted units to create a modular style storage system.
While a single CD weighs less than your cell phone, large multimedia collections can put a strain on the structural integrity of your storage unit over time. Look for units constructed from durable materials such as powder-coated metal, solid wood or strong plastic with quality craftsmanship that is built to last.
The finish defines how the media storage unit will fit into your home decor, so you need to select a unit with a high-quality finish that blends with your style.
Natural wood grains add warmth and texture to a living space, while high-gloss finishes give the room a modern, minimalist appearance.
You can also use the finish of the unit to create a dramatic statement which is ideal for entertainment units where the TV is the focal point of the room.
A striking distressed wood finish with exposed hardware for French country, shabby chic or farmhouse-style homes. Or opt for a matte wood finish for urban modern and transitional decor styles.
Ideally, you will want a unit that grows along with your multimedia collection. Adjustable shelves allow you to customize the storage space for improved organization that is more aesthetically pleasing. It also allows you to display other home decor accessories in addition to your multimedia items to elevate the style of your room.
Many styles of multimedia storage racks feature a rotating carousel that allows you to store CDs and DVDs on all sides of the unit and still be able to access them quickly.
Other units use a combination of open shelves to allow you to display your frequently used items, and cabinets to protect rare or less used items.
Positioning your multimedia storage close to your entertainment system keeps all your media in a single area and improves accessibility.
The size of your media storage unit depends on the proportions of other furniture and the size of your collection. Before buying a media storage unit, you should:
Go through your multimedia collection and take an inventory. Count the number of CDs, DVDs and gaming discs you currently have and make a vague estimate as to how much your collection may grow in the future.
Add 30% to the total number of multimedia items in your collection, and that should give you a rough idea on the capacity you need.
Match the unit to the proportions of the furniture and the overall size of the room. Take exact measurements of the location, allowing for 2-3 inches clearance on each side.
- Consider Additional Functions
If you plan on using your multimedia storage unit for more than just displaying your collection of DVDs and CDs, you need to choose a unit with additional surface and storage space. For multifunctional pieces, an entertainment unit is the best option as it offers a wide variety of storage areas including shelves, cabinets and horizontal surfaces for displaying accessories and digital players.
The material you choose for your media storage unit will depend on your current décor and the type of finish you desire. Different options include:
One of the most durable options for media storage is solid wood. Ideally suited to large entertainment units, cabinets and shelving solid wood often come with a natural wood grain finish to add depth and interest to your entertainment area. Hardwoods like oak or maple are denser than softwoods like pine and offer greater stability and longevity.
Choosing media storage constructed from hardwood may mean a bigger initial investment but can save you money long-term as you are less likely to need to replace or repair the unit.
Manufactured wood offers an affordable alternative to solid wood and allows for easy installationshould you need to asseble the unit yourself. It also comes in a variety of colors and finishes to suit your decor.
Some media storage unit comes with a metal frame that can be a great addition to a modern or industrial styled home. Check that the metal used is corrosion-resistant or powder-coated to preserve the structural integrity and prolong the life of the piece.
One of the benefits of using metal as a designer is that it is malleable and can be bent into a range of interesting shapes. A geometric or novelty style multimedia unit can be an eye-catching statement piece as well as functional storage.
Glass offers a unique option for organizing your collection. Tempered glass shelves can help a small space appear larger due to the transparency and open structure of the shelves. Glass can add texture to a room and complements coastal, modern and contemporary style rooms. Hoever, if your collection is huge, this kind of transparency may cause unattractive visual clutter.
Quick Tips
- Begin by taking stock of your multimedia collection and deciding whether you need space-saving storage or a combined multimedia and entertainment unit.
- When selecting a size, keep your storage unit to scale with the rest of the furniture in the room for a balanced design.
- Choose a material and finish that complements your décor and adds textural interest to the space.
- Look for features that enhance the accessibility of your media items while protecting them from damage.
