Narrow Bookcases

Chloe Hughes Interior Design Expert

Chloe is a highly-regarded expert in all things vintage and antique. She’s excited to share her vast knowledge with readers and clients wishing to infuse their homes with a mixture of old-time warmth and modern comfort. In addition to her design work, Chloe regularly volunteers at her local community center, teaching DIY projects to adults and kids.

Updated 21/12/2021

A tall narrow bookshelf is the best way to fill up a pokey little space, display books and decor, and make the most of corners. They are especially good when you have a smaller room or apartment and need to use the height of the room to save space. If you have a corner to fill (or just way too many books!), we’re sharing our top picks for the best narrow bookcases for small spaces.

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Narrow Bookcases

Buying Guide

Narrow bookcases make for a wonderful furnishing. Fill up the remainder of your living room or den space with a classic narrow bookcase and add personality to your home instantly. To make the right shopping decisions, consider the following.

What should I know before buying a narrow bookcase?

Size matters. Narrow bookcases can be tall or short. How will your room look with a short bookcase? Do you need something that nearly reaches the ceiling? Do you want your room to appear less cluttered? These are just a few questions you need to ask yourself before committing to a purchase.
Modern or vintage? It's important to know what kind of bookcase you want before buying it. This will save you time. Do a search of contemporary and antique structured bookcases. Do you want light colored wood or dark? Do you like wide handles or smaller ones? Picture your ideal bookcase or browse the web for inspiration and go for the desired look.
How many books or knick-knacks will go on the bookcase? Some people love putting little trinkets, pictures, and collectibles on their bookcase for decorative use. Think about this before deciding which product you want. Will you need more space? How many books do you own, or expect to shelve on the narrow bookcase?

What different designs of narrow bookcases are there?

Some bookcases feature wheels while other narrow bookcases feature adjustable height shelves. Adjustable shelving is a favorite among many buyers. You can customize the look of the bookshelf without buying a new product or getting rid of the one you already have.

Bookcases on wheels offer ease in maneuverability. Perhaps you need the bookcase in one or more rooms of the house. Move it from the office to the living room or den for variety.

It should be noted that some bookshelves are built from metal instead of wood. This design is perfect for those who want a contemporary look. The shelves will also be sturdier than their wood counterparts.

Where to place a bookcase?

If you're putting a bookshelf in a small nook or corner of the room, try getting a corner bookshelf, scaffold or ladder design. They will fit snugly in a small corner of the room so that you can preserve space for other necessities.

It's okay to be creative when deciding where to put your bookshelf. The kitchen is an area where most people don't even think to place this furnishing. Stock it with your favorite cookbooks and it won't seem out of place.

Bookcases add a certain appeal and delicacy to any room, as well as a hint of intelligence and prestige. They're also great for propping decorations. Add picture frames and small plants on top for a perfect marriage of functionality and personalized style.