Choosing a bookshelf depends on your available space, the items you want to store and how you want the room to look. This guide compares tree bookshelves, open bookcases, cabinet designs and corner wall shelves.
Explore our bookshelves and bookcases NZ collection to compare the available options.
Which type of bookshelf should you choose?
| Style | When to consider it | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Tree bookshelf | Organising books vertically in a reading corner or study | Overall dimensions, shelf capacity and wall-securing instructions |
| Open bookcase | Keeping books, baskets and decorative items accessible | Usable shelf spacing, depth and weight limits |
| Bookcase with cabinet | Combining display shelves with enclosed storage | Cabinet space and clearance for opening doors |
| Corner wall shelf | Displaying smaller items while keeping floor space clear | Wall suitability, mounting hardware and load limits |
Tree bookshelves for vertical storage
Tree bookshelves arrange books on angled shelves around a central support. Consider this style for a bedroom, reading corner or home office, then compare the unit's actual footprint with your available space.
Our 12-Tier White Tree Bookshelf uses 15mm particle board with paper veneer. It requires assembly and includes assembly hardware and instructions.
Check the overall height, width and depth before ordering. Follow the installation instructions, including any requirements for securing the unit to a wall.
Open bookcases for books and display items
An open bookcase lets you keep books alongside baskets, photo frames and ornaments. Measure your tallest books and storage boxes, then compare them with the usable shelf openings.
Explore the 5-Tier Natural Oak Bookcase & Display Shelf. Check its product specifications for construction material, dimensions and finish before choosing.
Bookcases with enclosed storage
A bookcase with a cabinet combines visible display space with somewhere to keep smaller belongings out of sight. This can help when one unit needs to serve several storage purposes.
Compare the White 4-Shelf Bookcase with Storage Cabinet. Remember to allow room for the cabinet doors to open.
Corner wall shelves to keep floors clear
Corner wall shelves use the meeting point between two walls for display storage. Check the shelf depth and weight limit before deciding what to place on them.
View the 5-Tier Black Corner Floating Wall Shelf. Confirm that your wall is suitable and that the mounting method and fixings match the installation instructions.
What should you measure before buying a bookshelf?
- Width: Measure the available space between nearby furniture or walls.
- Depth: Allow room for the unit without obstructing walkways or doors.
- Height: Check clearance below windows, wall fittings or sloping ceilings.
- Shelf openings: Compare the usable space with your books, baskets and ornaments.
- Door clearance: For cabinet designs, leave enough room to open the doors.
Allow for skirting boards and access to power points. If a measurement is missing, contact us before ordering.
Check materials, weight limits and assembly
Read the construction specifications rather than relying on a colour or finish name. For example, an oak-coloured finish does not necessarily mean solid oak construction.
Books can be heavy. Check the stated weight limit for each shelf and the whole unit where provided. Do not assume a decorative wall shelf can hold the same load as a bookcase.
Check whether assembly is required, which hardware is included and whether additional fixings are needed for your wall type. Follow the manufacturer's installation and anchoring instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Which bookshelf is suitable for a small room?
Compare the available floor space with the product's width and depth. A tree bookshelf may suit a compact reading corner, while wall shelves can keep the floor clear. Choose using actual measurements rather than the number of tiers alone.
Can I put books on a corner wall shelf?
Check the shelf's depth, load limit and mounting requirements first. Suitability depends on the product, the wall and its fixings. Ask for clarification if the listing does not include this information.
Should I choose open shelves or a bookcase with a cabinet?
Open shelves provide visible, accessible storage. A cabinet design is useful when you also want to keep smaller belongings out of sight.
Does a bookshelf need to be secured to the wall?
Follow the specific product's anchoring instructions. Freestanding placement does not automatically mean wall securing is unnecessary. If the instructions are unclear, contact the seller before installation.
Browse bookshelves and bookcases in NZ
Explore our bookshelf collection to compare tree bookshelves, open bookcases, cabinet storage and corner wall shelves. Check each product's dimensions, materials and installation requirements to find the right fit for your home.