10 Home Office Bookcase Ideas That Complete the Room

As far as home office storage goes, there's the general built-in kind that's incorporated within a desk, file cabinets, and the occasional floating shelf. But when your storage needs call for a more comprehensive solution, a bookcase will get the job done. Aside from serving as a focal point in a room, it can provide a wealth of storage opportunities for books, decorative accents, art, and even media. Finding a shelving unit that can complement your existing decor scheme might just be the trickiest part, but don't fret, we have you covered. Read on for 10 cool bookcase ideas that will instantly transform your home office.

Create the illusion of a built-in shelving unit by stacking a pair of small, narrow bookcases on top of a desk so that they're sitting flush against the wall — just be sure to anchor them so they won't topple over. Stay consistent when it comes to the finish of your office furniture for a seamless and cohesive design. If you really want to amp up the wow-factor, consider a monochrome look that extends from the desk to the shelves to the walls. Allow this chic scene, designed by Zoe Feldman, to serve as inspiration.

​Get the look:​ Ebern Designs Saidnawey Standard Bookcase, $54.99

IKEA never fails to please with its robust collection of home office storage solutions but we're partial to the sleek, glass door cabinet spotted in this whimsical workspace. The versatile piece, featuring a metal frame and sliding doors, is ideal for both modern or contemporary schemes and will allow you to easily show off your books and decor in style.

​Get the look:​ IKEA Idåsen Cabinet, $399

For the minimalist home office with a utilitarian sensibility, consider an industrial-style shelving unit that comes with an unexpected edge. Cue the steel powder-coated bookcase with adjustable shelves in this colorful scene from HAY, which balances out the exposed hinges and sliders with a dreamy, sage green finish. Couple this bookcase with baskets or storage bins to keep clutter out of sight.

​Get the look:​ HAY Shelving Unit, $275

If your home office lives within the confines of another room, consider an all-encompassing storage unit that can accommodate both a desk as well as shelving. Take a design cue from Nicole of vestige HOME and go for a vintage hutch, which combines form and function with effortless cool.

​Get the look:​ Pottery Barn Livingston Secretary Desk with Hutch, $3,398

CB2's ladder bookcase is an interior design staple and its versatility is one of the main reasons it's so iconic. In this light-filled home office, it serves as a landing spot for various collectibles and decor but we're all for turning it into a moment by lining three of them side-by-side to create a statement-worthy book display.

​Get the look:​ CB2 Stairway White Wall Mounted Bookcase, $399

If you have a small space and you're all about simplicity with a minimalist touch, Design Within Reach's iconic Story bookcase is the way to go. The space-saving storage solution not only inspires with its Scandi-chic design but it's versatile enough to blend in with just about any decorative scheme — this contemporary office space is picture-perfect proof.

​Get the look:​ Design Within Reach Story Bookcase, $295

If your line of work requires a constant back and forth between your desk and storage, an open etagere bookcase (if you're feeling slightly fancy) is the way to go. Just take a peek inside Jojotastic's dreamy studio, where a pair of IKEA shelves offer ample room for everything from bins and dishware to plants and files.

​Get the look:​ IKEA Fjälkinge Shelf Unit, $149

When working with a contemporary high-contrast scheme, avoid bringing in natural elements, such as solid wood, which will invariably offset the intensity of the existing palette. Instead, go for an industrial or steel frame open bookcase that can complement the moody surroundings, just as designer Emily Henderson did in this black and white home office makeover.

​Get the look:​ Project62 Paulo 4 Shelf Bookcase, $90

Copenhagen-based brand Muuto is pretty much synonymous with sleek storage solutions and the modular bookcase in this modern workspace is a prime example of that. Follow the lead of this setup and invest in a unit that features a mix of open shelves or cubbies as well as closed drawers for a dynamic approach that will keep clutter hidden and showcase your decor accents.

​Get the look:​ Muuto Stacked Storage System, $2,250

An all-in-one bookcase and workspace is never a bad idea, regardless of the square footage you're working with. This Pinterest-worthy setup spotted on West Elm's blog Front + Main is a great solution for those with a never-ending collection of books. With a built-in nook that can serve as a computer desk coupled with an eclectic assortment of both open and closed-door storage, it's everything one would want in a home office.

​Get the look:​ West Elm Industrial Modular Open and Closed Storage, $1,099