Categories

09 September

Small apartment? See how a shelf can save your space.

 

Living in a small apartment requires smart solutions. Every square meter counts, which is why choosing the right furniture is crucial. A bookshelf, which most people associate only with books, can actually serve many other purposes. It’s a way to create extra storage, visually enlarge the space, and divide areas without building walls. Discover how to use a bookshelf to make your home more comfortable and organized.

How can a bookshelf visually enlarge a small apartment?

A bookshelf is one of the easiest ways to make a space feel more open. Models with open shelves let light pass through, preventing the room from looking cluttered. Light colors, such as white or natural wood, reflect sunlight and make the interior appear more spacious.

A tall, vertical bookshelf draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of higher ceilings. Meanwhile, a unit placed along an entire wall can replace several smaller pieces of furniture, reducing visual chaos. If your apartment is really small, it’s better to avoid heavy, closed designs — instead, choose lightweight, open structures that don’t block the view.

Can a bookshelf replace other furniture in a small apartment?

Yes — and very effectively. In studio apartments, one piece of furniture often needs to serve multiple purposes, and a bookshelf can easily replace several different items:

  • Bedside table: A narrow bookshelf next to the bed can hold books, a lamp, and small items while providing extra shelves.

  • TV stand: A low bookshelf in the living room can serve as a base for the television, with space below for multimedia equipment and accessories.

  • Shoe cabinet: In the hallway, a shelf with narrow tiers can replace bulky, traditional shoe storage.

  • Library: You don’t have to give up your book collection — just dedicate part of the shelf to displaying them.

This multifunctionality saves space and eliminates the need for multiple bulky cabinets that would overwhelm the room.

How to position a bookshelf to gain extra space?

Placement is key in small apartments. Use walls, corners, and vertical space effectively. Corner bookshelves help you utilize areas that often go unused. Tall units allow you to store items up to the ceiling — a smart solution in apartments with limited floor space but decent height.

You can also use a bookshelf as a room divider. In a studio, it can separate the living area from the sleeping zone without blocking light or airflow. Open shelves keep the room airy while adding extra space for books, plants, or decorations.

If your apartment is tiny, consider bookshelves on wheels — you can move them easily and rearrange your layout in minutes.

What types of bookshelves work best in small apartments?

Flexibility matters most in small spaces, so consider:

  • Modular bookshelves – you can expand or rearrange them as your needs change.

  • Corner shelves – make use of underutilized areas.

  • Mobile shelves on wheels – perfect for quick layout changes.

  • Wall-mounted shelves – save floor space and help keep things tidy, especially in kitchens or bathrooms.

The best type depends on the room. In the living area, tall open shelves work well; in the bathroom, choose a narrow, moisture-resistant model; and in the hallway, a low one that doesn’t block the entrance.

Why is a bookshelf the best solution for a small apartment?

Because it combines multiple functions in one piece without restricting space like large wardrobes or heavy dressers. A bookshelf can serve as storage, decoration, or even a light partition wall. It offers flexibility — you can move or rearrange it as needed, which is especially valuable in small spaces.

Instead of investing in several separate pieces of furniture, one well-chosen bookshelf can do it all. It saves money, space, and adds comfort to everyday living. That’s why a bookshelf is often the go-to choice for anyone furnishing a small apartment.