Industrial style décor has become a hugely popular interior design trend in recent years. The factory chic aesthetic brings a cool, edgy vibe through the use of materials like metal, wood, concrete, and brick. Exposed pipes, galvanized steel, and reclaimed wood add urban loft inspiration. One great way to incorporate industrial elements into your home is with metal and wood bookshelves.
Beyond just looks, bookshelves provide valuable storage and organization. Sturdy industrial-style units allow you to neatly display books, art, collectibles, and more while freeing up floor space. When choosing an industrial bookshelf, consider the key factors like material, size, weight capacity, and adjustability. Think about your space limitations, organizational needs, and overall interior decor goals.
This article will highlight the top 5 industrial metal and wood bookshelves available. We’ll also offer tips on how to choose the perfect shelf for your home. Get ready to add striking industrial flair while keeping your belongings tidy and displayed. Let’s explore some riveting industrial bookshelf options!
Top 5 Industrial Metal and Wood Bookshelves
Industrial 87” Double Wide Bookshelf by Originate
This spacious double wide bookshelf is handcrafted from powder coated steel in crisp white or black frame options. The six wide shelves provide ample storage for books, decor, plants, and more. Smooth angled legs add subtle modern flair. Reviewers praise the clean, minimalist design and sturdy steel frame. Flat pack shipping simplifies assembly.
Key Features:
- Durable steel frame with powder coated finish
- 87” wide x 14” deep x 67” high
- Six 14” deep shelves hold up to 50 lbs each
- Angled legs and cross beam supports
- Modern minimalist aesthetic
- Easy assembly with included tools
- Pros: Generous width, heavy-duty steel frame, minimalist design
- Cons: Expensive, delicate finish may scratch over time
- Price: $599
Hendrik 85” Industrial Reclaimed Wood Bookshelf
This rustic industrial-style shelf features a steel frame with shelves made from solid reclaimed pine wood. The multi-toned wood grain and galvanized metal hardware give retro warehouse vibes. With a weight capacity of 99 lbs per shelf, it provides sturdy storage. Some assembly is required for this high-quality handmade piece.
Key Features:
- Steel frame with reclaimed wood shelves
- 85” wide x 16” deep x 72” high
- Six shelves hold up to 99 lbs each
- Reclaimed pine wood with galvanized accents
- Vintage industrial warehouse aesthetic
- Handmade quality construction
- Pros: Sturdy reclaimed wood shelves, vintage appeal
- Cons: Expensive, significant assembly required
- Price: $949
Basics Industrial-Style 5-Tier Bookshelf
This budget-friendly industrial metal shelf has an open and airy five-tier design. The powder coated steel frame interlocks securely without tools or hardware. You can assemble this modular shelf in minutes. Five shelves provide ample organization and display options. Add industrial character to any room without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Powder coated steel interlocking frame
- 63” wide x 16” deep x 63” high
- Five shelves hold up to 25 lbs each
- Minimalist modular design
- Easy tool-free assembly
- Pros: Very affordable, quick assembly, crisp modern design
- Cons: Less durable than solid wood or steel
- Price: $69
Walker Edison Universal Industrial Bookshelf
Walker Edison’s universal industrial shelf strikes a balance between solid wood warm and steel durability. The powder coated steel frame supports two sturdy solid pine wood shelves. Choose from multiple finish options including black, white, and galvanized steel frames with blonde, black, or natural wood shelves.
Key Features:
- Steel frame with solid pine wood shelves
- 36” wide x 16” deep x 63” high
- Two shelves hold up to 150 lbs each
- Adjustable shelf positions
- Mixed materials industrial design
- Pros: Combines wood and metal aesthetics, adjustable shelves
- Cons: Smaller than other options
- Price: $169
Storage Market Industrial 4-Shelf Bookcase
This four-shelf industrial bookcase maximizes storage capacity with the ability to hold over 1,000 lbs of books or décor. The solid steel frame ensures durability while angled wood-look shelves provide an eclectic, urban vibe. Use this expansive bookshelf as a room divider or statement piece.
Key Features:
- Steel frame with laminated particle board shelves
- 47” wide x 16” deep x 75” high
- Four shelves hold up to 300 lbs each
- Angled shelving and exposed frame
- Pros: Extremely sturdy, urban loft style
- Cons: Large footprint, assembly can be tricky
- Price: $259
How to Choose an Industrial Bookshelf
Now that you’ve got the rundown on some riveting industrial bookshelf options, let’s explore the key factors to evaluate when choosing the right shelf for your home. Carefully considering material, size, weight capacity, and other elements will ensure you select the perfect storage solution.
Material Matters
The materials used to construct an industrial bookshelf make a huge impact both aesthetically and functionally. Metal and wood each have their pros and cons.
Metal like iron, steel, or aluminum have an inherently industrial vibe. The sleek lines and metallic tones fit right into warehouse, factory, or urban loft designs. Metal shelves typically have a more minimalist, open appearance with exposed frames. They can support ample weight given the inherent durability and strength of materials like steel. You’ll find many adjustable, modular metal bookshelves since they assemble easily.
The downside of metal is it can sometimes feel sterile or cold depending on finishes like galvanized steel or raw iron. The industrial aesthetic also won’t work in all decors. Compared to wood, metal is resistant to water damage but can be prone to rust over time.
Wood shelves provide more warmth and visual interest with natural grain, knots, and texture variations. Materials like pine, oak, acacia, and walnut are commonly used. Solid wood planks tend to cost more but bring artisanal appeal. The layered stacked wood design aligned with industrial style.
On the downside, wood requires occasional conditioning, polishing, or oiling to prevent drying out or water damage. All-wood bookshelves typically have a higher price point and involve more intricate assembly. If you like the wood look but not ongoing maintenance, shelves with laminate wood-patterned surfaces are an option.
If you just can’t decide between wood or metal, look for adjustable hybrid bookshelves with a metal frame and wood shelf inserts. This gives you the best of both worlds!
Size Matters Too
When selecting an industrial bookshelf, you’ll need to carefully measure the space intended for the unit. Make sure to leave enough room to easily access the shelf for adding/removing items. Standard bookshelf dimensions range from:
- Width: 25” – 95”
- Depth: 12” – 20”
- Height: 30” – 84”
Taller bookshelves work better as room dividers or against larger walls. Low profile shelves under five feet are ideal for small spaces. For media storage near TVs, look for shorter widths around 25-35” wide.
Consider the variety of items you intend to display on the shelves. Will they be mostly books, or a mix of decor, plants, collectibles? Measure both typical item sizes and dimensions to ensure your industrial shelf offers optimal usable space.
It’s smart to buy bigger than your current needs to allow for growth. You can always leave a shelf or two empty while your collection expands into the extra room. With an industrial style shelf as a prominent feature, you want to make sure it adequately fills the intended space.
Weight Capacity
Industrial style metal and wood bookshelves are designed to handle ample weight and storage. But maximum capacities vary widely based on material, construction, and size. Smaller shelves may hold just 20-30 pounds per shelf. Large heavy-duty units can support over 200 pounds per shelf.
Always check the manufacturer’s recommended weight limits for each shelf and the overall unit. Exceeding the limits can lead to bowing, collapse, or complete breakdown. Both metal and wood are susceptible when overloaded, especially cheaper compressed wood boards.
For stability, add weight evenly across shelves. Place heavier items on lower shelves to keep the center of gravity low. Proper wall anchoring also helps reinforce against tipping or slipping. Don’t take shortcuts that could put your precious items or home at risk.
Adjustability Adds Functionality
Many industrial bookshelves allow you to easily adjust shelf positions or create new configurations. This versatility lets you customize the unit as your storage needs change. Look for shelves and slots that align every few inches for maximum flexibility.
Being able to insert shelves at different heights or angles is useful for accommodating a variety of item sizes. Adjustable shelves should be removable and repositionable without tools. This allows quick modifications down the road.
Modular metal shelving systems tend to offer the most adjustability. But even solid wood bookshelves often have adjustable components. Just double check that the shelf material itself can handle movement and repositioning without compromising durability.
Style and Design
Industrial style comes in many forms ranging from boldly rustic to subtly modern. Consider whether you want an open frame design or closed storage with doors. The amount of shelving, layout, and hardware affects the overall aesthetic.
Exposed, minimalist metal bookshelves have an edgy urban vibe. Wooden crates stacked on an open metal frame add warehouse character. Enclosed shelving units with cabinet doors provide tidier storage for a cleaner look.
Seeking a particular finish like galvanized steel, raw steel, or lightly whitewashed wood? Add vintage flair with distressed wood or faded paint patinas. Avoid ornate embellishments and carvings for a classic industrial warehouse bookshelf look.
Let color accents come from books, decor, and accessories. Keep the shelf finish itself simple to let the materials shine. Crisp black, white, distressed wood, or unfinished metal keep the focus on books and collectibles.
Assembly and Installation
Pre-assembled bookshelves allow you to set them up immediately out of the box. But most quality industrial-style units require some assembly. This allows more compact shipping at lower costs.
Modular powder coated metal shelving snaps together by interlocking the steel frame. This requires no tools for quick, easy assembly. Solid wood shelves involve more care to attach sides, mounting brackets, and inserts properly.
Look for clear instructions and all necessary hardware and tools provided. For complicated assemblies, hire professional installation help. If you assemble it yourself, have a helper for large, bulky shelves.
Once assembled securely, anchor your bookshelf safely into studs in the wall. Prevent tipping accidents by using provided hardware. For masonry walls, use special anchors rated for the weight. Securing towering bookshelves is crucial.
Cost Considerations
Industrial shelves range from under $100 for budget-friendly units to $1000+ for handcrafted wood designs. Materials make the biggest impact on price.
- Metal: $70 – $350
- Wood: $150 – $900
- Metal and Wood Hybrid: $125 – $350
Larger dimensions, weight capacities, and specialty details will fall on the more expensive end of the spectrum. But evaluate cost in the context of durability – a well-made industrial shelf can serve your family for a lifetime.
Quality materials like solid wood, steel, and iron last for decades with proper care. Consider the long-term value over obsessing about the lowest upfront price tag. And check for manufacturer warranties for added peace of mind.
Style for Maximum Visual Impact
An industrial bookshelf acts as both storage solution and style statement. Use these tips to maximize visual appeal:
- Place your new shelf in a main focal area like behind a sofa or adjacent to your TV.
- Style symmetrically for pleasing organization. Group book sets, matching objects, and sets of 3 or 5 items.
- Add accent lighting above or inside the shelf to highlight displayed items.
- Choose a mix of items to display like books, photos, art, greenery, and collectibles. Vary shapes, colors, and textures.
- Anchor the shelf properly and load evenly to prevent sagging over time.
- Condition wood shelves and dust metal frames periodically to maintain the factory-chic vibe.
Ready to add bold industrial flair while organizing your home? Now that you know what to evaluate in metal and wood bookshelves, you can confidently choose the perfect shelf to meet your needs. Bring striking form and function into your space with an industrial-chic storage solution. Happy shelf shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions about Industrial Bookshelves
Still have some lingering questions about selecting and using metal and wood industrial bookshelves? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Are industrial bookshelves difficult to assemble?
It depends on the specific design! Modular powder coated steel shelves snap together easily without tools. But solid wood shelves require carefully attaching the frame, sides, and shelves. Look for clear instructions and all hardware included. For complicated builds, hire professional assembly help.
How much weight can they hold?
That varies based on size and materials. A small 36” shelf may do 50 pounds per shelf. A large 90” solid wood shelf can hold 500+ pounds when properly loaded. Always check manufacturer rated capacity and weight limits.
Should I anchor the bookshelf to the wall?
Yes! Securely anchoring prevents tipping, especially with uneven weight. Use provided wall mounting hardware appropriate for your wall type. Reinforce tall, heavy bookshelves for safety.
What’s the best way to clean and care for them?
For metal, gently dust with a dry cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners. For wood, use mild soap and water then dry immediately. Apply conditioning oil periodically as recommend. Prevent excess moisture damage.
What style works best in a modern home?
Open, minimalist metal frames with an uncluttered footprint look most modern. Or choose lighter wood tones like natural oak or pine. Avoid overly ornate or heavily distressed finishes. Let decor add color, not the shelf.
Should I get a metal or wood industrial shelf?
Metal like steel or iron provides sleek durability but can feel cold. Wood adds warmth but needs occasional maintenance. Hybrid designs with a metal frame and wood shelves provide balanced benefits. Choose what best suits your decor!
Add Storage Style with Industrial Bookshelves
Hopefully this detailed guide provided you with the key considerations for choosing an industrial metal or wood bookshelf for your home. Measure your space, assess your needs and style preferences, examine material and construction options, and evaluate quality and costs.
Once you select the perfect industrial-inspired shelf, it’s sure to become a beloved decorative feature and storage solution for your most treasured belongings. Enjoy the organized urban flair!