IKEA Bookcases – Simple Guide to Pick, Place, and Style

If you’ve ever walked into an IKEA aisle and wondered which bookcase will actually work in your room, you’re not alone. The right IKEA bookcase can add storage, showcase décor, and keep a bedroom looking tidy – all without breaking the bank. Below you’ll find a no‑fluff rundown of the most popular options, how to measure for a perfect fit, and a few styling tricks that make the piece feel custom‑made for your East Yorkshire home.

Which IKEA Bookcase Works for Your Space?

Start with the classics. The Billy series is the go‑to for tall, narrow storage. It comes in heights from 106 cm to 202 cm, so you can match ceiling height or leave room for a top‑shelf display. If you need a square shape that doubles as a room divider, look at Kallax. Its 77 cm cubes stack horizontally or vertically, and you can add doors, bins, or decorative boxes for a sleek look.

For a low‑profile option that fits under a window sill, the Lommarp series offers shallow depth (about 30 cm) and a modern veneer finish. It’s perfect for a bedroom where you want the bookcase to stay out of the way but still hold enough books, photos, and a few ornaments. Don’t forget the Besta line if you need a custom‑size unit – the modular system lets you combine shelves, cabinets, and drawers to fill an awkward nook.

When you measure, add a couple of centimeters for wall clearance and think about the floor type. If you have hardwood flooring, a thin felt or rubber pad under the legs prevents scratches. For carpeted rooms, choose a model with wider legs or place a protective mat to keep the piece stable.

Styling Tips for a Cohesive Look

Finish matters. IKEA now offers several veneer options – light oak, walnut, and even a matte black. Pick a colour that echoes your bedroom’s existing furniture. If you have a white duvet and a dark wooden wardrobe, a medium oak Billy blends nicely without looking mismatched.

Use the top shelf as a vignette. A small plant, a framed photo, and a decorative tray create visual interest without clutter. For Kallax, add fabric bins in a colour that matches your bedding; they hide toys or extra blankets while keeping the clean box lines intact.

Lighting can change the vibe in an instant. Clip‑on LED strips on the inner edges of a Billy or Besta unit add a warm glow for evening reading. If you prefer a minimalist feel, stick to the built‑in IKEA LED lamps that fit into the back of a shelf.

Finally, think about practicality. If the bookcase will hold heavy books, reinforce the middle shelves with metal brackets – a quick DIY step that adds strength. And always anchor tall units to the wall; it’s a safety requirement, especially in homes with kids or pets.

Whether you’re furnishing a small city flat in Hull or a spacious house near Beverley, an IKEA bookcase can be tailored to fit your storage needs and style preferences. Pick the right model, measure carefully, add a few personal touches, and you’ll have a piece that feels custom‑made without the custom price tag.