Shelf Love: 8 of the best shelving units

There are two types of people in this world – those who like to hide everything away in their homes and those who like to show off their treasured items.

If you're the latter, a free-standing shelving unit is a must. Creating a stunning display is about more than just grouping together a collection of stuff – it's as much about what you're arranging it on, and the bare shelves should be as stylish as the items going on them.

Our edit includes the best shelving units on the market with styles to suit a multitude of tastes.

For more storage ideas. See these beautiful bookcases and home libraries to lust over.

Originals room divider, £2,439, Ercol at Heal's

Originals room divider, £2,439, Ercol at Heal's

This classic mid-century design, the Originals Room Divider is a classic piece of furniture was designed by Ercol founder Lucian Ercolani in the 1950s.

Austin oak 5 shelf bookcase, £495, Matt Long at Habitat

Austin oak 5 shelf bookcase, £495, Matt Long at Habitat

Clean, pure and elegant, this criss cross bookcase evokes the spirit of classic Scandinavian designs from the 50s and 60s.

Trellis shelving single unit set, £1,910, John Eadon at Heal’s

Trellis shelving single unit set, £1,910, John Eadon at Heal’s

Trellis by John Eadon is an open and light freestanding modular shelving system with arched tops, ladder sides and interchangeable panels and shelves.

Yoko shelving unit in dark oak, £699, John Lewis & Partners

Yoko shelving unit in dark oak, £699, John Lewis & Partners

Designed with four shelves that offer ample storage space, this unit has solid wood slats that create individual compartments. Ideal for alcoves and best attached to the wall, it's a sophisticated option for holding your essentials and displaying your accessories.

Compile configuration 7 shelving unit, £1,645, Cecilie Manz for Muuto at Finnish Design Shop

Compile configuration 7 shelving unit, £1,645, Cecilie Manz for Muuto at Finnish Design Shop

Compile, designed by Cecilie Manz, features a matt, powder-coated finish and round corners that give it a light and airy appearance.

Stick system shelving unit, £699, Menu at Utility

Stick system shelving unit, £699, Menu at Utility

The Stick System from Menu offers a vastly versatile shelving system that can fit a variety of different spaces.

Oak large ladder shelf, £395, The White Company

Oak large ladder shelf, £395, The White Company

Combining style and practicality, this large ladder shelf is a great storage solution for your bedroom, living room, hallway or bathroom.

ESU storage unit, £2,410, Charles and Ray Eames for Vitra at Clippings

ESU storage unit, £2,410, Charles and Ray Eames for Vitra at Clippings

It's hard to believe this modern modular shelving unit was designed in 1949 - by Charles and Ray Eames.

Jacky Parker is a London-based freelance journalist and content creator, specialising in interiors, travel and food. From buying guides and real home case studies to shopping and news pages, she produces a wide range of features for national magazines and SEO content for websites


A long-time contributor to Livingetc, as a member of the team, she regularly reports on the latest trends, speaking to experts and discovering the latest tips. Jacky has also written  for other publications such as Homes and Gardens, Ideal Home, Red, Grand Designs, Sunday Times Style and AD, Country Homes and Interiors and ELLE Decoration.