Invisible shelving is a very popular, cheap, and highly efficient new way of managing space. It’s also a major décor trend around the world. These DIY shelving designs come in a vast range of possible styles and configurations. If you’ve seen some of those ultra-modern lifestyle magazines showing books seemingly suspended in mid-air, that’s the classic form of invisible shelving. The shelving is covered by the books floating on the shelves, hence the expression “floating bookshelf”.

Good News for Space-Hungry Homeowners

One thing that everyone needs to consider with interior décor is how much space it will take up. Luckily for homeowners, invisible shelving excels in this area and many others. It is:

  • Very cheap, customisable, and easy to install
  • Able to be installed literally anywhere you have room to create the space
  • Perfect for a DIY project
  • The easy way to free up space, de-clutter books and create stunning décor

Floating Bookshelf Basics

Installing a floating bookshelf is quite straightforward, but you need to prepare and plan your installation to maximise the benefits. It’s important to take some time to consider your needs and options.

Here are some points to consider:

  • Sheet metal bookshelves are considered a great option. They’re typically bent on the side which attaches to the wall, with perforations for screws. Some shelves may also include end folds to hold books. Consider the size of the books when planning your shelving sizes.
  • Custom made metal bookshelves are easily scalable and can be put literally anywhere. You can have very large floating bookshelves or small groups of books on separate shelves in different locations. Many people tailor their bookshelves to match their home libraries, organising the books as well as creating the new shelving.
  • The weight of your books really does matter, a lot. Best practice is to ensure that your metal shelving can take the load easily.

 Floating Bookshelf Installation, Step by Step

  1. Give yourself plenty of clear space to work before installation
  2. Mark out the place for installation and measure for size. The shelving position should be easy to access, with no space conflicts with other features.
  3. Use a basic power drill to create the screw-on points, preferably with an appropriate thread maker.
  4. Attach the shelf, and ensure that it’s tightly screwed in to the wall.
  5. Test the shelf with your books, one at a time. There should be no movement at all from the shelving or the books, when placed on the shelves. If there is, tighten the shelf screws until movement stops. You can use bolts and washers, and also brackets, if necessary.
  6. That’s it! Easy, fast, efficient, and you’ve also just created a lot of valuable space for your books.

If you’re looking for custom shelving in Brisbane, come and explore the Queensland Sheet Metal range and talk to our experts.