Updated on Aug. 16, 2024
The basement can be a notoriously messy space. Clean up, get organized and reclaim your lower level with these creative basement shelving ideas.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.
Call it whatever you want—play room, media room, game room—but a basement space that incorporates games, toys and an entertainment section needs shelving.
In this basement by Instagram user @threegalsandtwoguys, bookshelves are cleverly arranged around the TV to create the look of a custom built-in piece (without the price tag). For a similar look, you’ll need two short bookcases and two tall bookcases. Check out the Wahl Bookcase for an affordable option.
This wall of built-in shelves from Instagram user @atouchoftippy includes open and closed storage, as well as a desk. It’s a smart example of how to fit a ton of storage and a workspace in a room that also serves as a TV-viewing and lounge area. Plus, the moody black finish proves that you shouldn’t be afraid to use dark paint colors, even in a basement.
Pottery Barn’s Logan Desk with Bookcase Suite delivers a similar look without demanding the time commitment of a DIY shelving project.
Is your holiday decor a chaotic mess of stacked bins and baskets? Get them organized with some heavy-duty shelves, like the ones used here by Instagram user @the.halvy.house.
These are effective for a storage room, because the height and shelves adjust to fit low ceilings, and the steel construction holds up well to basement moisture. Another handy tip: For bin labels, use outdoor letter stickers rather than craft store stickers for longer durability.
The basement is an adequate out-of-the-way space to experiment with DIY furniture projects. This cute arched shelf, built by Instagram user @functional_decor, is an Ikea hack made to look like this more expensive version. We love how the bright toys pop against the black backdrop of the shelves. A tall piece like this is also a clever way to draw the eye up and make low basement ceilings appear taller.
Every little inch of storage space helps when organizing your home, so don’t overlook basement nooks and crannies like, the empty area under your stairs.
In this example from Instagram user @hope.homes.happiness, the awkward triangular-shaped space becomes a storage area with the right accessories. Shelves alone don’t always work, but matching baskets elevate the style and organization of a shelving unit.
This wall of built-in shelves from Instagram user @atouchoftippy includes open and closed storage, as well as a desk. It’s a smart example of how to fit a ton of storage and a workspace in a room that also serves as a TV-viewing and lounge area. Plus, the moody black finish proves that you shouldn’t be afraid to use dark paint colors, even in a basement.
Pottery Barn’s Logan Desk with Bookcase Suite delivers a similar look without demanding the time commitment of a DIY shelving project.
Is your holiday decor a chaotic mess of stacked bins and baskets? Get them organized with some heavy-duty shelves, like the ones used here by Instagram user @the.halvy.house.
These are effective for a storage room, because the height and shelves adjust to fit low ceilings, and the steel construction holds up well to basement moisture. Another handy tip: For bin labels, use outdoor letter stickers rather than craft store stickers for longer durability.
The basement is an adequate out-of-the-way space to experiment with DIY furniture projects. This cute arched shelf, built by Instagram user @functional_decor, is an Ikea hack made to look like this more expensive version. We love how the bright toys pop against the black backdrop of the shelves. A tall piece like this is also a clever way to draw the eye up and make low basement ceilings appear taller.
Every little inch of storage space helps when organizing your home, so don’t overlook basement nooks and crannies like, the empty area under your stairs.
In this example from Instagram user @hope.homes.happiness, the awkward triangular-shaped space becomes a storage area with the right accessories. Shelves alone don’t always work, but matching baskets elevate the style and organization of a shelving unit.
Who says basement storage can’t be equal parts useful and attractive? This awkward nook next to the basement stairs could have been dusty, wasted space. But thanks to a smart solution by Instagram user @primspace, it’s a functional and decorative area. Simple white shelves and matching baskets (along with some handy labels) hide and organize tools, safety items and other miscellaneous supplies.
