ᐅ Which storage solutions fit best in BILLY shelves?

Created on: 13 Sep 2024 10:17
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gano41
Hello everyone, I am currently working on optimizing my storage in IKEA Billy bookcases and have a specific question: Which storage solutions fit best in Billy bookcases to make the most of the available height and depth without making access difficult? I am especially interested in flexible options that work well for both books and small items, while avoiding anything too bulky or cluttered. Besides functionality, the solutions should also be visually appealing, as the bookcase is a focal point in the living room. I look forward to any experiences, recommendations, or tips on products that have proven effective.
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gano41
13 Sep 2024 16:42
Thanks for the tips so far!
Dilen schrieb:
What is the center of gravity in your shelving unit? Are books or other items more dominant for storage?

The weight is mainly from books, but I also want to store smaller items like craft supplies, cables, and small devices. I was thinking of using larger boxes at the bottom for bulky items, and shallower, more accessible containers in the middle and top for frequently used things. It's important to me that the overall look stays fairly balanced since the shelving unit is open, with no doors.

Do you have any recommendations on how to keep it uniform yet functional?
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Kinbu
13 Sep 2024 17:18
That sounds like a very well-organized plan you have. To ensure both functionality and appearance, I recommend the following points:

- Use transparent boxes for frequently used items. This allows for quick overview and keeps the space looking tidy.
- For small items on the top shelf, flat boxes with clearly labeled lids work well, for example, made of fabric or plastic.
- For the lower section, boxes with good stability are advisable. Possibly even ones with wheels if they need to be easily pulled out.
- Regarding color: uniform box colors create a calmer look, while boxes made of different materials should be well coordinated with each other.
gano41 schrieb:
Dabei ist mir wichtig, dass die Optik einigermaßen harmonisch bleibt, da das Regal offen bleibt

This is an important point to consider when choosing materials and colors. Plastic often gives a cooler impression, fabric feels warmer, and wood-look boxes create a completely different effect.
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flo-Theres
13 Sep 2024 18:05
As an addition: Those focusing on sustainability might consider boxes made from recycled materials or fabric boxes made of cotton or jute. These are more visually appealing and often fit better into living spaces. However, they are less shape-stable than plastic boxes, which is especially important to consider for lower levels and heavier loads.
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Marcellela
14 Sep 2024 09:12
Basically, use simple boxes with handles that fit well into the shelf depth. IKEA storage boxes themselves offer a great system, as they are often perfectly coordinated. For books, it is better to add side or back supports directly to relieve the shelf.
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KAULIS
14 Sep 2024 11:47
One could also consider using so-called "basket inserts" for frequently used items, which are placed in front of the access area and are easy to remove. This prevents having to rearrange the entire shelf and optimizes usability.
Kinbu schrieb:
Color: Uniform box colors create a calmer appearance

That hits the point— a consistent look supports visual order and reduces the visual effort required to maintain the shelf. Therefore, when choosing materials and colors, attention should be paid to a harmonious overall concept.