Restoration Hardware Bookshelf

Everything You Need to Know Before Investing in Luxury Shelving

Restoration Hardware is known for its high-end, luxury furniture and home goods. Their collection of bookshelves is no exception, offering beautifully crafted shelves in a variety of styles. As with anything from Restoration Hardware, these bookshelves do not come cheap. With higher price tags comes an expectation for quality craftsmanship and exceptional durability from these shelves.

This buying guide covers everything you need to know before making the investment in a Restoration Hardware bookshelf for your home. We’ll explore the materials, styles, sizes, customization options and more so you can make an informed decision when purchasing one of these statement-making bookshelves.

Styles of Restoration Hardware Bookshelves

Restoration Hardware offers bookshelves in a diverse range of styles to suit any home decor and design aesthetic. From sleek and contemporary to ornately carved traditional designs, you’re sure to find a shelf that aligns with your taste. Here are some of the most popular styles of Restoration Hardware bookshelves:

• Modern and contemporary: Characterized by clean lines, minimal ornamentation and materials like metal and acrylic. The Monroe Bookcase has an architectural, modular design. The Aviator Bookcase is made from aluminum for an ultramodern look.
• Traditional: Detailed molding, baseboards, crown detailing and materials like solid mahogany give these shelves old-world elegance. The Heirloom Bookcase features turned legs, shaped aprons and fretwork.
• Farmhouse and cottage: Woven rattan, painted finishes and distressed detailing give these bookshelves casual, inviting style. The Havana Bookcase has a beachy woven front on the cabinet doors.
• Industrial: Exposed metal framework, rivets and raw materials like reclaimed wood bring an urban loft feel. The Engineer Bookcase has blackened steel supports and mesh screening.
• Vintage and antique recreations: Ornate details, carved accents and distressed finishes make these bookshelves look like true antiques. The Renwick Bookcase mimics 18th century British style with extra detailing.

Materials Used for Restoration Hardware Bookshelves

Since these bookshelves are meant to last, Restoration Hardware uses high-quality materials in their construction. Understanding these materials can help you pick the right shelf based on your needs. Here are some of the most common:

• Solid wood: Oak, alder, maple, birch, mahogany and other woods provide stability, durability and natural beauty. Many shelves combine solid wood framing with other materials.
• Reclaimed wood: Wood salvaged from old buildings or industrial settings brings rustic, worn character from its previous life.
• Metal: Steel, aluminum and iron offer modern style and industrial edge. Some bookshelves come in all-metal frameworks while others combine metal and wood.
• Glass: Glass paneling, doors or shelves lend an airy, open feel and allow you to display treasured items. Shelves like the Drake Bookcase combine glass and metal.
• Rattan: For an organic look, woven rattan is used as paneling or fronting for doors on some farmhouse and cottage-style bookshelves.
• Upholstered: Leather, linen or cotton upholstery on cabinet doors or shelves provides soft, inviting texture.

Are Restoration Hardware Bookshelves Made from Solid Wood?

Many Restoration Hardware bookshelves do incorporate solid wood into their construction, which adds to their structural integrity and durability. However, most blend solid wood with other materials like metal, glass or rattan paneling.

Some bookshelves that feature solid wood elements include:

• Wellington Bookcase – Solid oak shelves and framing
• Renwick Bookcase – Mahogany veneers and poplar solids
• Monroe Bookcase – Walnut veneers and hardwood solids
• Salvaged Wood Bookcase – Solid mango wood and salvaged pine
• Heirloom Bookcase – American cherry veneers and select hardwood solids

Keep in mind that “solid wood” may refer to just portions of the shelf rather than the entire case. Look closely at product descriptions to understand which elements contain solid wood versus manmade materials. This will help inform the quality and longevity you can expect from the shelf.

Popular Restoration Hardware Bookshelf Designs

Some of the most coveted and top-selling Restoration Hardware bookshelves include:

• Salvaged Wood Open Bookcase: With an exposed metal frame and shelves made from solid mango wood and salvaged antique pine, this bookcase has rustic modern appeal. The open design provides both display and storage possibilities.
• Drake Glass Door Bookcase: Sleek powder-coated steel and glass doors secured with flat metal X details give this shelf an industrial vibe. The glass allows you to showcase select books or objects while concealing others.
• Rectory Bookcase: Modeled after antique French cabinetry, this bookshelf has a charming distressed cream finish. The dovetailed drawer, carved moldings and turned bun feet add old-world character.
• Prestbury Double Bookcase: With a solid oak frame and wire mesh screen back, this double bookcase brings English cottage appeal. The split middle shelf allows you to store oversized books.
• Montauk Bookcase: Woven seagrass cabinet doors and side panels paired with a light oak frame give this shelf breezy, coastal style. The airy, beachy design works in casual spaces.

Finding the Right Bookshelf Style for Your Home

No matter your interior design taste, Restoration Hardware likely offers a bookshelf to match. The key is choosing one that aligns with the existing aesthetic of your space. Here are some tips for finding a style that works for you:

• Take cues from your current decor – colors, materials, themes. Select a bookshelf that enhances your overall style.
• Consider the room function. Shelves for living rooms or bedrooms can be more ornate. Office shelves may require simpler, clean-lined designs.
• Look for versatile “transitional” designs if struggling between two styles, like modern farmhouse or rustic industrial.
• View online photos of the bookshelf style in real home settings to envision how it may look in your space.
• Don’t overlook small details – feet, hardware, molding – that add character and define the style.
• Look for styles with flexibility, like adjustable shelves or optional doors, to get more versatility.

Bottom line: Choose the Restoration Hardware bookshelf design that brings your personality and style to life while fitting seamlessly into your existing decor.

Are Restoration Hardware Bookshelves Modern?

While better known for their vintage and ornate designs, Restoration Hardware does offer some contemporary, modern-style bookshelves. Sleeker metal materials, unembellished lines and minimalist forms characterize their more modern shelf options.

Some modern styles to consider include:

• Aviator Bookcase – Made from aluminum with removable rivet shelves, this industrial style shelf has an ultramodern look.
• Profile Bookcase – The open metal frame design gives a floating, gravity-defying illusion. Choose glass or wood shelves.
• AXIS Bookcase – A mix of metal, wood and acrylic, this asymmetrically stacked shelf brings artsy contrast.
• Dorset Bookcase – Clean lines and an acrylic-sided open frame make this bookshelf minimalist and modern.
• Monroe Bookcase – Architecturally inspired stacked cubes are midcentury modern in solid wood or acrylic.
• Franklin Shelf – The solid steel frame with wood shelf brings streamlined, contemporary style to any room.

While not their primary aesthetic, Restoration Hardware does offer modern bookshelf options for those seeking a more pared-down, contemporary look. Combining metal and wood is a common theme across their modern designs for contrast and interest.

Industrial and Vintage Bookshelves from Restoration Hardware

In addition to their signature ornately detailed shelves, Restoration Hardware also offers a compelling selection of industrial and vintage-style bookshelves. These shelves pair distressed woods, patinas, and metals for on-trend lived-in style.

Industrial bookshelves feature exposed joinery, rough finishes and materials like woods salvaged from old buildings. Options include:

• Engineer Bookcase – Blackened steel bolts and mesh screening
• Providence Bookcase – Salvaged antique oak with metal reinforcements
• Signature Iron + Wood Bookcase – Salavaged solid pine and blackened iron

Vintage-inspired bookshelves recreate the charm of antiqued shelving with details like distressing and wear. Choices include:

• Emery Bookcase – Inspired by 19th century French Gustavian designs
• Renwick Bookcase – Turned legs and fretwork mimic 18th century British style
• Farmer’s Door Bookcase – Carved cabriole legs and tapered molding for colonial charm
• Lincoln Bookcase – Arched crown molding and Louis Philippe style inspired by antiques

These industrial and vintage Restoration Hardware bookshelves allow you to add weathered, timeworn character to your space. Reimagined historical details and salvaged woods make them look like treasured flea market finds.

Sizing and Dimensions: Bookshelves for Small Spaces

With shelves ranging from petite accent pieces to expansive wall-to-wall systems, Restoration Hardware offers bookshelves to fit rooms of all sizes. Even if you have a smaller room, they have compact bookshelves to maximize your space.

Some of their best options for small spaces include:

• Holden Shelf – At just 16” wide, this compact shelf tucks onto petite walls.
• Reiner Shelf – This narrow book ledge is only 8” deep for a small footprint.
• Whitstable Shelf – Shorter shelving height of 59” is ideal for small rooms.
• Printer’s Shelf – Tiny 15” width saves space but still fits books.
• Gallery Short Bookcase – 30” height works beautifully in cozy loft bedrooms.
• Salvaged Wood Open Bookcase – Shallow depth of 12” conserves floor space.
• Montauk Low Bookcase – Squat proportions at 31” height suit bungalow homes.

Don’t be dissuaded from Restoration Hardware if your home is on the smaller side. Take measurements to find shelves suited for your room’s parameters. You can still get their signature style in sizes made for compact spaces.

Durability and Longevity of Restoration Hardware Bookshelves

While certainly an investment, Restoration Hardware bookshelves are meant to stand the test of time. Quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensure they can weather years of practical use while retaining their beauty. Here’s how they promote longevity:

• Solid wood frames and cabinet bases provide stability and prevent sagging.
• Dovetail joinery reinforces corners and prevents separation over time.
• Glass doors are tempered for added strength and shatter-resistance.
• Adjustable shelves locked with pins allow you to level and realign shelves as needed.
• Hidden hardware eliminates protruding components that may loosen or break over time.
• Glass encased cabinet tops protect surfaces from spills and scratches.
• Stain-resistant finishes prevent absorption of liquids so wood retains its integrity.
• Antiquing and distressing mimic signs of natural wear so aging is inconspicuous.
• Removable back panels allow for easy cleaning and maintenance.

While no furniture lasts forever, Restoration Hardware bookshelves are thoughtfully engineered for enhanced durability and a significantly longer lifespan than ready-to-assemble pieces.

Customizing Your Restoration Hardware Bookshelf

Beyond their stock designs, Restoration Hardware also offers customization services to truly personalize your bookshelf. This allows you to tailor both aesthetics and function to suit your needs. Customization options include:

• Extended heights up to 125” to maximize full wall space
• Adjustable depths to fit specific nooks or dimensions
• Made-to-order sizes not offered in standard dimensions
• Choice of premium wood types and finishes like walnut or black oak
• Accent colors and distressing levels to match your decor
• Option of open backing or finished back panels
• Added base moldings, decorative feet, or crown detailing
• Specialty hardware like brass casters or pulls
• Glass door inserts for both display and dust protection
• Interior lighting systems to elegantly spotlight treasured items
• Removable cabinet tops to convert bookcases into stocked bars

While custom Restoration Hardware bookshelves do not come cheap, the unlimited options ensure you get a personalized, one-of-a-kind shelf perfect for your space.

Adjustable and Removable Shelves

Nearly all bookshelves from Restoration Hardware feature adjustable shelf heights to provide the utmost flexibility. Shelves securely lock in place at 2 to 3 inch intervals along the interior framework. This allows you to customize shelf positioning to accommodate items of all heights.

Removable shelves also make it easy to fully rearrange your bookshelf as your storage and display needs evolve. Extra shelves can be added down the road to expand storage capacity. You can also remove shelves to create open display space.

Note that glass shelving, common in more modern metal bookcases, is fixed rather than adjustable. Make sure to choose the correct shelf height intervals when purchasing.

For the most flexibility, the signature salvaged wood bookshelf line offers fully adjustable shelves that can be completely repositioned or removed to create any configuration. Locking metal pins allow you to securely set shelves at any desired height.

Bookshelves Built for Heavy Books

With solid wood frames, thick shelves, and quality joinery, Restoration Hardware bookshelves are constructed to handle heavy books. This prevents sagging shelves and leaning bookcases, even when fully loaded with dense book collections.

Some of their strongest bookshelf options include:

• Salvaged Wood Bookshelf – Solid oak frames and 1.5” thick shelves hold hundreds of pounds of books.
• Renwick Bookshelf – Mahogany veneered cabinet and base provide stability even when packed with books.
• Prestbury Bookshelf – Shelves made from 1.5” oak with turned posts and stretcher base distribute weight.
• Providence Bookshelf – Industrial style iron brackets and 1.25” salvaged wood shelves support books.
• Heirloom Bookshelf – American cherry solids and veneers construct the sturdy cabinet structure.
• Farmer’s Door Bookcase – Dovetailed case, crown molding, and bracket feet provide durability and strength.

While adding doors and glass may limit weight capacity, most open-backed solid wood Restoration Hardware bookshelves can comfortably hold hundreds of dense books.

How Restoration Hardware Bookshelves Compare to Other Luxury Brands

As a premiere luxury furniture brand, Restoration Hardware bookshelves compete with other high-end retailers like Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, West Elm and even custom furniture makers. Here’s how their bookshelves compare:

• Quality: Restoration Hardware uses thicker solid wood, durable finishes and quality joinery for heirloom construction.
• Styles: Known for ornate traditional and vintage styles, but also contemporary and modern options. More variety than Pottery Barn.
• Customization: From sizes to finishes, Restoration Hardware offers full custom options for personalized shelves.
• Price: More expensive than Pottery Barn and Crate and Barrel, but lower price points than full custom cabinetry.
• Shipping: Free White Glove Delivery included with signature tiered membership program.
• Showrooms: Physical showrooms allow you to see and feel products. Most competitors are online-only.

For luxury bookshelves with character and quality craftsmanship, Restoration Hardware tends to surpass mass retailers in uniqueness while undercutting full custom pricing.

Glass Door Bookcases: Displaying Treasures

For those seeking both open and enclosed storage, Restoration Hardware offers many bookshelves with glass door cabinet options. This allows you to elegantly showcase select items while keeping other shelves private.

Some glass door bookcase options include:

• Baxter Glass Door Bookcase – Four adjustable shelves behind each door keeps contents dust-free.
• Village Glass Door Bookcase – Antiqued mirror back panels reflect light beautifully through glass doors.
• Merrick Small Glass Door Bookcase – Hinged glass doors secured with flat metal barn straps.
• Drake Glass Door Bookcase – Powder coated steel frame with six shelves behind Each full length glass door.
• Lexington Glass Door Bookcase – Mirrored back wall inside the glass cabinets provides illusion of depth.
• Carson 60” Glass Door Bookcase – Doors protect shelves while sloped arms and decorative base add style.

Glass door bookcabinets allow you to proudly display prized books, decor items, or dishware while concealing less visually appealing items behind doors. This provides both form and function.

Built-In and Freestanding Bookshelf Options

Restoration Hardware designs their bookshelves in a range of configurations to work either as standalone pieces or integrated into built-in cabinetry and architecture.

Freestanding bookshelves feature finished sides and bases so they can be placed anywhere in a room. However, they can also be incorporated into built-ins by removing the base.

Built-in ready bookshelves have open backs so they can be mounted directly to walls. Some feature adjustments like removable legs or bases to transition from freestanding to built-in.

Keep these options in mind when deciding placement in your home. Built-in shelves become part of the architecture while freestanding shelves can move with you.

Some flexible bookshelf lines include:

• Salvaged Wood Open Bookcase
• Reiner Bookcase
• Drake Glass Door Bookcase
• Heirloom Bookcase
• Farmer’s Door Bookcase

No matter your plans, Restoration Hardware likely offers a bookshelf to suit your needs as a standalone piece or built-in cabinetry.

Bookcase Lighting for Spotlighting Treasures

To beautifully illuminate treasured books, objects or décor on display, several Restoration Hardware bookshelves feature integrated lighting systems. From pedestal lamps to LED strips, their lighting options add both functionality and ambiance.

Some lighted bookshelf designs include:

• Whitstable Lighted Bookcase – Resin coral lamps sit atop for a coastal vibe. Also available with adjustable barn-style lighting.
• Salvaged Wood LED Bookcase – Concealed LED strips cast a soft glow inside the cabinet space.
• Double-Sided LED Bookcase – Lighting emanates from both sides of this visually striking bookcase.
• Oak Standard Bookcase – Electrical outlets in the back panel allow you to plug in your choice of accent lighting.
• Glass Pedestal Double Bookcase – Gorgeous crystal glass lamps provide tailored illumination.

Integrated bookcase lighting saves space while creating atmosphere. LED strips offer adjustable brightness to set the perfect mood.

A Variety of Finish Options for Restoration Hardware Bookshelves

From rich wood stains to brightly painted colors, Restoration Hardware offers a diverse palette of finish options to customize your bookshelf aesthetic.

Popular finish choices include:

• Natural wood stains – Walnut, oak, mahogany and cherry stains bring out natural wood grain.
• Painted colors – Hues like Prussian blue, misty gray and serene blue lend character.
• Distressed paint – Layers of slightly worn paint in coastal blues, timeworn whites and country greens replicate vintage charm.
• Wood finishes – Smokey black oak and ebonized oak add dramatic contrast.
• Metallics – Polished nickel, antique brass and soft gold are refined finishes for metal bookshelves.
• Antiqued mirrors – Mirrored backs and doors provide reflective brilliance.

With endless finish options from boldly colorful to subdued and natural, you can find a Restoration Hardware bookshelf tailored exactly to your personal taste and home’s existing decor.

Finding Bookshelf Deals: Sales and Clearance

Since Restoration Hardware bookshelves are high-ticket items, take advantage of sales and clearance deals to save. Here are some tips for finding discounted bookshelves:

• Check the sale section of the website – Sort by bookshelves to find deals.
• Look for seasonal sales around the holidays and change of seasons when new stock arrives.
• Sign up for email promotions and check for periodic percent-off sales.
• Ask about floor model discounts for display shelves with light wear.
• Call local Design Centers to ask what bookshelves may have clearance pricing due to damage or returns.
• Shop the biannual Restoration Hardware Outlet sales for major discounts on clearance items.
• Partner with a designer who can access the RH Trade Program for trade member sales.
• Time your purchase right before new stock comes in when older inventory needs clearing.

With some persistence and perfect timing, you may be able to score your dream Restoration Hardware bookshelf for hundreds less. Investigate all the angles to find rare but rewarding deals.

Where to Buy Restoration Hardware Bookshelves

Restoration Hardware offers several ways to purchase their luxury bookshelves:

• Online at RestorationHardware.com with shipping directly to your home
• Restoration Hardware Design Galleries – Brick and mortar retail locations to see and purchase in person
• RH Outlet – Outlet locations offer open-box and clearance merchandise at steep discounts
• RH Interior Design – Their in-house designers can source and procure bookshelves for your projects
• Trade Program – If working with an interior designer or architect, they may access trade pricing
• Contract Sales – Furnish commercial spaces through RH Contract
• Call Center – Call customer service to place orders or get assistance

For the full experience, visit an RH Design Gallery where you can browse, feel, and purchase bookshelves in person. Online purchasing allows easy point-and-click shopping directly to your home.

Restoration Hardware Bookshelf Shipping and Delivery

As part of their white glove delivery service, Restoration Hardware offers premium shipping inclusive of delivery, assembly, and installation services.

Delivery Expectations:

• 7-10 Business Days for in-stock core items
• 2-8+ Weeks for customizable or newly launched products
• Threshold Delivery brings items inside your home for you
• Optional delivery date selections available

Assembly and Installation:

• Professional delivery teams assemble and install purchases
• Bookshelves securely fastened to walls (if desired)
• Removal and haul away of packaging debris
• Ability to collect and recycle gently used furniture being replaced

For a truly luxury service experience, Restoration Hardware’s white glove delivery elevates the entire bookshelf shopping process. Your beautifully crafted new bookshelf arrives fully assembled and ready to enjoy.

Creating a Home You Love with Restoration Hardware Bookshelves

From industrial loft chic to cozy cottage charm, Restoration Hardware’s collection of high-quality bookshelves infuses any space with personality and style. Their signature ornate shelving options bring heirloom beauty and architectural detail suited to elegant libraries or welcoming reading nooks. More streamlined modern designs cater to contemporary abodes as well.

No matter your aesthetic, there’s a Restoration Hardware bookshelf waiting to provide the personalized storage and display your book collection deserves. Use this guide to narrow your search by size, style, features and budget.

Keep in mind proper measuring to ensure your new shelf fits the intended space beautifully. Carefully review all of the services and delivery details so you know what to expect at checkout.

Most importantly, choose the bookshelf that makes your heart sing and speaks to your style. With the variety of customization options, you can invest in a Restoration Hardware bookshelf tailored distinctly to your needs and tastes. Let your books take center stage upon the perfect shelf that reflects who you are and enhances how you live.