The Container Store Elfa shelving system is known for its modularity and enduring appeal. While many people install theirs in the closet, I used individual brackets and shelving to create a floating shelving system for my books. I measured the wall space I wanted to hang the shelves on and selected the parts that fit the dimensions I needed—though the options are vast. The system was super easy to install and can hold my entire book collection over the top of my bed. (There are probably more than 200 pounds hanging in the white space over my head, which is scary, but the system is strong!)
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Delivery and Setup
What was the delivery process like?
The shelving parts arrived in separate boxes to my house. There was a slated delivery that was set up on my behalf; I did get a notification that my order was placed, but I didn’t get tracking updates throughout. That being said, the shelf arrived after one week in really good condition!
What was the setup like, and how long did it take end to end?
Though the shelves had installation instructions, I ended up getting a Taskrabbit to hang them for me—just because they were meant to hold a lot of weight, and I didn’t want my books to collapse on me in the middle of the night. I bought strong anchors to sturdily support the entire framework, and the Taskrabbit installed the whole thing in around 30 minutes without much difficulty.
My Experience
What do you store in your shelf, and do you think it feels sturdy enough to support what you have displayed there?
Yes! As outlined above, I have probably 100-plus books on there. They’ve been there for a few months, and I’ve never felt concerned about their support.
How durable does the shelving system seem against wear and tear?
Very durable. I think I’ll be able to disassemble the shelves and reinstall them in the next place I move.
How stylish is the shelf, and can you describe what you think it looks like set up? What kinds of decor styles would it suit?
Clean, sleek, and very minimal. I got the white colorway, but there are a range of different finishes (matte, zinc-plated) and colors (gray, black) to match your home.
Does it seem worth it for the price/well-made in general?
It’s expensive, but I think it’s a good investment! As I mentioned earlier, it’s durable, reusable, and the modularity means you can continue to add and remove what you want from the system depending on the space where you choose to install it.
Ratings
Style: A
Delivery and Assembly: A-
Value: A
Sturdiness: A+
Overall rating: A
Additional Storage Solutions
The Elfa modular systems, which come in many forms and sizes, can help streamline just about any organization woes, from containing pantry clutter to preventing pileup in the garage. Closet systems are perhaps their most well-loved offering—even celebrity stylist Brad Goreski cosigned the system for his home closet.
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