8 Ikea Billy Bookcase Alternatives | The Family Handyman

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Home House & Components Fixtures Bookcases The Ikea Billy Bookcase (Plus 8 Alternatives) to Organize Your Space

By Mary Henn

Family Handyman's Editorial Process

Updated on Jan. 14, 2026

Want to order Ikea's famed Billy bookcase? We've got all the details! We also found some quality Billy bookcase alternatives worthy of a spot in your home.

Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.

As a self-described Ikea fanatic, I’ve spent my fair share of afternoons circling the sleek storefront and munching on Swedish meatballs in the cafeteria. The minimalistic Scandinavian-style store is famous for offering DIY storage-friendly furniture that withstands the test of time. Perhaps one of the most notoriously flexible styles is the Billy bookcase, designed by Gillis Lundgren in 1978—and sketched on a napkin, no less.

“The Billy Bookcase has such a classic and versatile design, which is why it has maintained its popularity. Classic, clean lines in multiple sizes, it’s really a great fit for almost any space,” says Melanie Zaelich, owner, home stylist and interior designer at Happy Place Interiors.

Often called the “archetypal Ikea product,” the Billy bookcase features clean lines, a sturdy structure and anywhere between three to 10 or more shelves, depending on preference. Add-ons like a display shelf, doors, inserts and bookends offer further customization options. The best part about the Billy bookcase is that behaves like a chameleon, easily adapting to any space. It’s so popular that oftentimes it’s difficult to find in stock.

Can’t find the famed Ikea Billy bookcase at your local store? Want something different? Either way, there are plenty of Billy bookcase alternatives (or Billy Bookcase dupes, as the kids are saying these days) to keep your house organized and clutter free.

the OG

Ikea Billy Bookcase

Read More Shop on Ikea

best Ikea alternative

Kallax

Read More Shop on Ikea

Best Narrow

Millwood Pines Gracyn Eight-Tier Bookshelf

Read More Shop on Wayfair

best for closets

Aurdal

Read More Shop on Ikea

Best Colorful

Furinno Luder Bookcase

Read More 39.395% OFF$37.59 at Amazon

Best Corner

Loomie Corner Book Shelf

Read More 179.796% OFF$168.79 at Amazon

Best Three-Column

Bowen Triple Tall Bookcase

Read More Shop on Pottery Barn Teen

Best Billy Bookcase Alternative with Doors

Lark Manor Angellique Dining Cabinet

Read More Shop on Wayfair

Best Open-Back

Joss & Main Elin Etagere Bookcase

Read More Shop on Wayfair Show more

the OG

Ikea Billy Bookcase

Shop on Ikea

Pros:

• The original design and storage solution
• Customizable
• Sturdy
• Classic design
• Versatile
• Affordable
• Offered in five colors

Cons:

• Often sells out
• Assembly required

When it comes to DIY built-ins, Ikea’s Billy bookcase is the GOAT. Often called the “archetypal Ikea product,” the Billy bookcase features clean lines, a sturdy structure and anywhere between three to 10 or more shelves, depending on preference. This best selling Billy bookcase, for instance, boasts six shelves. Add-ons like a display shelf, doors, inserts and bookends offer further customization options. The best part about the Billy bookcase is that behaves like a chameleon, easily adapting to any space. It’s so popular that oftentimes it’s difficult to find in stock. That’s why we went ahead and included some of the best Ikea Billy bookcase alternatives for your consideration.

Dimensions: Varies based on model | Weight: Varies based on model | Material: Particle board

best Ikea alternative

Kallax

Shop on Ikea

Pros:

• Lots of configurations
• Variety of inserts and accessories available
• Can be placed vertically or horizontally
• Three color options available
• Affordable

Cons:

• No backing board
• Shelves may be too deep for some

If you’re strolling through Ikea in search of a great Billy bookcase alternative, check out the Kallax shelving system. Like the Billy, the Kallax has clean lines, a sturdy structure and dozens of customization options. This best-selling Kallax shelf unit has eight shelves but you can start with just one or as many as 16. Additionally, the Kallax can be positioned vertically or horizontally. The only thing to consider is that unlike the Billy bookcase, the Kallax does not come with a backing board. At this time, Ikea does not offer a backing board as an accessory for purchase so you’ll either have to make one yourself or get creative with the wall behind your unit. Its shelves are also four inches deeper than the Billy bookcase, which means it may be too deep to use as a bookcase.

“I had three Kallax shelving units in my children’s playroom,” says staff writer Marisa Hillman. “They were perfect for holding boxes of toys and larger play sets, but the shelves were much too deep for books.” Marisa also appreciated how easy it is to clean the Kallax. “My children marked up our Kallax with everything from crayons and markers to stickers and food,” she says. “A few passes with a damp microfiber cloth or, in really messy situations, a magic eraser, did the trick without damaging the shelves.”

Dimensions: Varies based on configuration | Weight: Varies based on configuration | Material: Manufactured wood

Best Narrow

Millwood Pines Gracyn Eight-Tier Bookshelf

Shop on Wayfair

Pros:

• Only 11 inches wide
• Eight shelves
• 32-pound weight capacity per shelf
• Easy to assemble

Cons:

• Requires furniture anchors for stability

The Gracyn bookcase is tall and skinny, measuring 10 inches shorter and 4 inches narrower than the Ikea Billy bookcase. However, these dimensions make it an excellent choice for tight spaces. Looks-wise, it’s almost an exact dupe for the Billy, but it does have two extra shelves to hold more books and knick-knacks.

Dimensions: 71.3 H x 11.7 W x 9.3 D inches | Weight: 30.6 pounds | Material: Manufactured wood

best for closets

Aurdal

Shop on Ikea

Pros:

• Designed specifically for closets
• Multiple configurations
• Four color choices
• Budget-friendly
• Professional assembly available for a fee

Cons:

• Website planning tool can be glitchy
• Wardrobe combinations come in multiple packages

If you’re looking to DIY your walk-in closet on a budget, Ikea’s Aurdal is the way to go. This system, which is especially designed for closets, saving you time and money in Billy bookcase modifications. It features long sleek lines and plenty of customization options. In order to determine the best configuration for your space, Ikea has a handy storage planner. Just be warned that it can be glitchy. Staff writer Marisa Hillman is in the early stages of redoing her bedroom closet and has chosen the Aurdal.

“I’m the kind of person who can’t just imagine what something will look like. I have to actually see it so I’ve spent a ton of time on the Ikea website,” she explains. “Unfortunately, the website glitches every time I try to plan my closet. There’s an app but I don’t love the idea of having to download another app, create another user profile and do everything on my phone. I’ll likely end up taking advantage of Ikea’s complimentary planning consultation once I get some free time.”

Keep in mind that even a small wardrobe combination comes in 20 different packages. If that sounds overwhelming, Ikea offers professional installation of the Aurdal for an additional fee. Pricing depends on the quantity and types of items being assembled and there is a minimum fee of $52.

Dimensions: Varies based on configuration | Weight: Varies based on configuration | Material: Manufactured wood

On Sale

Best Colorful

Furinno Luder Bookcase

39.395% OFF$37.59 at Amazon

Pros:

• Has a pop of color in the interior
• Variety of shelf heights for more flexibility
• Very inexpensive
• Under 32 inches tall

Cons:

• Shelves are not adjustable like the Billy

Another Billy bookcase dupe that’s more compact is this five-cube bookcase. It has both longer shelves and smaller storage cubes, so it’s a handy Billy bookshelf alternative for people with small spaces and apartments. While the exterior is white, the interior offers fun pops of color in green, pink and blue options. And the various shelf sizes will display all your favorite items.

This short unit won’t occupy too much floor space, as it’s less than 20 inches long (basically the width of a small nightstand). Multiple pieces can be placed next to each other for added shelf width or to fill the length of a wall or nook.

Dimensions: 9.4 W x 19.5 H x 31.5 L inches | Weight: 18.7 pounds | Material: Composite wood

On Sale

Best Corner

Loomie Corner Book Shelf

179.796% OFF$168.79 at Amazon

Shop on Walmart

Pros:

• Corner fit ties small rooms together
• Six shelves and three separate columns
• Outer shelf angled out for added interest
• Made from durable commercial-grade laminate
• Each shelf can hold up to 80 pounds

Cons:

• Shelves aren't adjustable

The Loomie corner book shelf rings up around the same price as the corner version of the Billy bookcase. Each fixed shelf of this pretty bookcase houses up to 80 pounds of your must-display books and knick-knacks. We also love that the unique corner design fits various home styles and room layouts. And the outer column angles outward, drawing the eye in for a more cohesive look.

Dimensions: 25.2 D x 34.65 W x 70.87 H inches | Weight: 97 pounds |  Material: MDF

Best Three-Column

Bowen Triple Tall Bookcase

Shop on Pottery Barn Teen

Pros:

• 18 open shelves
• Cord cutouts in the back
• Adjustable levers for stability
• Crafted from solid poplar
• Greenguard Gold certified
• Option for white-glove delivery

Cons:

• Expensive

While it’s certainly a splurge, this three-column bookcase from Pottery Barn is the way to go if you’re looking for top-notch quality. The Bowen bookcase features a modern, open design and a white or charcoal finish.

Crafted from solid poplar, this sturdy bookcase set works well in an office, bedroom or in the living room. Cord cutouts on the back make it easy to add speakers or use it to flank a media console, so it’s ideal for small spaces. Adjustable levelers on the base help with stability on uneven surfaces.

Dimensions: 63 W x 15 D x 56.5 H inches | Weight: 39.5 pounds |  Material: Solid poplar and MDF

Best Billy Bookcase Alternative with Doors

Lark Manor Angellique Dining Cabinet

Shop on Wayfair

Pros:

• Beveled glass doors
• Holds up to 440 pounds
• Comes fully assembled
• Dovetail joints for added stability
• Hardware easy to swap out

Cons:

• Pricey

While not a perfect dupe for the version of the Billy bookcase with doors, the Angellique dining cabinet requires zero assembly—we consider that a good trade-off. The four shelves hold up to 440 pounds of books, China or other decor while also protecting items from dust. Crown molding, shiplap paneling and frame molding on the doors and drawers give it a modern, yet classy, flair. Beveled glass doors let guests peek inside without disturbing the contents. Plus, dovetail joints improve the look and stability of the piece.

Dimensions: 63 W x 15 D x 56.5 H | Weight: 52.5 pounds | Material: Solid poplar and MDF

Best Open-Back

Joss & Main Elin Etagere Bookcase

Shop on Wayfair

$961 at Joss & Main

Shop on Birch Lane

Pros:

• Open-back design offers flexibility
• Pretty gold ring hardware pulls
• Three fixed shelves
• Shelves hold up to 40 pounds each
• Cabinet underneath for additional storage

Cons:

• Pricey

With gold pull-ring accents that add warmth and depth to your space, the Elin bookcase is like a glammed-up Billy. An open-back design adds flexibility to the space, since there’s no need for custom cord cutouts. This opens up the possibility of adding charging stations and other media to the shelves.

Dimensions: 72 H X 32 W X 14 D inches | Weight: 77 pounds | Material: Solid wood and manufactured wood

What to Look for When Buying a Billy Bookcase Alternative

Zaelich recommends having a solid plan for bookcases before bringing them into a room. “Many people will purchase them for ‘storage’ and they can quickly become cluttered,” she says. She offers a few tips and tricks for styling your bookcase—oftentimes a task more complicated than choosing one.

“If using them for true storage, consider putting your things to be stored in nice linen boxes or wicker baskets,” says Zaelich.  “For books, consider color coordinating the books for an organized look. If using them to display personal items, use large items—most people put items that are too small. The ‘tall’ object should be about three-fourths the height of the shelf,” she says.

When it comes to choosing a bookcase, consider the style and function of the room. “An open-back, étagère bookcase can help a space feel lighter, more open, sleek and modern. A solid-back bookcase is fabulous for filling full of books and creating a cozy library feel,” says Zaelich.

Style tip: When using bookcases for books, make sure to pull the books out to the edge, like library shelves. This one little tip will make your bookcase look sophisticated and make the whole room feel more put together.

How We Found the Best Billy Bookcase Alternatives

In our search for the best Billy bookcase alternatives, it’s important that we first understand what makes the Billy bookcase so loved. We first asked an expert interior designer for her perspective on this famed bookcase, and why it’s so popular. Then, we found a range of options that fit this criteria, focusing on including a variety of budgets, variants and sizes. The result? We’re confident that our picks above are the best Billy Bookcase alternatives for every space.

FAQ

How do I paint the Billy Bookcase?

We have a whole guide to painting Ikea furniture, and painting the Billy bookcase uses a similar strategy. Here’s what you need:

• Your bookcase
• One quart of BIN primer
• One quart of cabinet/door/trim enamel
• Water-based polyurethane sealant (optional)

When painting the Billy bookcase, the most important step to remember is sanding the laminate for good adhesion and using the right type of paint.

Can you stack the Billy Bookcase?

It’s possible to stack the Billy bookcase onto another one or other pieces of furniture. Just adhere them together using a strong furniture glue and glue clamps. However, like all modular bookcases, you’ll want to ensure you’re anchoring every piece to the wall using furniture anchors. These ensure stability and prevent bad accidents, especially in homes with kids and pets.

How do I make Billy Bookcase look built-in?

There’s an entire guide we put together to make Ikea furniture look built-in. As with most DIY projects, you need to consider both your space and budget before you dive into this Ikea hack. Save a few bucks by swapping out the Billy bookcase for one of our lost-cost dupes above. The result looks similar to the below TikTok from user @rachmartino:

@rachmartino

Ikea Hack for built in arched bookshelves! I love that we decided to go with an L shaped design it really makes the room feel so special and cozy. We used 6 Havsta cabinets, 6 billy bookshelves 3 shelf version) and 6 billy extensions. What do you think of the final look?

♬ Do You Believe in Magic – The Lovin’ Spoonful

However, this isn’t the only Billy bookcase hack available. “Hacking a Billy bookcase is nearly endless,” says Zaelich, “Painting the back or using a peel-and-stick wallpaper to put on the back is a quick way to add personality to it. Adding simple crown moulding can make it look built in and custom. Painting the entire bookcase and having them wall to wall could make a dramatic library, office or kids’ reading room.”

Why You Should Trust Us

I’m a shopping editor at Family Handyman and a national award-winning writer and journalist. My expertise lies in interior design, home decor, gardening and outdoor trends. My team consulted Melanie Zaelich, owner, home stylist and interior designer at Happy Place Interiors, for her insight on shopping for the best Billy bookcase alternatives. She’s known for her down-to-earth approach and creativity. As the only interior designer with a consult-based, à la carte business model in the Twin Cities, Zaelich is transforming the way people experience interior design. Her work has garnered regional and national design awards. Zaelich is an associate member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), an active member of Women in Construction and a True Color Expert.

Source:

• Melanie Zaelich, owner, home stylist and interior designer at Happy Place Interiors