Sofa shelving: the trick your living room needs
5.1.2026
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Have you ever thought about all that unused space around your sofa? You can turn those corners into storage space if you use them cleverly. This is where shelving comes into play.
I was sceptical at first: a shelf around the couch instead of on the wall? The image was giving me office or storeroom vibes. But then I gave it a try with the Ferm Living Plant Boxes and I’m sold. I’m amazed at how versatile they are. They’re not only great for storing books, but also perfect for showcasing lamps, candles or glasses. Especially in the evenings, when the lights are low, the corner with the behind-the-sofa shelving looks really cosy and inviting.
Source: Pia Seidel
I came across the idea in an interior design magazine, where I spotted a bookshelf placed right next to a sofa. It turned an inconspicuous corner into a real eye-catcher. So if you’re looking for a sophisticated storage solution, I can truly recommend this option.
Why sofa shelves are a good idea
Shelves that hug your seating area keep things tidy because everything has its place. What also makes them practical is that they provide additional storage space right where you need it. There are countless designs out there, so you’re bound to find a model that works with your style – from minimalist to extravagant.
Three tips to find your perfect sofa shelving
- Purpose: If you like reading, for example, you should go for open shelving with several compartments for books and magazines. Baskets or boxes are a great way to neatly store small items such as remote controls or charging cables. For plant lovers, there are models with built-in planter boxes – perfect for a little greenery in the living room.
Source: Pretty
- Height: Shelving that’s the height of your sofa is ideal if you’re looking for an alternative to a classic coffee table. You can place drinks, snacks or decorations on it without having to bend down. Taller edge shelves, on the other hand, can be used as room dividers and add structure to your living room.
- Position: If you want to place your sofa in the middle of the room, you can use a shelf behind it to create a kind of back wall that also provides storage space. This works well in large rooms you want to structure. For smaller rooms, it’s often better to place the seating furniture close to the wall and place a narrower console behind it, as this takes up less space.
If you move the couch away from the wall, the room can be cleverly demarcated. A shelf behind it serves as an organisation system for books, decorations or plants. What’s more, it also creates visual separation without cluttering the room.
Source: La Redoute
Source: La Redoute
This model works particularly well in open-plan living concepts. Leaving a small space between the sofa and the wall can also make the room appear larger and gives you more flexibility. In this case, shelves with several compartments are ideal.
Header image: Pia Seidel
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
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