naco's secret to living

5 Smart Ways to Use a Modular Bookcase

Modular furniture has become a popular choice recently in modern homes — and for good reason. As life gains more complexity and the ability to have access to more 'stuff', with shifting needs and growing collections of books, art, and objects, furniture that adapts to you is no longer a luxury. It’s a necessity.

We designed the Orimba Bookcase to meet that need — a modular, reconfigurable shelving system built with intention and warmth. But how you use it? That’s up to you.

Here are five smart, beautiful ways to integrate modular shelving like the Orimba into your space — no matter where (or how) you live.

Let's get excited about your new space & more importantly your new bookcase that enhances your needs!

1. Entryway Storage Without the Clutter

The entrance to your home sets the tone — but it’s often overlooked. Instead of bulky shoe cabinets or catch-all tables, a modular bookcase can anchor the space while staying light and open.

Think: a single low unit with space for keys, a few baskets, and your go-to books or accessories. Style with a tray, a plant, maybe a scent diffuser — and you’ve got form and function, all in one.

If you need an exact fit like the image above we can do that, just give us a call or pop into our showroom! Or alternatively book a free consultation

2. Divide (and Style) an Open-Plan Room

Melbourne homes are increasingly open-plan — great for light, not always great for zoning. So here's a suggestion, lets try the modular bookcase as room divider.

With its open-back structure, the Orimba lets light pass through while still creating clear spatial separation. Whether you're splitting a lounge from a dining area or tucking a study corner into your living room, this is one of our favourite (and most underrated) layout tricks.

3. Studio Flat? Make Your Walls Work Harder

In smaller apartments and rentals, vertical storage is your best friend. Mount a tall modular unit on a clean white wall and let it do the heavy lifting — books, tech, artwork, even kitchen overflow if needed.

The Orimba’s beauty lies in its adjustability. Start small, and as your space (or budget) grows, so can the system.

We actually have a few orimba bookcases next to our beds ourselves and they work perfeclty for clothes you want to wear the next day, alarm clocks and inspirational 'stuff' you love seeing in the mornings!

4. Display Without Over-Styling

Let’s be honest — shelf styling is an art. But too often, it leans into clutter or feels overly curated.

We like to keep it simple: mix vertical and horizontal stacks of books, add one or two ceramic pieces, a framed photo, and something organic (like a trailing plant or sculptural branch). The modular nature of the Orimba makes it easy to create zones and visual breathing space — which means your shelves can evolve naturally, rather than trying to look perfect all the time.

5. Future-Proof Your Furniture

We’ve always believed that furniture should grow with you. Your needs will shift — more books, less clutter, a new home office, a toddler. Static furniture makes that hard.

Modular systems like the Orimba are the opposite of disposable design. You can reconfigure it, add to it, move it from room to room. It’s built for the long run — which makes it not just more sustainable, but a smarter investment, too.

So, What Does This Look Like in Real Life?

While every Orimba is made with the same quiet, considered design DNA, no two end up looking the same. That’s the point.

We’ve seen it styled in art studios, small family homes, inner-city flats, and converted warehouse spaces across Melbourne. It’s versatile by nature, but always timeless in feel.

📦 Want to learn more about the Orimba Bookcase?

See the full Orimba range here →

Designed and built in Melbourne. Ready to ship. Loved in real homes.

Naco Design Hub

512 Bridge Road
Richmond, VIC 3121

richmond@nacodesign.com
03 9421 3883

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Sat – Sun : 11:00am – 4.30pm

Please note we are closed on all public holidays, public holiday weekends.