Curved Wooden Six Tier Shelving vs 78.7" Tall Narrow Bookshelf

These solve different problems. The 90-inch curved unit is a wide, open, sculptural piece with solid wood shelves on an iron frame; it suits a living room or open-plan space where it is meant to be seen. The 78.7-inch narrow shelf is a space-saving vertical tower in particle board and metal, with a back baffle, anti-tip strap and 40 lb per shelf; it suits small rooms, offices and rentals. Buyers of the tall narrow type consistently praise how much storage fits in a tiny footprint, while owners of open curved units warn that open backs show clutter and cables.

• Choose the 90-inch curved wooden shelving if you have floor space to spare and want a statement piece for books, plants and decor in a living room or hallway.
• Choose the 78.7-inch narrow bookshelf if you are short on floor space and need tall, tidy storage in a small room, office or rental.