5. Painted Ladder Shelving Units

For those who want the look of shelving without having to drill multiple holes in their wall, a leaning ladder shelf is a clever alternative. These units are often taller and provide multiple tiers of storage in a very compact footprint. To make this look “aesthetic,” paint the ladder the exact same color as your bedroom walls. This makes the unit look like it is built into the room rather than just leaning against it. This design is highly practical, as it allows you to rotate your decor frequently without needing a tool kit.

How to Make

Buy a simple wooden ladder shelf unit. Before assembly, lightly sand the surface and apply two coats of high-quality paint that matches your bedroom wall color. Allow it to dry completely for 24 hours. Lean the unit securely against your wall, ensuring the feet are on a non-slip rug or have rubber pads to prevent sliding. On each tier, dedicate a theme: one for books, one for a collection of small plants, and one for a basket containing extra linens. This approach keeps the visual flow organized while utilizing the full height of your wall.

Things Needed

  • Wooden ladder shelf unit
  • Primer and wall-matching paint
  • Sandpaper
  • Paint brushes or foam rollers
  • Storage baskets
  • Assorted indoor plants