They Turned An Antique Wood Ladder Into A Rustic Bookshelf That Saves Floor Space

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If you have too many books, it can become quite tricky to maximize storage space, especially in small places. Sure, you could always buy another bookshelf, but that takes up floor space, and a really attractive one isn't always budget-friendly. If you find yourself in this position, you need a creative way to store books that actually enhances your home decor. That means finding solutions in unexpected places, like an antique wood ladder.

TikTok users Bronte & Bean of BBbookbites bought an antique ladder online. They flipped it on its side, mounted it above a living room passageway, and turned it into clever book storage that doesn't take up a single inch of floor space. It also adds some rustic character to the space by unexpectedly repurposing an old piece. It takes a bit of planning and knowing how to mount the ladder, but once you do, you can load it up with small volumes, creating a fun visual with your favorite books and sparing some of them from the giveaway bin.

Once you have your ladder, It's important to securely attach it to the wall. That begins with the right hardware and locating the studs behind the drywall using a stud finder. Do this by measuring the ladder and consider using a handy tool like a picture-hanging kit with an integrated bubble leveler and measuring apparatus so your piece is perfectly aligned. Since the ladder will hang from the hardware, it's a good idea to also measure down from the ceiling to make sure you're satisfied with the ladder's clearance above and below.

Once you've mapped and marked, it's time to mount. The best hardware to use is heavy-duty brackets with finishes that fit your decor or simply blend in. These bronze steel heavy-duty shelf brackets hold up to 300 pounds per pair and have a nice finish that coordinates well with a dark wood ladder. If you want a simple L-shaped bracket, these black L steel shelf brackets are streamlined but attractive and hold up to 325 pounds per pair. It's recommended that you use two brackets for every 24" of ladder length. As you're choosing bracket length, the top of the bracket shouldn't extend more than 3" past the edge of your ladder.

Use a leveler vertically to mark where your brackets will go, then pre-drill pilot holes into the wall and studs and bolt the brackets to the studs with ¼" lag screws that are 2-½" – 3" long. Now, hang your ladder and start loading in the books. There are so many clever ways to repurpose a vintage ladder, and while this one is ideal for books, once it's on the wall, you can really get creative.

There are some essential components to styling decor on a bookshelf that you can use for your new ladder-shelf. Admittedly, the ladder has less space than a standard shelf, but there's still room to get creative. Consider adding elements with different heights: candle holders (unlit) or electric pillar and votive candles; plants or small floral arrangements add texture and visual interest. Pops of color, metallic accents, items made of natural materials like small baskets, shells, stones, or a collection of colorful glass (secured with museum putty) can really add to the variety, especially when interspersed amongst the books. Small framed photos of loved ones or pets can also add a personal touch. Just keep your editing skills handy, so the assemblage looks polished and curated rather than haphazard.

Not to be neglected are the possibilities beyond the ladder's frame: weave some fairy lights in and amongst the books and decorative accents to add a bit of whimsy. Each season, change what you hang from the piece: garlands of greenery, paper hearts, or fall leaves; hang Christmas ornaments in the winter and Easter eggs or paper flowers in the spring. And don't forget the backdrop behind your ladder; it doesn't need to be a plain wall. Slip pretty paper or wallpaper remnants behind the rung sections for a background that changes with your mood. What begins with a fun vintage find for storing books can truly transform into a rotating display of beloved finds and seasonal charm.