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World's Greatest

THE GREATESTBookcase

OUR SELECTION · 2026

IKEA Billy bookcase
Photo: Magnus Bäck / Wikimedia Commons, public domain

THE ONE WE CHOSE

IKEA Billy

IKEA

The bookcase that fills the world's apartments.

A bookcase designed by Gillis Lundgren and introduced by IKEA in 1979. Its adjustable shelves and simple frame have barely changed.

DESIGN · LONGEVITY · REPUTATION

Why it won

  1. I

    Introduced in 1979.

  2. II

    Adjustable shelves fit books of any height.

  3. III

    Simple enough to assemble in an hour.

  4. IV

    Available in many sizes and finishes.

SWIPE →

FINAL

The verdict

Fine bookcases cost a fortune. This one has held more books than any of them.

THE DETAILS

DESIGNER
Gillis Lundgren
INTRODUCED
1979
SHELVES
Adjustable

BUY THE GREATEST

[ Buy it · Amazon ][ See it · IKEA ]

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Our selection, not a measurement. Selected October 4, 2026. Last reviewed October 4, 2026. How we choose. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links.

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