Target’s “Beautiful” Mid-Century Modern Bookshelf Is Giving Us Major West Elm Vibes — and It’s $180 Cheaper!
As a shopping editor, I spend my days browsing through all of your favorite retailers’ sites to find the most interesting products and best deals, because online shopping can be a real slog, especially when it comes to finding high-quality, budget-friendly furniture. I personally have been on the hunt for a new bookcase to replace my current IKEA one, because the shelves got damaged in a move. I’m still unsure of what my apartment’s aesthetic is, but I love the look of wood shelves — though I don’t love the price associated with them. Plus, I have many books to put on display, so I’ll likely need two.
But luckily, after doing some digging I found a $220 ladder-style bookshelf at Target that looks similar to a $400 version at West Elm, so you can get that mid-century modern look without spending a ton of money.
72" Charlotte Bookshelf - Linon
What is the Linon Charlotte Bookshelf?
The Linon Charlotte Bookshelf at Target is 72 inches tall and contains five shelves of varying depth. The shelves are widest at the bottom — 14.1 inches to be exact — and get progressively skinnier as they get to the top, ending at 4.33 inches deep. Your bigger collectibles or actual books should go near the bottom of the shelf, while little knick-knacks and picture frames should go near the top. Assembly is required, but reviewers say that it’s easy.
West Elm has a similar version that is two inches shorter than the Target bookshelf and is a slightly lighter color wood. It’s currently on sale for $400, so still a relative steal as far as West Elm goes. There are also five shelves, though the shelves at the top are not as narrow as the Target version — the thinnest is 11 inches, so there is a bit more room to display your favorite things.
Mid-Century Bookshelf (70")
What Target Reviewers Are Saying, 4.5 Stars
“I am obsessed with this piece. Really high quality, especially considering the price. I had been considering a MUCH more expensive alternative from West Elm and I’m so glad i tried this first. The stain matches our Acorn West Elm pieces (Mid Century Line) very closely. Highly recommend—plus relatively easy to build and it feels very sturdy!” — Elleb
“The shelf looks really nice, once assembled. I’m very pleased with it. I’m going to buy another one!” — JLG
“Beautiful shelves, looks expensive. Easy assembly.” — Targetrun
From a personal standpoint, I would say that this $220 bookshelf looks like a safe bet. Another reviewer even pointed out that she picked out this bookshelf because it seemed like it was from West Elm. If you’re looking for a high-quality ladder bookshelf, I think this a great bet.
