Bokskap

Bokskap is a piece of furniture intended for storing and displaying books. The Swedish term combines bok (book) and skap (cabinet); in English it corresponds to bookcase or book cabinet. A bokskap is usually freestanding, but can be built into walls or integrated into larger storage systems. Typical configurations include adjustable shelves behind doors, sometimes with glass panels, or open shelves for quick access. Some models have locks or built-in lighting; others are purely functional storage.

Materials range from solid wood such as oak or pine to plywood, laminates, and metal in contemporary designs. Shelves are commonly adjustable to accommodate books of different heights. Finishes vary from natural wood stains to painted surfaces or veneers. Dimensions vary widely, from compact wall-mounted units to tall freestanding cabinets, with widths commonly around 60–120 cm and depths around 25–40 cm.

Variants include open-shelved bookcases, glass-door cabinets for display, and modular systems that can be extended with additional units. Bokskap serve both practical storage and decorative purposes in homes, offices, and libraries, and are used in styles from traditional to minimalist.

Historically, book storage evolved with the rise of personal libraries in Europe, moving from simple shelves to purpose-built cabinets. In Nordic and Scandinavian design, bokskap often emphasize clean lines, natural materials, and functional simplicity.