Wow. This bookshelf is so classy I had to bring out only my finest books to place on it (think the Ron Chernov authored Hamilton, Erik Larsen's books, an old copy of The Great Gatsby). It is totally a show-off shelf that I put in my living room to intimidate guests with my literary knowledge. It is perfect for a mix of books and knick knacks. I feel like you could put a pile of carefully arranged garbage on it and people would be impressed. The build was extremely quick and easy and it has a mount at the top that goes into the wall to prevent any tipping, which I appreciate as a person with super soft carpet.