Are you looking to add some sleek, modern storage to your home? The Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf is an excellent option! This stylish shelving unit features two roomy cubes that provide ample space for books, decor, toys, and more.

As someone who recently purchased this shelf for my home office, I wanted to share my full buying guide and review. Below I’ll cover everything you need to know before investing in the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf, from sizing and assembly to style and durability.

Key Specs and Dimensions

First, let’s go over the basic specs for this popular cube shelf.

• Dimensions: 31.5 x 31.5 x 31.5 inches
• Cube sizes: 15.75 x 15.75 x 15.75 inches each
• Weight: 37 pounds
• Material: Engineered wood
• Finish options: White, espresso, gray

With outer dimensions of about 31.5 x 31.5 x 31.5 inches, this shelf has a great compact footprint that can fit in small spaces. Yet the dual 15.75” cubes provide ample storage room inside.

The sleek engineered wood construction gives the shelf a handsome, contemporary look. And you can choose between versatile white, rich espresso, or trendy gray finishes to match your existing decor.

Step-By-Step Assembly

Assembling the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf is a straightforward process. Here are the key steps:

1. Unbox all parts – you’ll find two cube bins, two square side panels, two rectangular top/bottom panels, two back panels, and a hardware pack.
2. Attach the back panel to each cube bin using the included screws and Allen wrench.
3. Stand the cubes upright and slide the side panels into the notches on each cube.
4. Slide the top and bottom panels into place to join the cubes and finish the open cube faces.
5. Screw the top and bottom panels in place using the hardware pack.

With just a Phillips head screwdriver and 10-15 minutes of effort, you can have your new cube shelf fully built. The instructions that come with the shelf are clear and easy to follow too. Just take care not to overtighten the screws to avoid stripping.

Where to Buy for the Best Price

The Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf typically retails around $120 – $150. Here are some of the best places to find it:

• Target – I bought mine at my local Target store. They often have it in stock for convenient pickup.
• Amazon – This shelf is eligible for free Prime shipping and occasionally goes on sale here.
• Overstock – Overstock.com carries the shelf in all colors and offers free returns.
• Wayfair – Frequent sales and coupons make Wayfair a good option for scoring a deal.
• Walmart – Walmart sells the shelf online and in-store, and often has rollback pricing.

The shelf is widely available both online and in retail stores. And prices are very consistent across sellers. I’d recommend watching for periodic sales around holidays to save 15-20%. Signing up for price drop alerts can help catch deals too.

Built from Durable Materials

Sturdy materials give the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf the strength to securely hold your belongings.

• The engineered wood construction provides durability and structural integrity.
• Thick facings and panels ensure the cubes can support weight without bowing or sagging.
• A moisture-resistant finish allows the shelf to hold up in humid environments like basements or bathrooms.
• Metal internal supports and hardware provide reinforced stability.

Customers report the shelf feels very solidly built – not flimsy or cheap. Both cube bins comfortably hold lots of books, baskets, and other items without flexing or showing wear.

Weight Load Capacity

Speaking of holding belongings, what’s the weight capacity for the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf?

The manufacturer does not provide exact specs. But based on my experience, each cube can realistically hold 40-50 pounds.

I have loaded mine up with books, decorative boxes, and office supplies without any issues. Just avoid overload by spreading heavy objects out evenly between the two cubes. And keep weight centered, not teetering on the edges.

Some customers report using the cubes to hold tools, while others store bulkier items like throw blankets. The sturdy build allows for ample storage possibilities. But very heavy objects may risk making the shelf unsteady, so use discretion.

Color Options to Fit Any Decor

A bright white finish gives this cube shelf a clean, contemporary look. The gray option provides a more muted, versatile neutral shade. And the rich espresso finish brings a modern touch of warmth.

No matter your existing decor – playful and colorful, sleek, or rustic – one of these three finishes should coordinate nicely. The colors are also neutral enough to switch up your room style later without clashing.

I chose the crisp white for my home office and love the modern flair it provides. But you really can’t go wrong with any of these versatile hues.

Multi-Purpose Use Ideas

Thanks to its simple yet stylish design, the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf can adapt to nearly any room:

• Living room – Store blankets, board games, media accessories, and decor.
• Bedroom – Hold books, ambient lighting, framed photos, and clothing storage bins.
• Office – Organize office supplies, manuals, tech gadgets and accessories.
• Bathroom – Neatly store folded towels, self-care products, candles, and cleaning supplies.
• Kitchen – Display cookbooks, teas and coffee, barware, or baking pans.
• Kids’ room – Corral toys, arts and crafts, books, stuffed animals.
• Entryway – Stage umbrellas, hats and gloves, keys, or shoes.

The list goes on and on! Wherever you need a little extra storage and display space, this classic cube design can lend both form and function.

Keeping Your Shelf Looking New

To help your Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf retain its good looks:

• Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth or duster.
• Vacuum the cubes occasionally to remove dirt and debris.
• Wipe spills promptly with a soft cloth and mild cleaner to avoid stains.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that may damage the finish.
• Check hardware periodically to ensure screws are gently tightened.

With routine light cleaning, your shelf should maintain its sleek finish for years before needing a refresh. For scratches or other surface damage, a wood marker can help disguise imperfections.

Viable Alternatives to Consider

While I’m very happy with the specific Brightroom version, there are other comparable cube shelf options to explore:

• IKEA Kallax Shelf – Similar style and size cubes at lower price points. More finish choices available.
• Honey Can Do Bamboo Cube Storage Shelves – Warm bamboo material provides natural style.
• Prepac Monterey Cubby Storage Shelves – Features built-in dividers for more organization.
• Nathan James Wooden Storage Organizer – Rustic farmhouse look with higher weight capacity.
• HOMFA Bamboo Storage Cubes – Budget-friendly bamboo cubes ideal for apartments.

IKEA is likely the closest readily available alternative for a similar clean-lined dual cube shelf. But if you prefer a different size, material, or quality level, exploring other brands can pay off.

Using in Bathrooms and Other Damp Spaces

Can you safely use the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf in a bathroom or other high-moisture environment?

The shelf is designed with indoor use in mind, and the moisture-resistant finish does provide some protection. Placing in a bathroom near a tub or shower is not recommended.

However, the shelf can work well in spaces with average humidity levels like powders rooms. Avoid direct prolonged contact with water to prevent possible warping. Proper ventilation is also key.

For bathrooms, be sure to use interior cubes for neatly folded towels and moisture-sealed items. Limit use of wire baskets that may trap condensation. With some care, the simple yet durable build should hold up well to gentle steam and humidity.

Sturdy Construction Built to Last

How long does a Brightroom Cube Shelf typically last before needing to be replaced?

The high-quality engineered wood build gives this shelf excellent durability. Customers report still using their shelves strong 5, 10, even 15 years later.

With proper assembly and care, expect a lifespan of 10+ years under normal household use. Keeping weight limits in mind, avoiding moisture, and periodically tightening hardware can all help maximize durability.

Built with longevity in mind, the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf should provide many years of handsome and handy storage. It makes an investment that won’t need frequent replacing like cheaper particle board options.

Helpful Accessories to Maximize Use

No accessories are included with the basic Brightroom shelf. But adding a few optional extras can help organize the interior cubes:

• Baskets – Woven baskets in various sizes corral clutter neatly.
• Cube inserts – Dividers segment cubes into smaller compartments.
• Storage bins – Plastic bins keep items tidy and can be labeled.
• Drawers – Pull-out fabric drawers conceal mess.
• LED lights – Battery-powered lights show off decor and provide mood lighting.
• Chalkboard labels – Track cube contents with erasable chalk labels.

Browse sites like Amazon, Target, and Container Store for cube accessories that suit your needs. Getting creative with inserts allows you to tailor the generic cubes to your storage style.

Customer Reviews Praise Quality and Value

Across major retailers, the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf earns consistently positive 4+ star reviews. Here’s what customers praise:

• Great quality for the price – Affordable yet doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy.
• Quick and easy assembly – Most can assemble solo in under 30 minutes.
• Sleek, versatile design – Fits any decor and works in many rooms.
• ** Sturdy and durable build** – Holds up well to daily use without damage.
• Lots of storage space – Shelves books, baskets, and more with room to spare.

Critical reviews are very rare. A few customers had minor hardware issues, but seller support quickly resolved. Overall, buyers agree this is an excellent cube shelf for the money.

Maximizing Storage Potential

To really make the most of the abundant 31” cubic footage of storage space, consider these tips:

• Use vertical space – Stack books and baskets to utilize height.
• Try cubbies and containers – Built-in dividers and bins optimize real estate.
• Vary item sizes – Mix smaller and larger items to fill gaps.
• Purge before storing – Only keep essentials to avoid clutter.
• Add shelves or risers – Extra interior shelves double storage.
• Store seasonally – Rotate out cold weather gear to warm weather items.
• Use lids – Lids contain mess and allow stacking.

With smart organization, you can store an impressive amount of stuff inside these deceivingly spacious cubes. Get creative with utilizing all dimensions and decluttering to maximize their potential.

Cost and Value Analysis

With prices ranging from $120-$150, the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf provides excellent value at its price point.

You get strong, long-lasting engineered wood construction. The cubes are large, durable, and handsomely finished. Assembly is fast and simple. And the storage possibilities are nearly endless.

For a similar style shelf, IKEA’s KALLAX version runs $10-20 less. But reviewers note Brightroom’s sturdier build quality and easier assembly are worth the small price premium.

Overall, the shelf’s quality, storage capacity, and versatile aesthetic make it a wise investment. The reasonable price tag makes it affordable enough for most budgets.

Easy to Reposition and Move

Weighing just 37 pounds assembled, the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf is relatively lightweight and easy to move.

The compact rectangular footprint fits through standard doorways. And the shelf can be tilted upright to maneuver through tight spaces.

Redecorating or moving? Just empty the cubes and lift the assembled piece to a new location. Disassembling fully isn’t required for rearranging or transporting.

Of course, having a second person help lift and move the shelf is wise to avoid injury. But the manageable size and weight allow basic repositioning with little hassle.

Mounting Options for Added Safety

While the cube shelf sits stably on the floor with its flat back, wall-mounting provides extra anti-tip security. This is especially helpful in homes with kids or pets prone to climbing furniture.

To mount the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf:

• Use two sturdy wall anchors spaced across the back panel.
• Drill pilot holes and insert anchors per the hardware instructions.
• Line up the shelf’s back panel and use provided screws to attach to anchors.
• For added support, you can drive screws upwards through the top panel into wall studs.

Mounting higher up on walls transforms the shelf into a floating ledge. Or install securely near the floor for a safe play area for toddlers.

While mounting requires some DIY skills, it lends added security and customization.

Stacking Cubes to Double Storage

Are you loving your new Brightroom Shelf and need even more storage capacity? Fortunately, the simple cube design allows seamless stacking.

To stack two Brightroom 2 Cube Shelves:

• Finish assembling each shelf fully before stacking.
• Line up the top of the lower shelf with the bottom of upper shelf.
• Set the upper cube shelf directly centered atop the lower shelf. The flat, even footprint should stack securely.
• For added stability, you can utilize brackets, braces or other hardware. But stacking without is generally secure enough.

The result is a roomy quad cube organizer, measuring about 62” high. You can also stack additional shelves in other configurations – side by side, 2×2, etc.

Stacking requires ensuring the base shelf is positioned on solid, level flooring. But it doubles your storage potential.

How It Compares to Similar Shelves

If considering alternative brands, how does the Brightroom version compare?

VS IKEA KALLAX – Very similar style and size, but Brightroom has thicker panels and stronger overall build. However, Kallax costs less.

VS HONEY CAN DO – Both have clean modern style. Brightroom offers more finish options, but Honey Can Do bamboo material is unique.

VS PREPAC – Brightroom has a more streamlined look. Prepac offers built-in dividers but lower weight capacity.

VS NATHAN JAMES – Nathan James has farmhouse charm and higher weight limit. But Brightroom has easier, faster assembly.

When choosing between comparable shelves, factor in size needs, material and style preferences, assembly time, and budget. The Brightroom Cube Shelf hits a nice sweet spot across considerations for most homeowners.

Helpful Setup and Usage Manual

The Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf comes with an instruction booklet that covers:

• Parts overview – Helpful diagrams of all included shelf components.
• Step-by-step assembly – Walks through putting all pieces together with images.
• Care guidance – Provides tips for cleaning, maintenance, and repair.
• Safety information – Weight limits, anti-tip mounting, child safety notices.
• Warranty details – Explains manufacturer defect coverage.
• Customer service contacts – Phone, email, and website info for support.

While the shelf is simple to assemble without guidance, the manual provides added visual details. Be sure to consult it for care instructions and safety notes too.

Some may misplace the booklet over time. Reach out to the seller or manufacturer directly to request a replacement copy if needed.

The Bottom Line

For its sturdy wood construction, ample cubic storage capacity, and handsomeversatile design, the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf is one of the best shelvingvalues on the market.

It assembles with ease, holds up well to daily use, and works wonderfully in nearly any room. The white, espresso, and gray color options fit a wide range of decors.

While very similar to popular versions from IKEA, the Brightroom shelf offers thicker materials and easier assembly for just a slightly higher price. It’s built to last for years of clutter control.

If you need stylish, functional storage cubes that won’t break the bank, this quality shelf should exceed your expectations. I highly recommend the Brightroom 2 Cube Shelf to anyone looking for an affordable storage solution that doesn’t sacrifice style or durability.