David Flatley is a big fan of DVDS. He began collecting before streaming services were available. Once streaming services became most people’s go-to, Flatley continued collecting to ensure he’d always have accessto his favorite DVDs, even if the streaming service dropped the film. Today, his collection contains over 2,000 movies, spanning across all genres.
As DVDs can get heavy, Flatley was looking for a substantial shelving system to house his collection. He was searching for something spacious and well made, that made is collection feel intentional. When he discovered Modern Shelving, Flatley liked what he saw. Here, Flatley shares why he decided to go with Modern Shelving, his experience working with the design team, and how his shelves are the perfect platform for displaying his collection.
What were you in the market for when you were first looking for shelves?
We were looking for something that felt substantial and classic — basically shelves that looked more like real furniture than cheap media storage. We also needed it to blend in and not necessarily be the focal point. I wanted enough space for DVDs plus some display items that belong in our film collection. So, the goal wasn’t just “storage.” It was a piece that made the collection look intentional.
Why did Modern Shelving feel like a good fit for you?
I discovered Modern Shelving while I was deep in the rabbit hole looking for shelves that didn’t feel cheap or purely “media storage.” I kept running into the same overly modern, flimsy-looking options. I wanted something that felt more like real furniture.
Modern Shelving stood out because their pieces looked clean and intentional, but still warm and substantial. The proportions were right, the finishes looked higher-end, and it felt like the kind of shelving that could hold a serious DVD collection and still look like part of a thoughtfully designed room — not just storage. It seemed like a good fit because it matched what I wanted overall: classic, curated, and built to last, without being overly ornate or trendy.
What was your experience like working with the design team to order your shelves?
Working with the design team was honestly one of the best parts of the whole process — it felt much more like ordering a piece of furniture than buying “shelving.” They were really helpful about walking through dimensions, layout, and what would actually work for the space. I had a pretty clear idea of the look I wanted, but they helped refine the details, so it felt intentional and balanced rather than just to “fill the wall.”
I ended up going with custom rather than stock. Stock would have worked in theory, but I wanted the proportions to be perfect for my room and for the DVDs, and I didn’t want any awkward gaps or wasted space. The custom route just made it feel more tailored, more finished, and more like a long-term piece I’d keep.
Did you do the install yourself or hire someone?
I hired someone to do the install. We’re pretty handy, but this felt like one of those projects where I wanted it done perfectly and securely, especially since the shelves were going to be holding a lot of weight.
It went really smoothly. The installer took the time to get everything level, anchored properly, and aligned so it looked clean and built in. Once it was up, it instantly made the room feel more finished — like it wasn’t just storage anymore, it was part of the design. And honestly, I was glad I didn’t try to muscle through it myself — it would’ve been one of those “I can do this” projects that turns into a three day ordeal.
Where in your home are these shelves?
They’re in the basement, which ended up being the perfect spot since it gives me the space to keep the whole collection together without it taking over the main living areas.
I don’t store anything else on them. The shelves are strictly DVDs, which I actually like because it keeps everything clean, organized, and easy to browse. Once we get a few more shelving units, we can start putting other items on them.
How do the shelves complete your basement?
They really complete the basement by making it feel purposeful instead of just “extra space.” Before the shelves, the DVDs were more like stuff I owned. With the shelving in place, the collection feels organized, permanent, and curated, like the basement has a purpose now.
They enhance the space because they add structure and order. They make the basement feel more like a media/movie zone, and they give the room a finished, built-out look, even if nothing else changed. Basically, the shelves turn the basement into a place where the collection belongs, not just where it’s stored.
Are you happy with your shelves?
Yes, I’m really happy with them. They’ve held up great, they look clean and substantial, and they make the whole DVD collection feel organized instead of cluttered. The fit and finish also feels higher end than most shelving options that have always been around, especially from the 90’s and early 2000’s.
The biggest reason I’m happy with them is that they do exactly what I wanted: They make the basement feel finished and pulled together, while keeping the entire collection easy to browse and access.
Has anyone commented on your shelves?
Yes, people definitely have. Most of the comments are some version of, “Wow, you have a lot of DVDs.” “This looks so organized.”
And a few people have specifically noticed that the shelves look custom and built-in, even though they’re not trying to be flashy. It usually turns into a fun conversation, especially when someone spots a title they love.
David Flatley’s DVD collection now has a home that feels just as intentional as the films themselves. Working with designer Ezra, David was able to create a shelving system that supports the weight, scale, and organization his collection deserves while elevating the look of his basement. If you’re ready to create shelving tailored to your own collection or space, schedule a consultation with Ezra and start designing your perfect setup today.
