Originally from San Diego, Brian Applegate grew up with an appreciation of modern and mid-century modern design and architecture. During a stint in Los Angelos, he met the post-punk new-wave band, Devo, and spent some time touring with the group. Applegate also wrote songs for his own bands, Reload and The Punk Group, and has over 400 song writing credits to his name.
Naturally, during his time on the road, Brian learned a lot about music, but he also developed his own stylistic taste for home design. Being able to tour other cities, states, and countries, he was able study their designs, which ultimately helped him discover the look he wanted for his own space. Today, Brian resides in Seattle and when he was in the market for shelving, an Instagram ad for Modern Shelving caught his eye. And the rest, as they say is history.
What were you in the market for when you were first looking for shelving?
I was looking for something that wasn’t your ordinary shelving system and one that was going to last for years in any setting or configuration in my space, wherever that may be.
What did you like about the brand/shelves?
I like that they can be customized. I can place the modules together as one big unit, or break them apart and use them in different areas, which I've done for my latest configuration.
Did you order custom or stock shelves?
I went with the custom shelves and cabinets that would compliment my existing furniture. The ModShelf Floor to Ceiling Room Divider Shelving with Cabinets in Black/Tea for Two is what I went with.
How did the design process go?
It was fairly simple. I emailed the design team the dimensions of my room and they were able to send me specs pretty quickly, which was exactly what I had in mind.
Did you assemble the shelves yourself?
I was able to assemble the shelves myself after a little bit of head scratching, but once I figured it out it wasn’t complicated at all.
Where in your home are your shelves?
I have them set up in three different locations in my living room, which somehow gave the room more space to work with. I collect records, music ephemera, oddball gadgets, and art, ranging from low to high-brow with everything in between. These shelves are perfect to display my sometimes questionable and often times expensive interests.
Are you happy with your shelves?
I am definitely happy with my purchase. I like the versatility, design, sleek look, clean lines, and colors that I chose and how they provide clear visibility from any angle. They’re perfect for my taste!
What do you think sets Modern Shelving’s shelves apart from other shelving units?
The minimalist, sharp-angle design that looks both modern and slightly retro. They’re sturdy and built to last, which I can’t tell you how many shelves and cabinets I've discarded over the years because they were cheap and/or ugly.
Have any friends/family seen your shelves yet?
Oh yeah! It’s fun to watch the look on friend's faces when they come over for the first time. They seem to walk in slow-motion with their mouths open and can only say, “wow!”. That’s the part I like.
Anything else?
I just want to say ‘thank you’ for including me on here and for making a quality product that I’ll have for many years. The best part is that if I need more, I know I’ll come back.
Brian’s shelves are more than storage — they’re part of his story. Ezra from the Modern Shelving® design team played a key role in making that possible. By listening to Brian’s needs and providing expert guidance, Ezra helped transform a vision into reality. The final design is sleek, adaptable, and built to last. It reflects Brian’s personality while elevating the look of his home. Begin your own transformation by scheduling a design review with Ezra today!
