
Solomon Major is one of Modern Shelving’s oldest customers. Major purchased his original set of shelves twenty years ago, back when Modern Shelving was ISS Designs. Since his first purchase, Major has moved numerous times, packing up his shelves and reinstalling them after each relocation. Along the way, Major has purchased additional units to add to his growing Modern Shelving collection. Here, Major shares what first attracted him to Modern Shelving, challenges he’s faced during installation, and what he loves about the modular design.
What do you do for work?
I am trained as a political scientist and work in the consulting industry. I published my first book on the intersection of artificial intelligence and philosophy last year and am currently working on a quantitative methods handbook for measuring the impact and efficacy of security cooperation projects and programs.

What inspired you to purchase your first Modern Shelving system?
I was working as a visiting assistant (political science) professor at Clemson University. Since I knew I'd only be at Clemson for one year, I wanted something modular that could be moved around and grow (or shrink) with me as I moved from one house to another, which I have done over the last two+ decades. The [Modern Shelving] system had lots of component options, looked good, and was reasonably priced, so it fit the bill.
You've had your original system for several years now. How has it held up over time?
All the metal parts have held up very well over a considerable time. I still have many (if not all) of the original metal parts. To be honest, the wood cabinet units have not held up as well. I have bought several of those over the years, but none have made it to my current house. When I move again, I plan to get some new cabinets, but will probably get a carpenter friend to make them for me out of hardwood. Also, their lack of handles makes them very difficult to operate –
I had to buy my own hardware, but that never worked as well as something that was built to purpose would have).

What made you decide to purchase a second Modern Shelving system?
Almost every time I move, I buy a few more pieces so I can customize the system to my new space. Again, the flexibility is excellent. This time, I had to buy a particularly large number of new parts because I lent a section of my system that I was not using to a now-ex girlfriend. When we separated, I unfortunately lost at least half my shelves.

Before installing Modern Shelving, what storage or organization challenges were you trying to solve?
I'm mostly interested in book storage. But I also have a number of art objects that I like to display as well. I was able to use a "collapsible" TV mount to hang a very large (85-inch) TV from the wall but extend it out past the shelves. I think that worked out well.
How have the shelving systems improved the way you live, work, or enjoy your home?
Once assembled, the system has done great work at storing and displaying my books and art. I feel that the system's natural grid pattern provides a welcome mid-century modern order to the space. This is particularly nice in my current situation, where I have two, four-bay units in adjacent rooms. The grid really brings these two spaces together in a visually appealing way.

What would you tell someone who is considering Modern Shelving for their own space?
- This system can and will grow with you. It is good for homes, but I think especially good for people who rent/move a lot but still want something functional and aesthetically pleasing. 2. Be very careful to plan your space beforehand – although the system's flexibility does allow you to make adjustments afterward. 3. Seriously consider a professional installer.
For more than 20 years, Solomon Major has relied on Modern Shelving® through multiple moves, changing homes, and evolving storage needs. His experience shows that a well-designed modular shelving system can adapt and grow with you, no matter where life takes you. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, Modern Shelving® is built to be disassembled, moved, and reconfigured for your next space. If you're looking for a storage solution that combines flexibility, durability, and timeless design, Modern Shelving® may be the perfect fit. Ready to create a custom system for your home? Book a free design consultation with one of our designers today!
























































































