There is little doubt that wood has been the primary material for making furniture for centuries, and various woods are still very popular today. That applies to simple shelving; wooden shelving is still commonly seen in many, if not most, homes around the world, including North America and Europe.

The last half century, though, has seen some strong competition, coming from the introduction of modern metals and plastics in the production of furniture, such as tables, chairs and cabinets. The same is true of storage racks and shelving use. Whether DVD storage racks, corner shelves, garage shelving and organizers, or garden tool racks, these modern competitors to wood have made an impact. In fact, in some situations they provide the best storage solutions.

Even if you do not like the appearance of metal compared to wood, you can probably find good use for some metal shelving and racks. If it is good quality and easy to maintain, then there are some places in the home where you may be won over.

The kitchen is one room where stainless steel and chrome plated metals are carving out a niche, and it is not just on countertops and in kitchen chairs and tables. Kitchen racks under counter tops are often made from metals that are very easy to maintain and wipe clean. That is good from a hygiene point of view, as well as convenience. Sliding shelves and pull out racks, for storage under kitchen work surfaces, will even suit those who do not like the appearance of metal in their wood dominated kitchens. There is no reason why a wooden door kitchen unit should not make use of modern metal racking and shelving “behind the scenes”.

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Chrome shelving is also quite useful and attractive in a bathroom, but it is outside the garage where modern metal racking systems can be most effectively used. Even somebody who avidly sticks to wooden furniture may not be averse to using high quality metal racks outside in the garage, where appearance to visitors will not matter so much.

Overhead garage storage systems are one of the great space savers, and the well designed modern systems invariably rely on metal. Given how much storage space you can create with a well designed overhead racking system, you may even find that most of your interior clutter problems can be resolved by its use. Also, in the garden shed, the best garden tool racks are made from metal rather than wood.

However much of a fan of wood you are, never forget that more modern alternatives can be found and used to good effect around the home.