Have you ever wished to live in a warm home with lots of books? A corner for people to rest their souls. Today, I’d like to share a wonderful story of DIY built-in bookcases that not only changed the look of the home but also brought a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.
Our kitchen renovation plan included a blank wall that used to be a bookshelf. However, it lacked an air of openness and modernity. We decided to build an integrated bookshelf that unfolded around the doorway, from floor to ceiling, ourselves. This project may seem complicated, but there are many surprises and it’s a lot of fun.
The planning is the heart of any project. We measured the space, made sketches, and marked each dimension. We drew our inspiration from Pinterest and other blogs, paying close attention to details like layer spacing, decorative line, paint colors, etc. We even used blue painters tape to simulate different spacing between layers to ensure that each decision was well-thought out.
During construction, we used upper cabinets to provide ample space for books and decor. To solve the problem with insufficient cabinet depth we added 2×4 supports boards which can accommodate larger decorations and books.
We then moved on to the assembly of the bookshelf. We built the bookshelf’s framework step-by-step using MDF boards and pine strip. Each screw and board installation was a challenge and a success. We also designed the middle shelf that spans the doorway using the existing structure to ensure its functionality and stability.
After the main structure was completed, we meticulously finished the bookshelf. To make the bookshelf more professional, 1×2 pine strips covered all unfinished edges. We used wood filler and paintable caulk to cover all nail holes and seams.
After waiting patiently for the paint to dry and harden completely, it was time to decorate the shelves. We used a mixture of books and decor, loosely coded according to color, to make our bookshelf look vibrant and orderly.
This DIY built-in bookcase project not only adds unique charm to our homes, but also makes us appreciate the warmth and accomplishment of home. It’s not just a place for storing things. It’s a space that is full of emotions and stories.
You will notice that this bookshelf is perfectly integrated into the room’s design. It is not just a piece of furniture that can be used for storage but it also has a beautiful artistic display.
