Modernizing built-in bookshelves or shelving units can be a great way to transform a room. If you have existing built-in bookcases, it’s worth considering modernizing them to bring a fresh look to your home.
One great way to modernize a built-in bookcase is to paint it a modern color like navy blue or charcoal gray. You can also use different colors on each shelf to give it a unique, modern look. If you don’t want to paint the entire unit, you can simply paint the inside of the shelves to give a subtle pop of color.
Another way to modernize a built-in bookcase is to update the handles. Replacing the existing handles with more modern shapes can instantly make any bookcase look more polished and contemporary. You can also play around with different finishes and metallics such as brushed nickel or matte black for an extra touch of sophistication.
Finally, think about adding lighting to the built-in bookcases. Installing spotlights, a single light fixture, or under-shelf lighting can add a touch of drama and modernize the built-in bookcase even more.
Likewise, adding glass doors can also update and elevate your built-in bookcase.
Modernizing a built-in bookcase is a great way to give your home a fresh look. Whether it’s simply painting the entire unit or updating the handles and adding lighting, there are lots of ways to incorporate modern touches and instantly transform the room.
Are bookcases out of style?
No, bookcases are not out of style. In fact, they are enjoying a surge of popularity in recent years! The rise of minimalism and the organization of clutter is one factor contributing to this. Many people now recognize that having a display space for books and other items can add another level of pleasure to reading, tidying up, and enjoying a room’s decor.
Homes are increasingly being fitted with custom-made bookcases to fit the needs of the family. Additionally, the popularity of book clubs and the ease of online audiobooks has only increased the demand for bookcases.
Bookcases are even being used to display artwork and other knick knacks to add an extra bit of flair to any room. So, if anything, bookcases are becoming more stylish.
Are built ins good for resale?
Yes, built-ins can be good for resale. Built-ins add value to a house, as it improves its functionality and aesthetics. Built-ins can make a home look more spacious and organized. Custom-built cabinets, for example, can provide more storage space and more flexible use of the home than pre-built units.
Built-in appliances, such as dishwashers, ovens, sinks and stoves, can also add convenience to day-to-day life. By adding these features to the house, you can increase its overall value and get a higher resale price.
Additionally, the fact that they are built-ins may pique potential buyers’ interest, as it suggests effort and thought went into the design. Ultimately, built-ins are a great way to invest in your home and increase its resale value.
Do built-ins save space?
Yes, built-ins can save space in a home. Built-ins can provide storage, seating, and decorational options that don’t take up much floor space and can also help to maximize floor space. Built-in shelving or cabinetry can drastically reduce the need for furniture pieces that aren’t being used regularly.
Seating and tables that can be folded away can free up valuable floor space. Decorative trimwork and millwork can help to accentuate a room without taking up too much of the floor. Even appliances like stoves, microwaves, and dishwashers can now be built into a wall or kitchen counter to conserve space.
Can built in cabinets be moved?
Yes, built in cabinets can be moved, however it’s not necessarily an easy task. Depending on the type of cabinetry and the construction materials used for the cabinets, there may be different steps required for moving them safely and successfully.
If the cabinets are constructed from lightweight materials, such as particleboard, then they may be able to be disassembled and reassembled at the new location with relative ease. However, if the cabinets are made from heavier materials such as plywood or hardwood, then disassembling and reassembling them may be more difficult.
Additionally, some of the hardware or accessories used to secure the cabinets to the walls may need to be moved or removed in order to safely move them. It is important to consider all of these factors before attempting to move built in cabinets.
If the task is too daunting, it is always best to consult with a professional who specializes in such matters.
Can you move built in furniture?
Yes, it is possible to move built in furniture. Depending on the type of furniture, you may be able to disconnect the pieces and carry them out in sections. For example, you can unscrew the cabinets from the wall and bring them out that way.
If the furniture is more integrated into the walls, such as a built-in wardrobe, then you may have to carefully deconstruct it and remove it in sections. Moving built in furniture can be a time consuming process and you may need to enlist the help of multiple people.
Additionally, it is important to measure the furniture and the doorway to ensure that it will fit through the entryway.
How do you remove bookshelves from a wall?
Removing bookshelves from a wall requires a few supplies, such as a utility knife, pocket knife, cordless drill, drill bits, Philips head screwdriver, and wall anchors. Begin by removing any items from the bookshelf.
Vacuum any dust collected on the shelves. Use the utility knife to cut away any caulk along the outer edge of the bookshelf that is adhered to the wall. Use the pocket knife to pry away any decorative trim.
Use the cordless drill and drill bits to remove any screws anchoring the bookshelf to wall anchors. Finally, use the Philips head screwdriver to unscrew any remaining screws. Carefully move the bookshelf away from the wall and discard it.
How close can a bookcase be to a fireplace?
Although there is no specific distance required, it is best to leave at least two feet of clearance between a bookcase and a fireplace. Keeping books and other items at least two feet away from the fireplace can help to reduce the risk of them catching fire from the flames or from any sparks that might fly out of the fireplace.
Additionally, leaving some space between the bookcase and the fireplace can increase the longevity of the furniture. When close to the fire, the heat can cause warping and cracking of wooden bookcases.
To ensure that your bookcase and fireplace are a safe distance apart, monitor the temperature of the bookcase to make sure it doesn’t get too hot.
How far away does furniture need to be from a fireplace?
Furniture should generally be kept at least 3 feet away from a fireplace to ensure safety and avoid potential damage or fire hazard. Keeping furniture away also allows room for a hearth or protective barrier that can help to block sparks and heat.
If you’re using a wood-burning fireplace, consider using a screen to protect the furniture and flooring, and create a barrier between the furniture and the fireplace. Gas fireplaces don’t typically throw off sparks, but the heat produced can be damaging, so it’s best to keep furniture at least the suggested 3 feet away.
How deep should shelves next to fireplace be?
The depth of shelves next to a fireplace will depend on a few factors such as the size of the space and the items that will be stored, but generally speaking, shelves should be no less than 12 inches deep.
This will provide enough room to store items such as books and decorations securely. However, if the space is larger, shelves may need to be deeper in order to accommodate larger items. Additionally, the depth of the shelf may need to be adjusted depending on the location of the fireplace relative to the walls, as well as the height of the ceiling, which will affect how much depth is needed.
Ultimately, the depth of shelves next to the fireplace should be determined on a case-by-case basis, as there are a number of considerations that must be taken into account.
What do you put on either side of fireplace?
On either side of a fireplace, you can put a variety of decorative items to suit your style. Shelving is a popular option that allows you to display collections, books, and photographs. You could also install sconces or wall lamps to create a comfortable, ambient lighting.
Console tables work well if you need extra storage or counter space. Or, you could simply hang a large piece of art on one side, and hang a mirror on the other side to create a stunning look. If your fireplace is in a larger living area, you can flank it with chairs, a loveseat, or even a small seating area.
And if the space allows, you might consider placing a piece of furniture such as a chest or armoire on either side.
How do you stage a bookcase like a pro?
Staging a bookcase like a pro starts with deciding what items will be featured in the display. The primary focus should be those items that help to create the desired aesthetic of the space. For example, if you are trying to achieve a rustic or boho feel, you should use items like wooden trinkets, plants, stones and earthy tones throughout your display.
Once you have chosen the items, it is important to create balance in the display. You should think of the display like a painting or photograph, with a foreground and background, and perhaps a focus in the center.
Start with the largest items first and use those as anchors then fill in the display with smaller items around them. Consider the color palette and how purposely mixing the items can create depth and dimension in the display.
Pay special attention to the placement of objects and accessories, using a combination of levels, heights and depth. Move the items around and stand back to look at the overall display; step away to get a full perspective.
Adjust as necessary until it looks balanced. Finally, add character with non-traditional accessories such as artwork and sculptures; it will add texture and interest to the display while helping to showcase the items.
Follow these steps and your bookcase will be staged like a pro.
How do you build a fireplace shelf?
Building a fireplace shelf is a relatively straightforward process that requires basic carpentry skills. First, you will need to measure the length and width of the shelf you want to build. You should also measure the length and width of the fireplace itself so you know how wide the shelf needs to be to cover the area above the fireplace.
Then, you will need to buy the lumber or other material you intend to use for the shelf and cut it to the desired size.
Next, it is time to install the shelf onto the wall. You will need to measure, level, and cut out a spot for the shelf on the wall where it will fit perfectly. To secure the shelf in place, use L brackets or heavy-duty screws and wall anchors to secure the shelf to the wall.
Once the shelf is securely attached to the wall, you may want to sand and paint or stain the shelf. This will give your shelf the finished look you desire. When the shelf is completely finished, let it dry thoroughly before putting anything on it.
Following these steps will ensure that you are able to successfully build a fireplace shelf that looks great and is sturdy enough to hold anything you plan to put on it.
How do you build built in shelves with an electric fireplace?
Building built-in shelves with an electric fireplace requires a few steps, including measuring and cutting the size of the shelf, attaching the shelf to the wall, and attaching the fireplace to the shelf.
First, take careful measurements of the wall where the fireplace will be located, and measure accordingly for the built-in shelf. Make sure to take into consideration the size of the electric fireplace, as the built-in shelf should be somewhat larger and shallower than the fireplace itself.
You may need another set of measurements for any additional shelves or storage you’re planning to include. Once you have your measurements you can cut the length of the shelf to fit the wall.
Then, attach the shelf securely to the wall. This may involve screwing the shelf into studs in the wall, or using wall anchors if there are no studs present. Make sure the shelf is level when attaching.
Finally, attach the electric fireplace to the shelf. This may involve screwing the electric fireplace and shelf together, or it may involve using brackets or other hardware depending on the electric fireplace model.
Once the electric fireplace is secure, you’re ready to install it. You may need to consult the installation manual or contact the manufacturer for specific instructions.
With built-in shelves and an electric fireplace, your wall will be transformed into a cozy, functional space. Have fun styling it with books, plants, accessories, and other items!