Bookcase Basics

Wall-mounted or built-in bookshelves are for everyone. Regardless of whether the homeowner is a reader or not, bookshelves are always a favorite item among homeowners. Today we’re going to talk about some of the reasons homeowners want custom build bookcases, shelves, and cabinets.

Storage

Whether the units are bookshelves or a bookcase-and-cabinet combination, bookshelves aren’t always used for books. They may be used for storage of books and other items, to display decorative pieces or a combination of the two. A collaboration of bookshelves and cabinets not only offers a means to display decorative objects but also provides the means to hide less attractive items.

Location

Combination Bookcase and cabinet units, like bookcases, offer seamless floor-to-ceiling construction which can be custom-built for virtually any space in the home. Common areas for bookshelves are odd little unused spaces in the house, a broad expanse of wall in the living room, or the space beneath a set of stairs.

Other useful areas are the wall space around the bed in the bedroom, on either side of a fireplace, or in the dead space above the commode in the bathroom. Regardless of where the bookcase is located, the essential focus should be that the unit functions as a well-placed, integral part of the home design.

Design

Matching the wood and trim design with existing wood elements in the home is the easiest way to make a bookcase blend into the decor. The results will be beautiful and will make the bookcase look as though it was a part of the original home design instead of something which was added later. By matching the bookcase face banding to the existing trim, rather than to personal furniture, a homeowner can quickly recoup his investment in the event he sells the home.

Shelf sizes

Shelf sizes are not required to be of a particular length or width and don’t even need to be the same size. By mixing sizes, the shelves can be customized and offer visual interest and beauty.

Paint or stain?

Again, the existing design elements in the home can offer a choice of painting or stain during the construction of a bookcase. While it isn’t a hard and fast rule, the homeowner can be guided by selecting a style which complements and integrates into the home. Bookcases which extend to the ceiling can be tied into the room with crown molding or even a cove.

Once a homeowner decides a bookcase or bookcase and cabinet combination is in their plans, speaking to an expert on wood and cabinet construction and refinishing is the best way to find out more about options and share ideas about how to make the bookcase into a beautiful and exciting element of the home’s interior structure.

The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.