Custom Bookcases
Custom Raised Panel Bookcase
Adding custom bookcases to a room can be part of the original room construction finish carpentry plan or done later as a remodel or add on. Not only do custom bookcases look great and add a focal point to a room they can also optimize your space.
Custom Bookcase Design
Many folks come up with their bookcase ideas from pictures in magazines, websites or they see it at someone’s home. Once the idea is born it is best to make a drawing to picture how the new bookcase will fit and look in the room.
When designing your custom bookcases you want to be sure that your project will meet both your functional needs as well as your stylistic requirements, looking to fulfill that perfect look, feel and function for your home.
Bookcase Function
Ask yourself how you plan to use your new bookcases.
- Is it for a home office and require file or media storage?
- Will you be storing electronic devices or displaying a t.v?
- Will it be for books only or a combination or books and photos or artifacts?
- Do you need enclosed cabinet storage?
Bookcase Style
Many times people want the bookcase to look as if it was “always there.” To do this you need to look at and incorporate the style and trim details currently in the home or make the room fit the bookcase by adding style and trim / crown molding to it.
Many times the decision to utilize raised panels in cabinet doors or bookcase raised, side panels comes from the desire to match existing door raised panels or wainscoting in the home.
Bookcase Layout
In addition to location of your custom bookcases you will want to determine the number and width of shelves. Here are some details to consider:
- Number of shelves
- Width of shelves
- Depth of shelves
- How many bookcases can fit
- Height of bookcases
- Location of cabinets, drawers, file storage
- Window seats
- Wiring and audio considerations
- Will you need to recess radiators in the floor?
Bookcase Details
This is where you consider the details that create your bookcase style. Considerations should be given to creating new or matching existing trim moldings, column styles, crown molding, shelf nosing size/ style, door styles, carvings, lighting, and hardware.