Definition: Built-in shelving is a type of shelving that is installed directly into the walls of a room, rather than being freestanding. It’s a great way to add storage and style to any room.
Example: A built-in shelving living room might have shelves that are built into the wall behind the sofa, or shelves that flank the fireplace. This type of shelving can be used to display books, photos, and other decorative items.
Importance/Benefits:
Space-saving: Built-in shelving is a space-saving solution for small rooms. It can be installed in unused corners or alcoves, making the most of available space.
Customizable: Built-in shelving can be customized to fit any space and style. Shelves can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and glass, and can be painted or stained to match the dcor.
Adds value to your home: Built-in shelving is a permanent fixture that can add value to your home. It’s a great way to improve the functionality and style of any room.
Historical context:
Built-in shelving has been used for centuries. In the Middle Ages, it was common to find built-in shelves in churches and monasteries. These shelves were used to store books and other religious artifacts.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, built-in shelving became popular in homes. It was often used in living rooms, libraries, and dining rooms. Today, built-in shelving is still a popular choice for homes of all styles.
Main article topics:
Types of built-in shelving
How to choose the right built-in shelving for your home
How to install built-in shelving
* Tips for styling built-in shelving
1. Functionality
When it comes to built-in shelving for your living room, functionality is key. What will you be using the shelves for? Books, dcor, electronics? The weight and size of the items you’ll be storing will determine the materials and design of your shelves.
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Facet 1: Materials
The materials you choose for your shelves will depend on the weight of the items you’ll be storing. For heavy items like books, you’ll need a sturdy material like wood or metal. For lighter items like dcor or electronics, you could use a less durable material like glass or plastic.
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Facet 2: Design
The design of your shelves will also be influenced by the items you’ll be storing. For example, if you’re storing books, you’ll need shelves that are wide enough to accommodate the books. If you’re storing dcor, you could choose shelves with a more decorative design.
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Facet 3: Weight capacity
Be sure to consider the weight capacity of your shelves before you start storing items on them. Overloading your shelves could cause them to collapse, which could damage your belongings.
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Facet 4: Size
The size of your shelves will depend on the amount of storage space you need. Measure the available space in your living room before you start designing your shelves.
By considering the functionality of your built-in shelving, you can choose the right materials, design, weight capacity, and size to meet your specific needs.
2. Style
The style of your built-in shelving should complement the overall style of your living room. This means choosing a design that matches the existing furniture and dcor. However, you can also use shelves to add a touch of personality to your space. For example, if your living room has a traditional style, you could choose built-in shelves with a classic design. If your living room has a more modern style, you could choose shelves with a more contemporary design.
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Facet 1: Design
The design of your built-in shelves will have a big impact on the overall look of your living room. There are many different design options to choose from, so you can find shelves that match your existing furniture and dcor. You can also find shelves that add a touch of personality to your space.
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Facet 2: Materials
The materials used to make your built-in shelves will also affect the overall look of your living room. You can choose from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Each material has its own unique look and feel, so you can choose the one that best matches your existing furniture and dcor.
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Facet 3: Color
The color of your built-in shelves is another important consideration. You can choose from a wide variety of colors, so you can find shelves that match your existing furniture and dcor. You can also find shelves that add a touch of color to your space.
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Facet 4: Size
The size of your built-in shelves will depend on the amount of storage space you need. You can choose from a variety of sizes, so you can find shelves that fit your space perfectly.
By considering the style of your built-in shelving, you can choose shelves that complement the overall look of your living room. You can also use shelves to add a touch of personality to your space.
3. Space
When it comes to built-in shelving for your living room, space is a key consideration. You need to make sure that the shelves will fit in the space you have available, and that they will be the right size for your needs.
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Facet 1: Dimensions
The first step is to measure the available space carefully. This includes measuring the height, width, and depth of the space, as well as the space between any existing furniture or fixtures.
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Facet 2: Shelf size
Once you know the dimensions of the available space, you can start to design your shelves. The size of the shelves will depend on the items you’ll be storing on them. For example, if you’re storing books, you’ll need shelves that are wide enough to accommodate the books. If you’re storing dcor, you could choose shelves with a more decorative design.
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Facet 3: Space between shelves
The space between the shelves is also important. You need to make sure that there is enough space between the shelves to easily access the items you’re storing. You also need to make sure that the shelves are not too close together, as this can make the space feel cluttered.
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Facet 4: Traffic flow
Finally, you need to consider the traffic flow in your living room. You don’t want to place the shelves in a way that will block the flow of traffic. You also need to make sure that the shelves are not too close to any seating areas, as this can make it difficult to get in and out of the chairs or sofas.
By considering the space available in your living room, you can design built-in shelves that fit perfectly and meet your specific needs.
4. Installation
Built-in shelves are a great way to add extra storage and style to your living room. However, they can be difficult to install, especially if you’re not experienced in DIY projects. If you’re not comfortable installing the shelves yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job.
There are a few things to consider when choosing a professional to install your built-in shelves. First, make sure that the professional is experienced in installing built-in shelves. Second, get a few quotes from different professionals before making a decision. Finally, be sure to ask the professional about their warranty and insurance.
If you’re handy and have some experience with DIY projects, you may be able to install the built-in shelves yourself. However, it’s important to note that installing built-in shelves can be a challenging project. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to hire a professional.
5. Here are a few tips for installing built-in shelves yourself
- Make sure that you have the right tools and materials.
- Follow the instructions carefully.
- Be patient and take your time.
- If you’re not sure about something, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
6. By following these tips, you can successfully install built-in shelves in your living room.
Conclusion
Built-in shelving is a versatile and stylish way to add storage and display space to your living room. By considering the key aspects of functionality, style, space, and installation, you can create a custom shelving solution that meets your specific needs.
Built-in shelves can provide a number of benefits for your living room, including:
- Increased storage space
- Improved organization
- Enhanced style and dcor
- Increased home value
If you’re considering adding built-in shelving to your living room, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Functionality: What will you be using the shelves for? Books, dcor, electronics? Consider the weight and size of the items you’ll be storing when choosing the materials and design of your shelves.
- Style: Built-in shelves should complement the style of your living room. Choose a design that matches the existing furniture and dcor. You can also use shelves to add a touch of personality to your space.
- Space: Measure the available space carefully before you start designing your shelves. You’ll need to consider the height, width, and depth of the shelves, as well as the space between them.
- Installation: Built-in shelves can be installed by a professional or DIYer. If you’re not comfortable installing the shelves yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job.
With careful planning and execution, built-in shelving can be a great way to improve the functionality, style, and value of your living room.
