Built-In Bookcase Ideas Inspired by Designer Homes

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Bookcases bring so much charm to a room. I love how they instantly create the feeling of a cozy library. This year we had plans to install built-in cabinets and bookcases in our dining room and living room. I was thrilled at the thought of finally adding built-ins, something I’d been dreaming about since we moved in.

Then life happened and our plans were delayed. So instead of built-ins for now, I decided to get creative and make the most of what we already had.

A couple of weeks ago, while tidying around the house, an idea struck me. I recruited the family and we hauled a large freestanding wooden bookcase upstairs. We’d brought it with us when we moved, hoping it would find a home here someday; in the meantime it sat in the garage. With our newly arranged living room I realized the perfect spot had opened up for it.

Once it was in place, my husband painted the bookcase the same color as our walls and trim. A fresh coat of Benjamin Moore Simply White made it blend seamlessly into the space and gave it that built-in look. The transformation made the room feel more finished and cozy—I absolutely love it.

Now that the paint has fully cured, I’ll be photographing the finished bookcase to share later this week—stay tuned.

Do you have built-in bookcases in your home?

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House and Home
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Erica M McDowell
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Photography by Lucas Allen for McGrath II
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Mark D Sikes / Medium
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House and Home / Meredith Heron (same as top photo)
Vision for the Dining Room Built-Ins {My New House}
Emily A. Clark
Vision for the Dining Room Built-Ins {My New House}
Blair Harris / Cobble Hill Townhouse
Vision for the Dining Room Built-Ins {My New House}
BHG

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