Short answer: Built in shelves around a fireplace are a popular and practical design choice for many homes. These shelves provide additional storage space and can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the room by creating a focal point with the fireplace. Custom-built options are available to fit any size or style preference.
DIY Guide: How to Build Your Own Built-In Shelves Around a Fireplace
Adding built-in shelves around a fireplace is an excellent way to enhance the overall look of your living space. Not only do they provide additional storage for your books, photos, and decorative pieces but also give the centerpiece of your room the attention it deserves.
But, if you’re someone who enjoys undertaking DIY projects or just wants to reduce costs involved in hiring professional contractors, building your own built-in shelves can be a lengthy yet satisfying experience. So, here’s a comprehensive DIY guide that will take you through the process of creating functional and stylish shelving units around your fireplace.
Step 1: Planning
The first step towards constructing built-in shelves is sketching out a final design plan that meets both aesthetic and practical needs—determine what storage items you desire beyond books like art, picture frames or antiques.
Once you’re satisfied with the outline design plan, it’s vital to measure all spaces between every shelf and floor height. This measurement includes piles required for anchoring the brackets or shelving supports.
Step 2: Removal of existing fixtures
Remove any mantelpieces or freestanding units before installing built-in shelves. However, if there are pre-existing elements on either side of your fireplace frame that cannot be removed (e.g., wall lights), ensure these are factored into your design plans as well.
Step 3: Building frames
Building frames depend on how wide shelves stand. Your local hardware store may offer precut wood boards; however, taking measurements yourself gives you full control over size specifications.
So make sure to get sturdy wooden sheets in various thicknesses.
Next comes cutting down lumber slats. Once boards have been cut to size according to construction designs,
sand these down along edges and corners.
Before starting assembling parts together – this could be clamping braces between each end board piece until screwing.
Structural stresses are carefully accounted for during installation when custom building every unit support frame rather than buying pre-manufactured shelving units.
Step 4: Fixing supports
Once your frame is complete, it needs to be secured onto the wall. Use a stud finder to locate a secure place for mounting the bracket that will anchor your shelf support. Attach one or more wood brackets to every framing unit and position where necessary facing upward onto bottom-level plywood.
After achieving adequate stability, these should be screwed tightly into their respective placement areas on a constructed frame positioned in front of your fireplace to complete the overall structure.
Step 5: Installing shelves
Now comes the thrilling part- positioning fitted shelves between wall brackets. For precise sizing concerns as well as aesthetic symmetry, measure across this area while finding various cut methods available online for each shelf customized fit.
Wrap up step 5 by installing trim around boards – attaching borders takes focus from slightly uneven measuring and gives a finished look!
Finally,
DIY projects can often become overwhelming and require patience during installation situations lasting hours on end. But don’t forget the satisfaction you’ll have earned upon completing work that not only looks gorgeous but serves functionally in practical ways.
Always remember safety precautions each time you’re adding hardware, cutting wood or handling construction tools.
We hope this guide helps you build dream shelves as perfect complements to any fireplace setting!
From Design to Reality: Step-by-Step Process for Building Built-In Shelves Around a Fireplace
As an interior designer, one of the most common questions I receive from clients is how to incorporate more storage into their living spaces without sacrificing style. A popular solution is to install built-in shelves around a fireplace. Not only does this add visual interest and functionality to the room, but it also serves as a focal point for the space.
So what exactly goes into building built-in shelves around a fireplace? Let’s walk through the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Designing
Before any construction can begin, it’s important to design your built-ins. Will you want them floor-to-ceiling or just partial height? What type of shelves do you want – wooden or metal? What style or color do you envision?
When designing your built-ins, try to imagine elements like symmetry and proportion. If possible use elements that are already in place in other parts of the room such as mouldings, flooring material or furniture design and materials being used elsewhere. This will help bring cohesiveness across different aspects of the room.
Step 2: Measuring
The next step after determining your design involves measuring the space where your built-ins will go so that it accommodates all size books and decor needs along with ensuring that there adequate clearance on top for ventilation. Remember not only does it look great but also functional utility should be given importance while designing! .
In addition to measuring width and height, also measure depth using masking tape marking outlines before and after measuring.
Step 3: Prepping The Space
Once measurements have been taken and designs have been established, its time to prepare for construction by taping off area surrounding area close to hearth with plastic sheeting potentially boarded up if necessary controlling dust during construction.
Step 4: Building The Frame
The first phase of construction involves building a frame around the firebox out of lumber such as two-by-fours. Done carefully keeping precise level /square measurements when assembling the frame, but making sure the frame doesn’t give an unstable feel to the built-ins.
Take care with anchoring this assembly to wall studs adjacent.
Step 5: Building Shelves
Depending on your design, shelves can be made from wooden sheeting or other materials such as metal. Cut-to-fit all shelves and ensure that they are level.
Step 6: Adding Trim
The next phase involves adding molding around sides and top using some carpentry skills. This is where things start to really take shape because this task of beautification includes covering cut edges of plywood along with helping hide where screws go thus also providing even more depth to appearance.Coating mouldings with paint before installing is recommended instead of painting it after installation as painted wooden surfaces result in interference while attaching fixtures during installation.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
This part helps smooth out last minute details which complete overall look bringing a room together ; Add coat(s) of paint/stain/veneer in accordance with your desired outcome. Consider checking for gaps (especially around edges), sand off rough spots and seal areas needing protection / cushioning surfaces prone to scratches/damage during use like placing glassware or china artifacts.To smarten up storage consider adding baskets, boxes or even panel screens coloring up stylefully!
In conclusion, building built-in shelves around a fireplace requires precision and attention to detail but can transform any living space into something special – offering both practical storage solutions with extra style.When following these above steps,it will turn out to be the cherry atop an already delish sundae.
FAQs About Built-In Shelves Around Fireplaces: Everything You Need to Know
Built-in shelves around fireplaces are a popular and practical feature in many homes. These shelves offer extra storage space while also framing the fireplace and creating an attractive focal point in a room. If you’re considering adding built-in shelves to your home, you likely have some questions about the process and what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions about built-in shelves around fireplaces:
Q: What materials should I use for my built-in shelves?
A: The most common materials for built-in shelves are wood, brick or stone, but there are other options available such as metal or glass. Your choice of material will depend on your personal style and budget.
Q: Can I install the built-in shelves myself?
A: Installing built-in shelving around a fireplace can be complicated and time-consuming. It’s often best to hire a professional contractor who has experience building custom cabinetry and working with fireplace surrounds.
Q: How long does it take to install built-in shelving?
A: This varies depending on the size of your project, but plan on several weeks from start to finish. There will be consultations with your contractor, design planning, demolition (if necessary), custom fabrication of cabinets, installation of lighting fixtures if desired, and final touches like paint or stain.
Q: How do I blend my new shelving seamlessly with my existing decor?
A: When designing your built-ins it’s important that consideration is given to finishes moulding types etc based on how they’ll fit together seamlessly within existing architecture / interior design features.
Additionally; by using color schemes that already exist in your living space it emphasizes unity making everything feel cohesive.
Q: What type of lighting should I use for my shelving?
A suitable option is LED strip light which provides even light coverage throughout the whole shelf providing practical illumination when needed at night time etc as well as accent lighting applied only when desired emphasising particular items or backgrounds behind showcased pieces.
Q: How much storage space will I gain with built-in shelving?
A: By using bespoke cabinets and when installing purposefully designed shelves you can maximise the amount of storage that’s possible. Seek the help of a professional for design recommendations and ultimately determine through consultation exactly how much is feasible within your individual living space.
Built-In Shelves are a great addition to any home as they provide functionality, character (style), and can truly spice up an average fireside evening with family or friends!
Top 5 Facts About Built-In Shelves Around Fireplaces That Will Widen Your Perspective
Built-in shelves around fireplaces have been a popular feature in homes for decades. Not only do they add an aesthetic appeal to a room, but they also provide practical storage for items such as books, decorative pieces, and electronics. If you are considering adding built-in shelves around your fireplace or simply want to expand your knowledge of this feature, then here are the top 5 facts about built-in shelves around fireplaces that will widen your perspective:
1. Customization is key
One of the greatest advantages of built-in shelves is that they can be customized to fit any space and style. The design possibilities are endless – from simple and sleek lines to intricate carvings and moldings. You can choose materials such as wood, stone or metal depending on your preference and budget. With customization options, you will always find the perfect look for your home.
2. Lighting is important
To enhance the overall ambiance of your shelving unit it’s crucial that you incorporate lighting into its design. Proper lighting can help highlight specific features like accent items or art pieces which adds an extra depth to the unit creating a more inviting environment overall.
3. Functionality comes first
Although aesthetics play an important role when designing built-in shelves around fireplaces, functionality should always come first! Maximizing storage space by selecting appropriate shelving sizes helps keep things organized without overcrowding the space visually making it hard on the eyes whilst keeping things easily reachable within arm’s length.
4. Don’t forget about safety
When designing built-in shelves over fireplaces it’s important to ensure proper clearances between combustible materials and heat sources like fires below – ensure enough air flow space available within each shelf cubbyhole so not catching flame furthermore avoiding accidents completely preventing costly damages hence maintaining one’s investment overall.
5. Cost-effective long-term investment
Built-In Shelves Around Fireplaces may be initially expensive but seen in terms of long term investment through their durability and timeless appeal, they are a wise decision. Not only do these units visually elevate your home while offering the practical storage you need to declutter your space, but it also increases the value of your overall property.
In conclusion, Built-In Shelves Around Fireplaces has become an enduring feature in the world of interior design for good reason. The sheer customizability combined with its unique ability to complement both modern and traditional decor making it seen as a long-term investment that yields great benefits both aesthetically and functionally over time. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box—a well thought-out built-in shelf design can complete any space!
Transforming Your Living Room with Custom-Built Cabinets and Shelves: A Complete Guide
When it comes to designing the perfect living room, one of the most important aspects is having adequate storage options. And what better way to achieve this than with custom-built cabinets and shelves? Not only do these additions provide practicality, they also bring a sense of uniqueness and style to your space that can’t be matched by standard store-bought furniture.
So, how exactly do you go about transforming your living room with custom-built cabinets and shelves? Allow us to walk you through the process.
Firstly, consider your needs. What kind of items will you be storing in your new cabinets or on your new shelves? Books, DVDs, electronics? Once you have a clear idea of what needs to be stored away neatly out of sight, you can start considering design options.
One key thing to keep in mind is making use of every inch of space available. Your custom-built furniture should fit seamlessly into the corners and alcoves of your living room. This not only provides additional storage space but also helps make the most out of an odd-shaped area that may have previously been overlooked.
When it comes to actual design options for the cabinet or shelving units themselves, don’t be afraid to get creative! Consider unique shapes such as circular bookcases or angular shelving units that add visual interest while providing practicality.
Materials are another consideration. Wooden cabinets offer a classic look and feel, while metal or glass materials create a modern aesthetic. The material choice may depend on existing decor in the living room or personal preferences regarding color schemes and textures.
Lighting is yet another element that can completely transform custom-built cabinetry and shelving units. Incorporating integrated lighting within shelves or above cabinets adds both practical illumination for reading areas and showcases pieces placed on display by highlighting them against the darkness.
Finally, choosing hardware such as knobs or handles adds subtle touches that make all the difference in completing any fine-tuning touches required. Overall furniture design has the power to make a home look entirely different, depending on how it’s created with the right materials and color combinations which great furniture builders could bring within your budget.
So there you have it – a complete guide to transforming your living room with custom-built cabinets and shelves. By carefully considering your needs, space design, materials, lighting, and hardware, you can create a unique and functional storage solution that elevates the look of any living space.
Light Up Your Home and Style with the Perfectly Installed Built-In Shelves Around a Fireplace
When it comes to home decor, there’s no denying that built-in shelves are making a comeback. They’re the perfect way to incorporate both function and style into any space, and when they’re installed around a fireplace, they can take your interior design to the next level.
Not only do built-in shelves provide ample storage space for books, accessories, and decorative items, but they also serve as a focal point in your living room or family room. And when you add a fireplace into the mix, you have a winning combination that exudes warmth and comfort.
Here are some of the ways that you can amp up the style in your home with built-in shelves around your fireplace:
1. Choose high-quality materials
When it comes to designing built-in shelves around a fireplace, it’s important to choose materials that are of exceptional quality. Consider investing in high-grade hardwoods such as maple or cherry for durability and visual appeal.
2. Optimize shelf spacing
One of the benefits of installing built-in shelves is that you can customize them according to your unique needs. Take advantage of this opportunity by optimizing shelf spacing based on what you want to display on them.
3. Add lighting
Another way to enhance the visual appeal of your built-in shelves is by incorporating lighting fixtures. Recessed lights are an excellent choice because they provide ample light without being too obtrusive.
4. Showcase artwork
Built-in shelves offer an ideal opportunity for showcasing art pieces or photographs along with other decorative items such as vases or sculptures.
5. Experiment with color schemes
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional color schemes when designing your built-ins! Incorporating different shades of wood finishings or pairing navy blue shelving units against an ivory wall can create an unexpected yet visually arresting accent piece for any space.
In conclusion…
Whether you’re looking to add depth and character to your living room or just need more functional storage space around your fireplace, customized built-in shelves are an excellent home decor solution. By choosing high-quality materials, optimizing shelf spacing, incorporating lighting fixtures, showcasing art pieces, and experimenting with color schemes, you can create a stunning visual display that is both functional and stylish. So why not inject some warmth and comfort into your home today? Light up your space with perfectly installed built-in shelves and elevate the style of any room in no time!
Table with useful data:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Materials | Wood, MDF or metal |
| Cost | $200-$2000+ |
| Installation time | 1-2 days |
| Size options | Customizable to fit space |
| Design options | Shaker, traditional, modern, rustic |
| Functionality | Storage for books, decor, media, etc. |
| Maintenance | Regular dusting and occasional polishing or painting |
Information from an expert: Built-in shelves around a fireplace is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. These shelves provide ample space for storage and display of decor items while adding a touch of sophistication to the room. When designing built-in shelves, it is important to consider the style of the fireplace and surrounding decor, as well as ensuring proper measurements are taken for an optimal fit. Installing lighting within the shelving can enhance its functionality and overall appeal. Trusting a professional to design and install your built-in shelves ensures that they will be structurally sound and add long-term value to your home.
Historical fact:
Built in shelves around fireplaces became popular in the late 19th century as homes began to shift away from wood stoves and towards more efficient heating sources such as coal and gas. This allowed for decorative features, such as shelves, to be added without interfering with the functionality of the fireplace.
