8 Built-In Bookcases That Maximize Storage with Smart Design

8 Built-In Bookcases That Maximize Storage with Smart Design2SukaRight up at the top of our wishlists withwindow seats, ceiling beams andwalk-in closets, built-in bookcases are a wonderful way to add function and value to your home. Custom configurations can be pricey, but there are also plenty of shortcuts to fake the funk using inexpensive, off-the-shelf cabinetry embellished with moldings and other details. Read on for an inspirational gallery full ofsome of our favorite examples of beautiful built-in bookcases.Couple em’ with Cozy SeatingIf you’re going to go through the trouble of creating a custom bookcase, why not put it right next to a cozy reading nook? Get the lowdown on how to build this window seat flanked by tall bookshelves atSawdust Girl’s website.Check out photographerNick Smith‘s stunning snaps ofRebecca Leivars‘poetic living room design for a London home. The sophisticated built-ins manage to retain an airy feel that keeps the room from looking too stuffy, and the library ladder is the perfect finishing touch!Creative Use of SpaceThe only thing better than a bookcase that’s built-in is one that also conceals ahidden passageway like thisclever creationby Creative Home Engineering. It may look like something from the set of a murder mystery movie, but it’s actually a functional piece that serves a dual purpose.Put an idle corner to good use by filling it with an appropriately shaped book case.Start at Home‘s instructions make it easy to replicate this custom-looking piece in your home.SEE ALSO15 Inspiring Bookcases with GlassDoors for Your HomeWould you ever guess that these gorgeous built-ins were built using inexpensive IKEA bookcases?Centsational Girlcertainly fooled us with her deceptively deft use of components from the ubiquitous Billy line that added up to just $365.Aesthetic and PracticalWhen your home is only 540-sq-ft, you really need to make the most of every inch of space. That’s exactly what designerJessica Helgersondid for this modest home Portland, Oregon. Her living room-spanning bookcase creates tons of storage and display spacethat can be accessed from both sides of the room.Photo byLincoln BarbourA home office is the perfectplace for built-in bookshelves, particularly when they’re paired with built-in desks like in this room makeover byLinda of Home is Where My Heart Is. The new configuration fits a ton of function into the space despite only taking up one wall.The Accent Piecetook advantage of unused space around a pretty French door to create a setof shelves that look like they’ve always been there.Check out their tutorialhere.Which of these built-in bookcases would suit your home the best?Share on FacebookShare on Twitter+Published byYuka YonedainDesign Ideas