DIY Builds
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Are built-in shelves worth it?

Built-in bookshelves and other units provide added storage and display space, plus additional design elements to any room in your house. They often solve unused space issues (think under the stairs, a wide hallway, or in a closet) and maximize the functionality of a home's square footage.

christopherscottcabinetry.com - The Many Benefits of Built-In Bookshelves
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But your built-in bookshelves do have to be well-designed and well-made, too, in order to increase the value of your home. Cramming a built-in where it doesn’t have adequate space, or using inexpensive materials or inexperienced designers and builders will result in a product that won’t benefit you or any future homeowner.

Are Built-Ins Expensive?

The exact cost of built-ins is difficult to estimate due to the many types of built-ins, as well as the variety of materials, designs, and the professionals used to complete the job. There is also the option to DIY your own built-in bookshelves that can shave some of the cost since you’ll only need to pay for materials if you have the proper tools and equipment to design, build, and install the built-ins yourself. Style and size of your built-in bookshelves will also be a factor in how expensive the project becomes. Elaborate designs, costly finishes, and detailed finish work—along with proportionate sizing—can all increase the cost of your built-ins. That said, the cost is definitely balanced by the benefits of the end product, when done correctly and well. Built-in bookshelves are a great way to add style and storage to any home, and I don’t know anyone who has regretted the addition of built-ins in their home based on their initial expense, whether done by a professional or as a DIY project.

DIY vs Professional Built-In Bookshelves

When it comes to adding built-in bookshelves to your home’s interior design, there are two ways to go: DIY or professional. If you’re the handy type, you may be tempted to tackle the project on your own, but before you pick up a hammer, there are several things to ask yourself. Chances are that—unless you’re an exceptionally experienced carpenter—you’re going to really appreciate the quality and look of a professional’s work on your bookshelves more than if you manage to complete the project on your own. Here are a few things to consider if you’re trying to decide whether to tackle DIY built-in bookshelves or opt for professionally designed and installed ones. First, think about the budget you have available for the built-in bookshelves. If you’re ready to spend more money in order to save time and effort, you should opt for hiring a professional to design and install your bookshelves. There is little doubt that you will thoroughly enjoy the benefits of professionally designed and crafted bookshelves for years to come. On the other hand, if your budget is tighter, but you’re highly capable and have the time, going the DIY route is probably for you.

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Another thing to consider is your DIY skill level and capacity. Some may think that because they’ve tackled smaller, less involved projects, DIY bookshelves will be easy to design and build. But well-built and beautifully-finished shelving, drawers, and cabinet doors are more than most DIYers are ready for. Most will also lack the necessary tools and space to get the job done well, leaving them with subpar results that will not only be aesthetically disappointing, but lack a substantial return on investment. One more question to ask yourself when deciding whether or not to hire a professional is the time and effort you’re willing to invest in the project. Even the most ambitious DIYers tend to underestimate the level of involvement a project as big as DIY bookshelves will require. So ask yourself: Is building bookshelves where you want to invest your time and effort? If so, and your skill level matches the design you’re going for, you’re probably a fine candidate for creating your own built-in bookshelves.

How Deep Should Built-In Bookshelves Be?

christopherscottcabinetry.com - The Many Benefits of Built-In Bookshelves
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