Bookshelving

[Edward]

So, I am planning to redecorate the lounge in my flat, the main element of which will be to cover as much as possible of two of the walls in bookshelving (One wall also having, ideally, doored-areas to hide, among other things, a yet-to-be purchased big, flatscreen TV so that it's not the centrepiece of the room when it is not in use). I would love something with a vintage, or at least traditional, "library in a big house" type vibe. Using antique pieces isn't really an option: I need to maximise storage space. The utilitarian answer is, of course, to go flatpack modular. I have some sold wood Ikea furniture that I love, but none of the modular stuff grabs me.... The block I live in was opened in 51 or 52, so would be ideal for something a bit more traditional looking. Interested to know what other Loungers have done in my position. I'm considering having something custom built, if I can find it affordably - any ideas? For what it may be worth, I own the place (or rather the bank does - and my soul), and have no plans to move elsewhere, so I wouldn't mind spending a reasonable amount. I reckon I could do the room entirely via Ikea modular options for about a grand sterling - I'd rather spend GBP1500, though, and be happy with the look....


For overall vibe of what I'm after, think Dita's library:

 

[Justin B]

I'm doing something similar in my house and am building it myself. Shelving is pretty simple to do, but of course that depends on having a workspace to do it yourself.

 

[LizzieMaine]

I had my brother in law build me some very simple shelving units out of 3/4" pine planks, which can be easily assembled or disassembled as needed. I finished them in white enamel to match my woodwork, and fitted one into my living room by placing it as a sort of room divider between my living room and the stairs, creating a hallway effect and allowing me to load books library-stacks style from both sides of the shelving.

These units have the advantage of portablity, but being made of solid wood rather than particle board they're much more durable. Mine are finished very plainly, but it would be easy enough to spiff up the front of each shelf with moldings and stain and varnish them to create an agreeably-vintage effect.

 

[Edward]

I might well end up going the DIY route, depending on price.... Yours look great, Lizzie. Good idea the way you've used them as a 'divider' too. Thanks, folks.

 

[rue]

Lizzie already has the best idea, so I don't have anything to add, but I hope you share pictures when you're finished