Are you wondering what you’re looking at?
It’s bookshelves built between the wall studs.
My hubby made these to
store my paperback book collections, which were layered two deep in my office shelves. They now adorn the ‘library’
section of our basement family room.
Wall studs are the perfect depth for holding 4-inch wide
mass market paperbacks. My husband installed an adjustable shelving system on the
sides of the studs by dadoing a recess so the metal shelving system was even
with the wooden studs. Then he cut the shelves to fit, nailed trim around the
openings, painted and stained the surrounding wood and ... instant bookshelves!
Well, maybe not instant, but certainly a clever storage method.
If you don’t have any bare studs in your house you can still
create these fantastic book cubbies by removing a section of drywall and
installing the shelving systems between the studs. The shelves can also be
attached to the stud using L brackets. You'll lose a couple of inches in
storage, but won't have to mess with dadoing. Find your studs with a studfinder
tool, make sure the space you've chosen is hollow, and be careful when you cut
the drywall to insure you don’t hit any hidden wiring or pipes. Adding trim
around the opening makes for a neater looking opening.
We've had these bookshelves in several of the homes we've
lived in. They're handy for books and other small items you want to display.
Put a door on the surface and you've got some covered storage. We happen to
like our book cubbies open; it's easier to read the titles and adds color to
the wall. Not only are they handy, but they make a great conversation piece
when your guests visit. But watch out ... with all your books visible you may
become their favorite lending library!
What clever ideas do you have to create book storage in your
home or office?
