A few months ago, I met a couple—Anne and Robert—who had just downsized into a charming mid-century home. Cozy living room, warm hardwood floors, a fireplace begging to be used. But something was missing.
“We’ve got boxes of books,” Anne told me. “Some of them are first editions. Others just… feel like old friends.”
“And no good place to put them,” Robert added. “We’ve tried shelves. They never feel right.”
I smiled. “You need a custom library & bookcases—designed just for you, your books, and the life that happens around them.”
They had questions. You probably do, too. So let’s answer them—story-style.
❓Why custom? Can’t I just buy shelves?
Sure, you can. But if you’ve ever tried lining up four different bookcases along a wall and hoping they look intentional—you already know the answer.
Anne and Robert had a window they didn’t want to cover. A corner with odd angles. And books of all sizes, from tiny paperbacks to oversized art volumes.
Custom means:
- Built-in shelving that wraps around existing architecture
- Adjustable heights for different book sizes
- Integrated lighting, cabinetry, and trim that match your home
- Zero gaps, zero wobble, zero stress
This isn’t just about storing books. It’s about designing a feature that adds value and character to your space.
❓How much space do I really need?
Less than you think.
Anne and Robert had one full wall and a narrow corner. We created a wraparound solution that framed their fireplace, added a rolling ladder (yes, they insisted—and I approved), and used vertical space they hadn’t considered usable.
Whether you have a spare bedroom or a single living room wall, a custom library & bookcases design can work with your layout—not fight against it.
❓What if I’m not just storing books?
You’re not alone. Most people want to display:
- Framed photos
- Heirlooms and ceramics
- Plants and artwork
- Records, board games, or even hidden storage
Robert was a history professor and had an impressive collection of antique maps. So we added glass-front display cabinets with interior lighting—like a museum, but cozy.
❓Do built-ins add resale value?
Yes. And not just because they look beautiful.
Buyers recognize the permanence and purpose behind built-ins. They turn blank walls into architectural features. They make small spaces feel grand. And when done well, they reflect craftsmanship that lasts.
Anne and Robert aren’t thinking about selling anytime soon—but if they do, that wall of books will be remembered.
Final Word from Bob Vila
A custom library & bookcases installation isn’t just for the book lover. It’s for the memory-keeper. The story-sharer. The collector of things that matter.
It adds warmth, identity, and a little old-world charm in a world that moves fast. It’s a space to slow down. Reflect. Read. And remember.
