We’re unapologetic fans of built-ins—when form and function come together, it feels like a design jackpot. Hilary’s project, turning inexpensive Craigslist bookcases into a custom-looking built-in, is a perfect example. It’s a smart way to reuse affordable, pre-made furniture and create a striking architectural element in a living room. Below is Hilary’s account of the project, followed by a few practical tips and styling ideas inspired by her work.
Hilary’s project
Hi John and Sherry — My husband and I moved into our little Cape Cod-style home in New Jersey just over a year ago. In that first busy year we replaced old floors with new wood, and completely renovated the kitchen. Once the major renovations were finished, we turned our attention to smaller, more satisfying projects—like adding storage and display space to the living room with two built-ins.
After months of searching Craigslist, I finally found two solid, all-wood bookcases for just $100. They weren’t pretty at first, but they were sturdy—perfect for a makeover.
The process was straightforward. I removed the outdated trim, sanded the pieces, and primed them for paint. Painting them Benjamin Moore’s White Dove gave the bookcases a fresh, timeless look.
To make the shelves feel built-in rather than freestanding, I painted the wall behind them a deep, dramatic navy (Behr’s December Eve). This contrast makes the white cabinetry pop and gives the whole installation a custom, architectural presence.
Once the bookcases were painted and positioned, we added trim to blend them into the wall and installed crown molding for a finished look. We reattached the doors on the lower sections to give hidden storage, then filled the shelves with books, art, and objects we love. The result is both practical and visually appealing—open display above, concealed storage below.
There are still a few trim details and paint touch-ups to complete, but I couldn’t wait to share the finished look. We’re thrilled with how much function and style we gained from repurposing secondhand bookcases.
I hope you enjoy the transformation as much as we do. — Thanks, Hilary
Why this approach works
Repurposing sturdy, inexpensive bookcases into built-ins is cost-effective and eco-friendly. It saves the time and expense of custom cabinetry while delivering a tailored look. Painting the shelves white against a bold wall color creates depth and a high-contrast focal point. Adding trim and crown molding integrates the pieces with the architecture of the room so they read as permanent built-ins rather than furniture pushed into place.
Quick tips if you want to try this
- Hunt for solid wood bookcases with good structure—these are easier to trim, sand, and paint than particleboard pieces.
- Remove any outdated trim and sand down surfaces before priming to ensure a smooth finish.
- Choose a strong wall color for the background to make white shelving stand out, or paint the bookcase and wall the same color for a more subtle, built-in look.
- Add crown molding and matching trim to visually anchor the units and create a custom appearance.
- Use doors on lower cabinets for hidden storage and open shelving above for display—this balances function and style.
Styling ideas
Mix books with decorative objects, plants, framed photos, and small artwork to create layered interest. Use uniform baskets or boxes in the lower cabinets to keep stored items concealed and organized. Consider varying shelf heights to accommodate a range of objects and to avoid a repetitive look.
Hilary’s built-ins are proof that thoughtful DIY updates can make a major impact. With patience, a few tools, and some paint, you can turn secondhand finds into beautiful, functional built-in shelving that elevates any room.