Fireside Bookcases
Fireplaces lend an unbeatable warmth to a room. When the fireplace is flanked by a pair of bookcases, the feelings of warmth and comfort are even greater.
There are several considerations when thinking about adding fireside bookcases. First, define the function of the room: fireplaces most commonly are found in family rooms, kitchens, studies, offices and bedrooms. The kind of bookcases that would work best in a family room likely would be too casual to complement the decor of an office.
It is important to add a pair of bookcases, rather than one. The symmetry created by a pair is restful to the eye and gives the room a sense of harmony, whereas adding a single fireside bookcase would look unbalanced. A pair of tower bookcases or a corner bookcase is often a great choice.
Once the purpose of the room is clear, the next step is to take stock of what the bookcases will hold. In a study, the primary purpose would be to house books; in a family room, bookcases could provide needed storage for games, photographs and collections. Determining what the bookcases need to hold will be helpful in deciding on the height of the bookcases and the number and types of shelves. Some bookcases offer both closed and open shelving. Closed shelving conceals clutter, which can be a help in family rooms that house a lot of toys and games.
Fireside bookcases can also be used to hold electronics, such as a TV and a sound system. A few considerations here would be the depth of the shelving, making sure the shelves are adjustable rather than fixed, and planning for a way to manage the wires.
Think about what would best compliment the feel of the room. This could be a sleek, modern, minimalist design, or a more traditional style, with details such as crown moldings and decorative hardware. This will determine the materials to be used, which range from painted wood composites to solid mahogany.
The next questions to consider are related to cost. Options are available in all price ranges, but in general custom built-in bookcases are costlier than freestanding bookcases. Investing in built-ins is a great choice for those who own their home, as it increases the value of the home. Built-ins also offer the owner the ability to personalize the design, perhaps even adding hidden compartments.
Once these decisions are made, shopping for the bookcases or choosing a builder will go more smoothly.