To build in or not to build in.
I work with a lot of clients while they are building their homes. Of course, there is always built-in cabinetry to be designed.
Kitchens have come a long way and offer so many possibilities to fulfill the needs of the homeowner. Bathrooms also offer a variety of options where the cabinetry is concerned. And have you seen laundry rooms and pantry “closets” in some of these homes today?
A cabinet maker has his work cut out for him!
One place I sometimes try and pull my clients away from built in cabinetry is next to a fireplace. The days of bookcases flanking each side of a fire feature is gone. It can sometimes become a very dated look.
Even on a remodel project, I sometimes suggest ripping the cabinets out.
These cabinets can provide great storage below, but the shelving above is restrictive. It is hard to place large decor items on short shelves. If the shelving is adjustable, that can be of some help. I sometimes recommend pulling all of the shelves out if possible and to place a piece of art or large art item within the larger, hollow space.
Even simply painting the back wall of the larger space can create a nice pop and contrast.
Many people are not decorating with small decor these days, so again, the limited space between shelves is a problem.
I like to leave the space next to fireplace open, creating a large niche.
A tall, decorative cabinet can add a nice piece if in good proportion to the niche. Maybe chest with a piece of art above can have a lot of personality. And think about what a mirror could do, giving great depth and character!
If you have to have a built-in cabinet, consider placing books upright and also some on their sides. Make sure to add some green, maybe a preserved boxwood to give some freshness. Place some framed art either back inside the shelves, or nailed to the front of a shelf.
More than anything, make sure to continue some sort of symmetry that began when the twin bookcases were built in. Considering shelving is rectangular, make sure to add some circular decor to break up the monotony.
Shown here is a model home set up that I designed for a builder. I talked him out of the built ins, which he was happy to save money from, and I added these tall cabinets that allowed me to give the room a theme of country casual. Opening the doors at the top gave greater dimension and personality. Adding some taller decor on top of the cabinets helped balance the space out nicely.
And please….don’t forget the fireplace screen! It really helps to dress up an otherwise unattractive hollow.
