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Friday, July 11, 2008

Design Question


Okay, all you design experts out there. This is a shot of the living room leading to the dining room. We're considering having some built-in bookshelves installed on either side of the "arch" to utilize that space. Question is, should the bookshelves extend to the ceiling, or just to the top of the arch so that they're all the same height? Hope that question makes sense. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks!

10 comments:

Nicole Brown said...

I really wish I could help but I struggle in the design area myself. My vote would be to the top of the arch not up higher. But I think the shelves is a great idea. Have fun!

Familia Forsloff said...

I think that they should extend to the top of the arch only becuase youll want to be able to dust easy and reach books easy, plus it wont seem as cluttered if you went all the way up...cant wait to see the results!

Unknown said...

here is my opinion. My parents have the same arch way in their library and they built book shelves on both sides and did a long horizontal across the top of the "arch" extending to the ceiling. Does that make sense. It looks really nice so that would me my vote. I think it will give it a finished look :o)

Jenny said...

Laura, I know, I love that idea. That's what I initially proposed to the builder, but he said there wouldn't be enough support for a horizontal shelf above the arch way, unfortunately. He said the shelf would eventually fall, even if we didn't put anything on it. I wonder how your parents did it?

Michelle said...

Good luck Jenny!

3inpink and 1inblue! said...

Jenny!! It's your Interior Design friend Stacy to the rescue. Congrats on the new home. Way to go guys. Thanks for asking my opinion. I mean this in a nice way....First of all it is not an arch. That is the McDonald's M shape! I would describe it as a pass through or a 60" (size?). One note-I would only do bookshelves there if the depth of the wall adjacent to the opening is greater than 16" deep. Bookshelves are generally 16" in depth and you want an inch or two more for molding. Height- I would go to the entryway height. I suggest checking out the library or home depot for some photos of custom bookcases by an opening. You might find some ideas on molding and finish work. I suggest showing a carpenter your vision and then have him draft it up so you can review it. If you need anything else feel free to write me. GO for it.

Jenny said...

Stacy, I knew you'd come through!! :) Thank you so much. Your comment was so helpful. I didn't know what to call the thing - the pass through apparently. ;)

Jenny said...

Thanks, guys, for the comments. Looks likes it's unanimous - if we build bookshelves they should be level with the entryway height!

Halliday's said...

Love the hardwood floors! Built ins are so nice especially with some crown molding to complete the look. Looks like you made your decision. Yeah!

Halliday's said...

I saw your chandelier and was wondering... are you planning to keep it, re-purpose it, etc??? You could paint it bronze or black and put cute lamp shades on it... hmmm... oh, the possibilities await!