How to Build Recessed Bookcases

This attic was updated with bright color, sparkling white trim and built-in bookcases that are often found in houses of similar age.

HRIPR-103_bookcase_after

Materials and Tools:

4x8 sheets of 3/4-inch birch plywood
two House of Fara pine fluted door casing sets
four House of Fara pine fluted casing
four House of Fara Hardwood embossed casing/chair rail
eight House of Fara pine rosette blocks
two House of Fara pine fluted side molding
Ace Sensations ceiling white paint
Ace Sensations paint, color Tree Frog
wood glue
screws
drill with 1-inch bit
chop saw
table saw
T-square
air compressor
pneumatic nail gun
circular saw
protective eyewear
gloves
two paint rollers
two paint brushes

Steps:

1. Measure the complete work area including wall, floor and ceiling dimension. Mark a level line where the recessed bookcases will go into the wall. Our bookcases were 40-3/4 inches by 23-7/8 inches wide.

2. Use a drill to make pilot holes in the corners of where the bookcases will go. This will create an inspection spot and also a place to start the saw. Avoid any wiring or electrical outlets that may be hidden behind the wall. Consult an electrician to move any electrical lines behind the wall before cutting further.

3. Use a hammer to enlarge the inspection hole and open the wall. With the circular saw, cut the rough opening for the bookcase. Clear away any plaster behind the wall. Change the depth of the blade on the drive to cut completely through the wall. Use the hammer to clear away the remaining wood. You now have the finished holes to begin building the bookcases.

4. Use the table saw and chop saw to cut the plywood into 12-inch-wide pieces. Measure and cut out plywood sections for the shelves with the table saw. Use a T-square to make sure the shelves are square.

HRIPR-103_bookcase_step13

5. With the table saw, cut 3/4-inch grooves in the side pieces halfway through the plywood. These grooves will be the supports for the shelves. Place a stream of carpenter's glue in the grooves and on the shelves. Place the shelves in position and screw them into place. Repeat on the other side of the bookcase.

6. Slide the bookcase into the rough opening. It should be flush against the wall. Level and plumb the bookcases. Use a nail gun to affix them to the insides of the wall. Prime the bookcase when it is solidly in place.

7. For the molding around our three bookcases, we used solid pine door sets with rosettes. We used fluted trim around the bookcases, leaving space for rosettes at each corner. In this case we needed six plinths (bottom base molding), 12 rails (horizontal strips), and six stiles (vertical strips). We cut a template of each size first to make sure each unit will be the same. To cut the molding down, we placed the templates on the various molding pieces and then marked the molding with a pencil. We used a chop saw to cut the moldings down to size.

HRIPR-103_bookcase_plinth

8. A plinth provides a transition between the different thicknesses of the baseboard and the furniture. Cut two plinths for each bookcase, then nail them into place. Glue and staple the molding on the bookcase at the top and across the front of the shelves. Apply the molding to the sides of the bookcase with the glue and staples. Add rosettes to the top corners of the bookcase with glue and staples. Paint the bookcases and let dry.

Next Up

Upgrade a Bookshelf With Cane Webbing

Cane furniture is hot in home design, but it can be pricy. Give your basic, open-back bookshelf a trendy new look with this easy how-to.

How to Build a Floating Shelf With Hidden Charging Station

Don't let unsightly cables and cords clutter your living space. This DIY floating shelf has a built-in power strip tucked away in a drawer — the perfect spot to charge your phones, tablets and other gadgets out of sight.

How to Organize Books on a Bookshelf

'Tis the season to declutter and organize. Discover easy and clever ways to arrange, style and find the perfect new home for your book collection.

How to Make a Decorative Pegboard Shelf

Need wall storage but can’t find just the right shelving unit? Try this modern take on an old-school storage idea. It’s easy to build and you can customize the colors however you’d like.

How to Build a Modern Outdoor Bench

Looking for more outdoor seating or a decorative bench for your porch? Try your hand at this easy woodworking project that can be built in less than a day.

How to Design a Bold Home Bar Inspired by 'Windy City Rehab'

Skip the trip downtown this weekend and build this bold in-home bar inspired by Windy City Rehab instead.

How to Build a Retractable Canopy

Control the shade by making your own DIY retractable canopy. Open it up to create a shady retreat or close it to let the sun in.

How to Make Wire Shelf Covers That Look Just Like Floating Shelves

This renter and homeowner-friendly hack transforms tricky wire shelves into stylish, faux floating wood shelves.

How to Build a Grilling Island

Create an outdoor kitchen by nestling a gas grill into a custom-built, granite-topped island.

How to Build a Raised Garden Bed Step-by-Step

Take your garden to the next level with this complete plan and step-by-step instructions for an easy raised garden bed DIY project. Your plants (and wallet) will thank you.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.