We know what you’re thinking: do John & Sherry really love built-ins that much? The answer is a resounding yes. Built-ins that combine function and form are hard to resist, and Hilary’s project of transforming inexpensive Craigslist bookcases into a polished architectural feature is a perfect example. It’s a clever use of space and a smart way to adapt pre-made, affordable pieces to suit a room. Here’s her story.
Hey there John + Sherry!
My husband and I moved into our little Cape Cod in New Jersey just over a year ago. In that first year we tackled the big projects: we removed old flooring, installed new hardwood floors, and completely renovated the kitchen. Once those major items were checked off our list, we turned to smaller, more enjoyable projects—like adding storage and display space in the living room by installing two built-ins.
After months of searching Craigslist, I finally found two solid, all-wood bookcases that were far from pretty but perfectly sturdy. They cost only $100 for the pair, which made them an ideal starting point. I removed the dated trim, sanded the surfaces, and painted them a crisp white using Benjamin Moore’s White Dove. To add contrast and depth, I painted the recessed wall behind the shelves a deep, royal navy using Behr’s December Eve, which makes the white shelves pop beautifully.
With the shelves painted and in place, I added trim to integrate the bookcases into the wall so they read as built-ins. Crown molding gave the installation a finished, architectural look, and we reinstalled the doors on the lower cabinets for concealed storage. Filling the shelves with favorite books, décor, and a few meaningful pieces made the room feel more personal, while the cabinet doors keep less attractive or bulkier items hidden away.
There are still a few trim details and paint touch-ups left to do, but I couldn’t wait to share the progress. We absolutely love how these built-ins anchor the living room and provide both display and storage where the wall was previously empty and underused. Thanks for taking a look—hope you like them as much as we do! – Hilary
This project is a great reminder that inexpensive or secondhand pieces can be elevated into design assets with some careful planning and a few finishing touches. Converting free-standing bookcases into built-ins is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, since it repurposes existing furniture rather than buying custom cabinetry. The result here is clean, classic, and tailored to the home’s style.
The choice of a dark navy backdrop is especially effective: it creates visual depth, highlights the white shelving, and makes displayed objects stand out. The mix of open display above and closed storage below is practical for living spaces where both aesthetics and organization matter. Reinstalling cabinet doors on the lower section keeps clutter out of sight while still maintaining an attractive overall composition.
For anyone considering a similar upgrade, look for sturdy wood bookcases with solid construction, remove any outdated trim, sand and prime before painting, and choose trim profiles that match the room’s architecture for a seamless built-in look. Small details like crown molding, matching paint colors for trim, and thoughtful styling of shelves will make a big difference in the final appearance.
Hilary’s transformation proves that with creativity, patience, and a modest budget, you can turn secondhand finds into lasting, functional features that elevate your home.