Let’s talk about the one home upgrade I swear by—floor to ceiling built in bookshelves. Not only do they make a room look super put together, but they also offer next-level storage. Whether you’re a bookworm, a decor lover, or just tired of wasted wall space, this is a design choice that delivers big style and function.
I’ve added these to my own living room, and honestly, I can’t imagine going back. In this guide, I’m diving into everything you need to know—why they work, how to style them, and what you’ll need to consider if you’re thinking about building or installing your own floor to ceiling built in bookshelves.
Why Go for Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves?
These bookshelves are a major step up from your average freestanding shelf. Here’s why I love mine—and why you’ll probably love yours too:
-
They make small rooms feel taller by drawing the eyes upward.
-
Perfect for any decor style—modern, rustic, traditional, you name it.
-
Custom-fit storage means no more wasted corners or weird gaps.
It’s one of those changes that instantly levels up your space, both visually and practically. And if you love that clean, magazine-worthy look? Built-ins are a no-brainer.
Planning Your Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves
You don’t want to just wing it when it comes to these shelves. Planning is key. I learned the hard way—measure twice, cut once. Here’s what to think about before getting started:
1. Measure Your Wall Space
-
Get height, width, and depth right the first time.
-
Factor in baseboards and crown molding.
-
Check for outlets, vents, or switches in the way.
2. Choose the Right Materials
-
Plywood is affordable and strong.
-
MDF offers a smoother finish for painting.
-
Hardwood looks luxe but can be pricey.
3. Decide on Built-In or Semi-Built
-
True built-ins are attached to the wall—permanent and seamless.
-
Semi-built-ins can look similar but are easier to remove later.
-
Your choice depends on budget and whether you’re renting or owning.
Planning the design in advance saves you headaches and ensures the finished product looks like it belongs in your home.
Design Ideas for Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves
Here’s the fun part: picking your bookshelf style. I tried out a few designs before landing on mine, so here are some great looks to consider:
| Style Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Symmetrical | Evenly spaced shelves on both sides of a fireplace or TV | Traditional homes |
| Modern Minimal | Clean lines, sleek edges, neutral colors | Urban apartments |
| Rustic Farmhouse | Reclaimed wood and open back panels | Cozy and casual vibes |
| Library Wall | Full wall of books with sliding ladder | Hardcore book lovers |
You can also mix open shelving with closed cabinets at the bottom for extra storage—great for hiding wires, toys, or anything not so pretty.
Decorating Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves Like a Pro
Once you’ve got the shelves up, it’s time to style them. Trust me, even the most stunning built-ins can look cluttered if you’re not careful. Here’s how I decorate mine:
-
Mix books with decor—think vases, plants, and photo frames.
-
Group items in odd numbers—it creates visual interest.
-
Leave some breathing room—not every shelf needs to be packed.
Pro tip: Stick to a color palette to avoid things looking messy. I usually rotate pieces seasonally to keep things fresh without overhauling everything.
Cost Breakdown: Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves
Worried about the cost? Here’s a general idea of what you might spend, whether you’re DIY-ing or hiring out.
| Option | Average Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| DIY | $200–$800 | Materials like wood, paint, tools |
| Pre-Made Units | $500–$1,500 | Flat-pack kits, easier to install |
| Custom Built-Ins | $2,000–$6,000+ | Full design, build, and install |
DIY is budget-friendly if you’re handy, but custom work gives you the perfect fit and pro finish. If you’re somewhere in the middle like me, consider getting a handyman to help you customize a prefab unit.
Best Rooms for Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves
Don’t just limit built-ins to the living room. I’ve seen (and used) floor to ceiling built in bookshelves in tons of different rooms:
-
Home Office: Organize supplies, books, and even printer storage.
-
Bedroom: Create a cozy reading nook or display space.
-
Dining Room: Perfect for storing china, cookbooks, or barware.
-
Hallways: Narrow built-ins work wonders in tight spaces.
The flexibility is what makes these shelves such a smart upgrade. They look luxe in any room and instantly make the space feel more intentional.
Pros and Cons of Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves
Let’s keep it real. There are pros and a few cons with built-ins. Here’s the honest breakdown:
Pros:
-
Boost home value
-
Save floor space
-
Offer tons of storage
-
Customizable to your exact taste
Cons:
-
Can be expensive
-
Not easy to move
-
Requires solid planning or pro help
But in my experience, the pros definitely outweigh the cons. Especially if you want something timeless and useful.
Final Thoughts on Floor To Ceiling Built In Bookshelves
If you’re looking to upgrade your space with something beautiful and practical, you can’t go wrong with floor to ceiling built in bookshelves. They make the most of your walls, add major style points, and keep your life organized—what’s not to love?
I’ve installed them, styled them, and even helped a few friends plan theirs. Once you get into built-ins, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. So whether you’re going full custom or DIYing your way through the weekend, go ahead and make the leap. Your books, decor, and empty walls will thank you for choosing floor to ceiling built in bookshelves.