What To Put In Built Ins

3 min read 21-11-2024

Built-in shelves and cabinets offer fantastic storage solutions, but maximizing their potential requires thoughtful planning. This guide explores creative and practical ideas for what to put in built-ins, transforming them from empty spaces into stylish and functional features of your home. Whether you're tackling a home office, living room, or kitchen, we've got you covered.

Optimize Your Built-Ins by Room

The ideal contents for your built-ins depend heavily on their location and intended use. Let's break it down room by room:

Living Room Built-Ins: Style and Storage

Living room built-ins often serve as a focal point, blending storage with aesthetic appeal.

H3: Bookshelves Galore

Classic Choice: Organize books by color, genre, or size for a visually pleasing display.
Beyond Books: Incorporate decorative objects, framed photos, plants, and sculptures to add personality.
Mix and Match: Combine books with baskets for storing blankets, magazines, or remotes.

H3: Media and Entertainment Centers

Tech Organization: Designate specific spaces for electronics like game consoles, DVD players, and streaming devices.
Cable Management: Utilize cable organizers to keep cords neatly tucked away.
Hidden Storage: Use baskets or boxes to store extra remotes, games, or movies.

H3: Display and Decor

Statement Pieces: Showcase prized possessions, such as family heirlooms or travel souvenirs.
Gallery Wall: Create a visually appealing gallery wall within the built-ins.
Lighting: Consider adding built-in lighting to highlight artwork or decorative objects.

Home Office Built-Ins: Productivity Powerhouses

A home office needs efficient organization. Built-ins are perfect for streamlining workflow.

H3: Paper Management Made Easy

File Organization: Use file folders, hanging files, and labeled drawers to keep paperwork organized.
Designated Drawers: Assign drawers to specific projects or types of documents.
Vertical Space: Utilize vertical dividers to maximize space within drawers.

H3: Tech and Supplies

Charging Station: Incorporate a charging station for laptops, phones, and tablets.
Printer Station: Designate a specific area for your printer and printer supplies.
Office Supplies: Use small containers and drawers to store pens, pencils, staples, and other essentials.

H3: Hidden Storage

Document Storage: Keep important documents safe in locked drawers or cabinets.
Seasonal Items: Store off-season materials such as extra office supplies or holiday decorations.

Kitchen Built-Ins: Culinary Organization

Kitchen built-ins should enhance both functionality and aesthetics.

H3: Pantry Perfection

Food Storage: Use canisters, jars, and labeled containers to store dry goods.
Spice Rack: Incorporate a spice rack for easy access to herbs and spices.
Pull-Out Drawers: Utilize pull-out drawers and shelves for optimal access to items.

H3: Appliance Integration

Built-in Appliances: Integrate appliances such as coffee makers or microwaves into the built-in design.
Small Appliance Storage: Designate drawers or shelves for small appliances like toasters or blenders.

Bedroom Built-Ins: Stylish Sleep Sanctuary

Bedroom built-ins can add a touch of elegance while providing practical storage.

H3: Clothing & Accessories

Wardrobes: Create ample wardrobe space with hanging rods and shelves.
Drawer Organization: Utilize drawer dividers to keep clothes and accessories neatly organized.
Shoe Storage: Incorporate shoe racks or drawers for efficient shoe storage.

H3: Nightstands and Extras

Nightstand Replacement: Use built-ins to replace nightstands, creating a more streamlined look.
Books and Decor: Add books, plants, and personal items to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Built-In Ideas

Don't limit yourself to the traditional! Here are some more creative ideas:

Hidden Laundry Hamper: Integrate a pull-out laundry hamper into your built-ins.
Wine Rack: Incorporate a wine rack into kitchen or dining room built-ins.
Toy Storage: In kids' rooms, use built-ins to store toys and games.
Pet Supplies: Designate a section for pet food, toys, and leashes.

Remember, the key to maximizing your built-ins lies in thoughtful planning and organization. By carefully considering your needs and style, you can transform these spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing features of your home.