Jennifer Rizzo

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built-in bookcase reveal….

January 17, 2012 By Jennifer

I am so excited to share this built-in bookcase with you! It sounds so funny, but to finally have  small space of my own dedicated to creating is like a dream come true. And it’s something that I have thought about doing for so long that I can’t believe that we actually did it! My hubby was such a good sport too and quite the hunky handyman.:)
Here are two shots of the space before. We are in a split level and are lucky enough that our dining room area is a bit more elongated than the other homes in our area.  I was never quite sure what to do with the back area as you can tell by the two photos.
Before
You can see the how we built it here.

After

Make a work area with a built-in bookcase

 What do you think of my bookcases?
DIY built-in bookcase with work area behind it.
 let’s get closer…
 and peek around the corner…
 Ta-da! Isn’t it exciting!!!
 My daughter even made me a sign.We still have to move the clock over the mantel and I still have lots of fussing to do. I want to put a magnetic cork board up among other things, but I couldn’t wait to finish to show you.
 it was so nice to pull stuff out of plastic tubs and have  space to put it!
 We made the shelves adjustable so that I could get bigger things on there if I needed to.
 There’s even a space for my sewing machine and canvases and tall stuff too.
 I wanted the back to blend in with the rest of the house and serve a purpose.
 …And hide the incredible mess I am capable of making. And this way if I need to spread out past my desk, the table isn’t too far away, and I don’t have to be constantly cleaning up my space.
And if for some reason I am not using the space any more, we now have a little home office or even  a place to put a reading nook. I feel like that area has more purpose.I am so glad we finally took those first steps and just did it!
Jen
P.S. For those of you that have asked; my drapes were sewn from a Thomas Paul fabric called Aviary.
If you are reading this post at any other sites or blogs besides Jenniferrizzo.com, your rss feed,e-mail or in your reader this is stolen content.

*This was posted Via Jennifer Rizzo. com

Comments

  1. rachel @ gilly grey says

    January 17, 2012 at 11:15 am

    How perfect! I love everything about it!

    Rachel
    xoxo

  2. Leonora says

    January 17, 2012 at 11:22 am

    This looks really great! It not only multiplies the uses of your space, but it defines your dining area so nicely. It has added great deal to the personality of the room- and such a simple solution!

  3. Life love, clutter and other beautiful things. says

    January 17, 2012 at 11:41 am

    Lovely job!

    I love it when the practical becomes functional. The book case does it here, divides thenspacenand creates your creative nook!!

    xox

  4. Bente says

    January 17, 2012 at 11:48 am

    How great. I love it.

    Have a creative day.

  5. miss flibbertigibbet says

    January 17, 2012 at 11:54 am

    It looks great! You created two spaces with one piece……great use of space! Enjoy your new sanctuary!
    Lorraine

  6. Inspire Me Heather says

    January 17, 2012 at 12:19 pm

    Nice job, it’s perfect!

  7. Blondie's Journal says

    January 17, 2012 at 12:44 pm

    This is such a great use of space, Jennifer. Not only does your craft/work area look fantastic, but the dining room side is beautiful! Great job!

    XO,
    Jane

  8. Deb says

    January 17, 2012 at 1:10 pm

    Congratulations on having such a great studio space. I love it. I think it is a very clever use of the space. and looks great too!

  9. Amy @MaisonDecor says

    January 17, 2012 at 1:31 pm

    Genius! Very very nice~I think it looks wonderful!

  10. Alissa says

    January 17, 2012 at 1:45 pm

    what a great space! i love the bookcase…just a great way to divide the spaces.

  11. Jen says

    January 17, 2012 at 1:45 pm

    Looks terrific! Best part is the sign over your desk. 😉 Enjoy your new space.

  12. Pattie says

    January 17, 2012 at 1:59 pm

    What a nice cozy little place to create, It’s perfect You are so blessed to have a wonderful hubby to help make it happen. Enjoy

    Pattie

  13. Jen Kershner says

    January 17, 2012 at 2:01 pm

    Be still my heart! It’s so lovely! And yay for hunky, handy hubbies!

  14. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says

    January 17, 2012 at 2:18 pm

    That turned out fantastic, Jen! I love that you still have some openness there and that it doesn’t close off either space entirely. I really love it and I can see that you would definitely get more use out of it this way.

  15. Sherry says

    January 17, 2012 at 2:37 pm

    Now that is using space creatively! It’s so good it looks like it was always meant to be there and what more could you ask for? You even have a sign that declares the space all yours!! Well done!!

  16. Amy@HomeRemediesRX says

    January 17, 2012 at 2:53 pm

    Great job, Jen! I love that you took an awkward space and turned it into something useful (and pretty)! Enjoy your new space!

  17. Penny @ The Comforts of Home/Flea Market Makeovers says

    January 17, 2012 at 2:58 pm

    WOW! Jen that space turned out wonderful. You bookcases really create privacy for you. I smiled when I saw the sign your daughter made for you.

    I spy some bird cups I sent your way. Fun to see something from me in your home. I have a small painting of yours sitting on my dining side board and think of you every day when I pass it!
    Hugs,
    Penny

  18. Urban Farmgirl says

    January 17, 2012 at 3:03 pm

    Looks great, Jen! Practical, functional and pretty! 3 of my favorite things! ;o)

    Mary

  19. Debby says

    January 17, 2012 at 3:15 pm

    It looks really good. What a great idea to divide the space like that.
    I live in a split level as well. Our rooms on both sides of the house are so long…..like 29 feet long. Those with new big homes might not think that is long. Sometimes I wish I could divide the spaces, esp. in the bedroom. Hmmmmmmm, I have some ideas now.

  20. Julia says

    January 17, 2012 at 3:21 pm

    It looks so wonderful, functional, and pretty to boot! I love the sign:). Enjoy your new space!

    ~Julia

  21. chickie says

    January 17, 2012 at 3:21 pm

    Absolutely fabulous the way you recreated this room. Love it. Enjoy the day Jen… Chickie

  22. Andrea says

    January 17, 2012 at 3:33 pm

    It looks wonderful, and like it was there all along! I have the exact tiered stand, and never thought of using it in that way-thanks for the idea!

  23. Renee from Where the Grass is Greener says

    January 17, 2012 at 3:35 pm

    Looks awesome! You had me there in the beginning! I love how you can hide everything (even though it still looks good),

  24. trash talk says

    January 17, 2012 at 3:48 pm

    Amazing what a cleverly creative woman and her hunky husband can create!
    Deb

  25. Pine Tree Home says

    January 17, 2012 at 4:14 pm

    Wow! Never would have thought that this was going to be a little room divider too. Cool.

  26. Shabby Jen says

    January 17, 2012 at 4:27 pm

    Oh it’s beautiful and that’s so shabby too!!! It really gave me an idea for my own rental home I live in!! How pretty!!! Thank you for sharing! Hop over to my blog for a couple share’s I’ve posted!! Ciao!! xxxooo Shabby Jen

  27. Fresh Vanilla For C says

    January 17, 2012 at 4:33 pm

    Hi~~ It looks great aAND you get to enjoy a beautiful space of your own. Enjoy!!!
    ~Cheryl

  28. carsophia says

    January 17, 2012 at 4:40 pm

    brilliant!

  29. Sherri says

    January 17, 2012 at 5:59 pm

    Jen, you new area is awesome!! You and your hubby did an fantastic job!! Bravo!!

  30. Jacqueline says

    January 17, 2012 at 6:26 pm

    How perfect…your own little spot. I want one!!! Looks great

  31. Stacey@A Sort Of Fairytale says

    January 17, 2012 at 6:44 pm

    It looks so great and I’m glad you have your own little spot to create now!

  32. Deb says

    January 17, 2012 at 7:07 pm

    I love your new space! It’s so cozy and cute. The wall space on the other side looks great too.

  33. mandi says

    January 17, 2012 at 7:28 pm

    Wow! It looks so great! I can’t believe how much room was back there!

  34. blondiensc says

    January 17, 2012 at 8:22 pm

    You did a great job Jen, you are sooo handy,do you know what I could do in my house if i didn’t have to rely on my man!! Love what you did!

  35. Anne Marie says

    January 17, 2012 at 8:24 pm

    Jason wants me to ask you if you are “for hire”

    he’s so impressed

    as am I –

    one thing is for sure, you won’t ever go hungry!! you multi-talent you!!

  36. Kirby Dunton Carespodi says

    January 17, 2012 at 9:28 pm

    Oh, Jennifer…this is perfect! I am currently working with my hunky (for an old guy) handyman husband to finish up out attic space to use half of it for my creative space. And the sign your daughter made is the best part!

  37. Kristy says

    January 17, 2012 at 10:01 pm

    Oh my heck !! What a great space !! Wonderful makeover !! Enjoy fussing over it ! I would never want to leave !! LOL!!

  38. A Cottage Muse says

    January 17, 2012 at 11:36 pm

    What a wonderful space…great job!

  39. chateau chic says

    January 18, 2012 at 12:35 am

    This is fabulous. Love how you added extra wall space to the dining area as well.
    Mary Alice

  40. Lulu and Co. says

    January 18, 2012 at 1:56 am

    Oh Jen I am so thrilled for you! It looks absolutely fantastic and so brilliant! Love it!!!!!!!!
    xo,
    Lulu

  41. AndeM1 says

    January 18, 2012 at 2:04 am

    Just lovely….so perfect….and hiden so you can be messy if you need to be. I love it….OMG…I was so going to ask about your drapes…….(smile)……what a great reveal!

  42. susan says

    January 18, 2012 at 2:36 am

    This looks great! I love the way you finished the back of the bookcases-great idea.

  43. Chrissy...The Apothecary Shop says

    January 18, 2012 at 2:54 am

    Looks amazing Jen…very much YOU..now its time to relax and enjoy it! x0

  44. Shanon at Vintage Sparkle Chic says

    January 18, 2012 at 3:46 am

    I love how it turned out! What a way to turn space into very useable space! How fun to go in there now and craft away. Perfect.

    ~Shanon

  45. nannykim says

    January 18, 2012 at 3:57 am

    fantastic idea!! I love it.Tell me about the cup holder—where did you find that!

  46. Jamie @ The Bullock 5 says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:25 am

    Love it! Your daughter’s sign needs to be framed 🙂

  47. pat says

    January 18, 2012 at 7:50 am

    It is every thing and more. What a perfect spot for you to unleash your creative genius! Chalk up another amazing decorating project by Jennifer Rizzo and Company! Take care sweetie and stay warm…

  48. Daune Pitman | Cottage in the Oaks says

    January 18, 2012 at 12:13 pm

    Love it!

  49. Stephanie says

    January 18, 2012 at 12:21 pm

    Brilliant! Happy creating!

  50. Jeanine says

    January 18, 2012 at 3:05 pm

    Love everything about it!

  51. Kim Bolton says

    January 18, 2012 at 3:18 pm

    It looks so beautiful and such a great idea! Looks just like a real wall!!

  52. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  53. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  54. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  55. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  56. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  57. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  58. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  59. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    January 18, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I love everything about your case and your space(s}! I wish to thank you for your contribution to Jeanne’s e-class. You are so inspiring,Jennifer! Your facebook input is appreciated as well!
    ~Lynne
    [w/L]

  60. Bonnie says

    January 18, 2012 at 7:38 pm

    It’s beautiful!! What an awesome solution – it’s incredibly practical and maintains the beauty of the space. I love it.

  61. Heidi says

    January 18, 2012 at 9:59 pm

    AWESOME! It is so nice to have a space to be creative ~ it looks great and fits into your home so well!
    :)Heidi

  62. Leah says

    January 18, 2012 at 10:08 pm

    I love this! It’s so creative. How did you ever think of this. You clever girl.

  63. Lindsay says

    January 19, 2012 at 3:01 am

    oh my goodness where is that huge mug holder from?? i’ve been looking every where for something like that!

  64. Rhiannon Rising says

    January 19, 2012 at 7:08 am

    That seriously looks awesome. The beadboard… love it. It might blend even better if you added molding to the rest of the room. Just a thought! It still is fabulous as it is!

  65. Lou Cinda @ Tattered Hydrangeas says

    January 19, 2012 at 3:13 pm

    WOW! This is so great!! What a perfect place to do your magic! I am jealous 😉

    Great job! I want one!

    Lou Cinda

  66. Anne Lorys - Fiona and Twig says

    January 19, 2012 at 9:42 pm

    What a great space for you, Jen! I absolutely love it! Lucky you. 🙂

    XOXO,
    Anne

  67. traci says

    January 20, 2012 at 1:32 pm

    jen it’s beautiful. i am so excited for you. what a great space. and the back of it is gorgeous too. yeahhhh!!!

  68. The Yellow Cape Cod says

    January 20, 2012 at 8:14 pm

    Oh My Lanta. That whole space is gorgeous.

  69. mwimp says

    January 27, 2012 at 11:47 pm

    i luv these! you did an amazing job. where did you get the mug holder from I luv it!

  70. Doda Smith says

    January 31, 2012 at 8:37 pm

    excellent solution. I’ll make a mental note of that one!

  71. Thereasa Gargano says

    April 3, 2012 at 1:18 pm

    I love the whole room, simply gorgeous! I collect large clocks, where did you get that amazing clock?

  72. freckled laundry says

    April 19, 2013 at 8:53 pm

    That is such an awesome idea, Jennifer! It looks b.e.a.u.t.i.f.u.l.

  73. Terry Moore says

    April 19, 2013 at 9:24 pm

    I can see why you are excited! I would be too. This is genius.

  74. Unknown says

    August 2, 2013 at 3:48 am

    Thank you SO much for this idea!

  75. Good Time Charlie says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:37 pm

    I love this project. There are so many areas in my home I think this would work. What a difference it makes to have a little space of your own to work and create. And not be seen from the rest of your house. I bet you are having fun in there! Love the sign. I have one similar from my daughter when I finally carved out an area just for me. So good to raise daughters who recognize mom can work from home too, but needs her own space! If you have time, I would love to have this linked up at my party that runs through Thursday-Sunday. Starts at 2:00 PST. Thanks!

  76. LAurie says

    November 18, 2014 at 6:30 pm

    I love this! It is beautiful and useful. Thanks for sharing it with us!

Trackbacks

  1. Small space living pt.1-tape measure living - Jennifer Rizzo says:
    January 12, 2015 at 4:55 am

    […] and then we realized that our space needed to change again as I needed a studio space and we put in a built in bookcase wall. […]

  2. Welcome to our home!!!! - Jennifer Rizzo says:
    February 4, 2015 at 3:02 pm

    […] different ways:   The breakfast nook  and dining area has been through many changes!  Our built-in bookshelf/my studio area Our bathroom renovation Our master […]

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