Built-Ins 101: Everything You Need to Know About Custom Built-Ins
Imagine walking into your home and everything has its place! No more cluttered countertops or overflowing closets!
This is exactly what our client needed in the foyer of her Exeter, NH condo. After we created a beautiful built-in for her, we thought it was time for us to answer some of your questions about built-ins!
Custom built-ins can transform your living space into a haven of organization and style. In this article, we’ll answer all your burning questions about built-ins, from the benefits and design process to costs and maintenance. Let’s dive in and explore the world of custom built-ins, where functionality meets beauty, and every inch of your home can be tailored to your needs!
What are built-ins?
Built-ins are custom-designed furniture pieces that are integrated into the structure of your home. Unlike freestanding furniture, built-ins are permanently fixed to the walls, floors, or ceilings, making them an integral part of your living space. They can take many forms, including bookshelves, entertainment centers, closets, and storage benches. The beauty of built-ins lies in their ability to maximize space, enhance organization, and add a seamless, custom look to your home.
What are the benefits of custom built-ins?
Custom built-ins offer numerous benefits that can significantly enhance your living space:
Maximized Space: Built-ins make the most of every inch, especially in awkward or underutilized areas.
Enhanced Organization: With built-ins, you can design storage solutions tailored to your specific needs, keeping your home tidy and clutter-free.
Aesthetic Appeal: Built-ins can be designed to perfectly match your home’s decor, adding a cohesive and polished look.
Increased Home Value: High-quality built-ins can increase your home’s resale value by providing desirable, custom storage solutions.
Durability: Built-ins are typically more durable than freestanding furniture because they are connected to the structure of the home.
Who do I hire for built-ins: a carpenter or a cabinet maker?
Choosing the right professional for your built-in project is crucial. Both carpenters and cabinet makers have the skills to create built-ins, but their expertise varies:
Carpenters: Skilled in a wide range of woodworking tasks, carpenters are versatile and can handle various aspects of home construction and renovations, including built-ins.
Cabinet Makers: Specialized in creating cabinetry and detailed woodwork, cabinet makers focus on precision and craftsmanship, making them ideal for complex built-in projects.
For custom built-ins, especially those with intricate designs or high-end finishes, a cabinet maker might be the better choice. However, if your project involves structural changes, a broader scope of work, or more design flexibility, a carpenter with experience in built-ins might be a better option.
What is the process for designing custom built-ins?
Designing custom built-ins involves several steps to ensure the final product meets your needs and complements your home:
Consultation: Meet with a professional to discuss your vision, needs, and budget.
Design: The professional will create detailed plans and sketches, considering your preferences and the space’s dimensions.
Material Selection: Choose materials that match your home’s style and your functional needs.
Approval: Review and approve the final design before construction begins.
Construction: The professional will build and install the built-ins, ensuring a perfect fit and finish.
Throughout the process, communication with your chosen professional is key to achieving the desired result.
What are the best materials for a built-in?
The choice of materials for your built-in will depend on your aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and budget. Here are some common options:
Wood: Hardwood (like oak, maple, or cherry) is durable and offers a classic, high-end look. Softwood (like pine) is more affordable but less durable.
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard): A cost-effective alternative to solid wood, MDF is smooth and provides a great foundation for painted finishes, but it’s not as durable.
Plywood: Strong and versatile, plywood is a good middle-ground option, offering a balance of cost and durability.
MDO (Medium Density Overlay): MDO is a hybrid of MDF and plywood. It combines the superior paintability of MDF with the structural strength of plywood.
Laminate: Durable and easy to clean, laminate is ideal for high-traffic areas or spaces prone to moisture, like bathrooms or kitchens.
Consider your specific needs and the overall design of your home when selecting materials for your built-ins.
Pro Tip: If your built-ins will get a solid color finish, consider using a combination of MDO panels and soft maple (hardwood) trim boards. This combination often offers the best balance of paintability, durability, & cost for built-ins.
What is the best finish for built-ins?
Choosing the right finish for your built-ins is crucial for both their look and longevity. Here’s a simple guide to help you select the perfect finish:
Paint
Versatility: Paint offers endless color options to seamlessly blend with your home’s decor. From vibrant hues to soft neutrals, painted finishes can create the perfect look for your space.
Durability: High-quality paint is very durable, making it a great choice for areas that see daily use, like closets and living rooms.
Maintenance: Painted surfaces are easy to keep clean. Regular dusting and occasional touch-ups will keep them looking fresh.
Stain
Natural Beauty: Stain brings out the wood’s natural grain, adding a warm and rich tone. It’s perfect if you want to highlight the beauty of the wood.
Protection: When paired with a protective topcoat, stain provides solid resistance to moisture and wear, making it ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
Maintenance: Stained surfaces are easy to maintain with regular dusting and occasional reapplication of the protective topcoat to keep them vibrant.
Clear Finish
Transparency: Clear finishes, like polyurethane or lacquer, allow the wood’s natural beauty to shine through while adding a layer of protection.
Durability: These finishes offer excellent protection against scratches, moisture, and UV rays, making them versatile for any room.
Maintenance: Most clear finishes are low-maintenance—just dust regularly and wipe with a damp cloth to keep them looking great!
2K Polyurethane
Exceptional Durability: 2K polyurethane is incredibly tough, resisting scratches, chemicals, and heavy use. It’s an excellent choice for built-ins in high-traffic areas, like mudrooms.
Professional Finish: It gives a high-quality, professional look and is UV resistant, preventing the wood from yellowing over time.
Health Considerations: This finish requires professional application due to its toxicity. Ensure proper ventilation and hire an experienced professional to keep your family safe.
Oil Finish
Natural Appearance: Oil finishes, such as tung or linseed oil, deeply penetrate the wood, offering a subtle, natural sheen that enhances its warmth.
Easy Application: They’re straightforward to apply and refresh as needed, making them a low-effort choice for maintaining a beautiful finish.
Protection: While not as robust as paint or clear finishes, oil offers decent protection and is perfect for built-ins that won’t face heavy wear and tear.
Choosing the Right Finish
When selecting a finish, think about the function of your built-ins, the overall look you want to achieve, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Also, consider the health implications of your preferred finish—opt for low-VOC or VOC-free products for a safer indoor environment. By weighing these factors, you’ll find a finish that enhances the beauty and functionality of your built-ins while creating a welcoming and healthy home.
How much do built-ins cost?
The cost of built-ins can vary quite a bit, depending on their size, complexity, materials, and the finish you choose. Here’s a rough guide to help you get started:
Single Built-In: If you’re thinking about something like a custom entertainment center, you’re generally looking at a starting price of around $7,000. Of course, this can rise based on the design and materials you select.
Sets of Built-Ins: For larger projects, such as outfitting an entire mudroom or primary bedroom closet, expect to invest between $20,000 and $40,000.
Even though smaller projects might seem less complex, they often involve similar levels of planning, material sourcing, and tool setup as larger ones. This means that larger built-in installations can sometimes be more cost-effective per unit compared to single pieces. To get an accurate estimate for your specific needs, it’s a great idea to chat with a professional who can provide pricing tailored to your project.
Do custom built-ins add value to my home?
Custom built-ins can enhance your home’s value in several ways:
Increased Functionality: Prospective buyers appreciate homes with ample storage and functional spaces.
Custom Design Appeal: Built-ins can make your home stand out in the market by offering unique, custom features that buyers won’t find elsewhere.
Efficient Use of Space: Built-ins optimize space, making your home feel larger and more organized.
High-Quality Craftsmanship: Well-crafted built-ins demonstrate attention to detail and quality, which can be very appealing to buyers.
In essence, built-ins provide both practical and aesthetic benefits, making your home more attractive to potential buyers and possibly increasing its market value.
Can built-ins be installed in any room of my home?
Yes, built-ins can be installed in virtually any room of your home. Here are some popular locations:
Living Room: Entertainment centers, bookshelves, and display cabinets.
Bedroom: Custom closets, dressers, and headboards with integrated storage.
Kitchen: Pantry storage, cabinetry, and islands with built-in appliances.
Bathroom: Vanities, linen closets, and medicine cabinets.
Home Office: Desks, shelving, and filing cabinets.
Mudroom/Entryway: Benches, cubbies, and coat racks.
Built-ins can be tailored to suit the specific needs and layout of any room, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
How do I choose the right style for my built-ins?
Choosing the right style for your built-ins involves considering your home’s overall design, your personal preferences, and the intended function of the built-ins. Here are some tips:
Match Your Home’s Style: Ensure the design complements your home’s existing architecture and decor. For example, a traditional home might benefit from classic wood finishes, while a modern home could feature sleek, minimalist designs.
Consider Functionality: Think about how you’ll use the built-ins and select a design that meets those needs. For instance, a home office built-in should include ample storage for files and office supplies.
Personal Preferences: Choose colors, materials, and finishes that reflect your personal taste. This will ensure you enjoy the built-ins for years to come.
Consult a Professional: A designer or cabinet maker can provide valuable insights and suggestions to help you choose the perfect style.
What types of built-ins are available for different spaces?
Built-ins can be customized for various rooms and purposes. Here are some examples:
Living Room: Entertainment centers, bookshelves, display cabinets, and window seats.
Bedroom: Custom closets, dressers, headboards with storage, and built-in nightstands.
Kitchen: Pantry storage, cabinetry, built-in appliances, and islands.
Bathroom: Vanities, linen closets, medicine cabinets, and shelving.
Home Office: Desks, shelving, filing cabinets, and built-in workstations.
Mudroom/Entryway: Benches, cubbies, coat racks, and shoe storage.
Each type of built-in can be designed to maximize space and functionality while enhancing the room’s overall aesthetic.
What should I consider when planning built-in storage solutions?
Planning built-in storage solutions requires careful consideration of several factors:
Space: Assess the available space and determine how best to utilize it.
Functionality: Identify your storage needs and design the built-ins to meet them. Consider adjustable shelving, drawers, and compartments for flexibility.
Aesthetics: Ensure the built-ins complement your home’s decor and personal style.
Materials: Choose durable materials that suit the intended use and location.
Budget: Set a realistic budget and work with a professional to find solutions that fit within it.
Proper planning ensures your built-in storage solutions are both practical and visually appealing.
Can built-ins be added to small spaces?
Absolutely! Built-ins are particularly useful in small spaces where maximizing every inch is crucial. Here are some ideas for adding built-ins to compact areas:
Under Stairs: Utilize the space under your staircase for storage cabinets or a cozy reading nook.
Nooks and Alcoves: Transform small, awkward spaces into functional storage or display areas.
Closets: Custom closet systems can dramatically increase storage capacity in small bedrooms.
Hallways: Add narrow shelving or cabinets along hallways to make use of otherwise wasted space.
Corners: Corner units can provide valuable storage without taking up much floor space.
Built-ins can make small spaces more efficient and organized, enhancing the overall functionality of your home.
Are custom built-ins worth the investment?
Investing in custom built-ins can be highly worthwhile for several reasons:
Enhanced Functionality: Built-ins provide tailored storage solutions that meet your specific needs, making your home more functional.
Increased Home Value: High-quality built-ins can increase your home’s market value by offering unique, desirable features.
Aesthetic Appeal: Custom built-ins can enhance the overall look of your home, making it more attractive and cohesive.
Durability: Built-ins are often more durable than freestanding furniture, providing long-lasting value.
While the initial cost may be higher than purchasing ready-made furniture, the long-term benefits of custom built-ins often justify the investment.
How do I maintain and clean custom built-ins?
Proper maintenance and cleaning can keep your built-ins looking their best for years. Here are some tips:
Regular Dusting: Dust built-ins regularly with a soft cloth or duster to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris.
Cleaning: Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
Avoid Moisture: Keep built-ins dry, especially in areas prone to humidity like bathrooms. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent water damage.
Protect Surfaces: Use coasters, placemats, and protective pads to prevent scratches and stains.
Check Hardware: Periodically inspect and tighten any hardware, such as hinges and handles, to ensure they remain secure.
Routine care will help maintain the appearance and functionality of your built-ins.
Are there eco-friendly options for built-in materials?
Yes, there are several eco-friendly material options for built-ins, including:
Reclaimed Wood: Using reclaimed wood reduces waste and adds character to your built-ins.
Bamboo: A rapidly renewable resource, bamboo is a sustainable choice that’s also durable and attractive.
MDF with Low VOC: MDF made with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional MDF.
Recycled Materials: Look for materials made from recycled content, such as recycled glass or metal.
Low VOC Finishes: Choosing low-VOC or VOC-free finishes will help maintain the indoor air quality of your home.
Choosing eco-friendly materials can reduce your environmental impact and create a healthier indoor environment.
Can built-ins be moved or relocated in the future?
Built-ins are designed to be permanent fixtures, making them challenging to move or relocate. However, it’s not impossible. If you’re considering moving built-ins, keep these points in mind:
Cost: Relocating built-ins can be costly and may require significant modifications.
Damage: Moving built-ins can result in damage to both the built-ins and the surrounding structure.
Professional Help: It is often wise to enlist the help of a professional to ensure the built-ins are moved safely and correctly.
While built-ins are intended to be permanent, with the right approach and professional assistance, they can often be relocated if necessary.
How do built-ins compare to freestanding furniture in terms of cost and functionality?
Built-ins and freestanding furniture each have their own advantages and disadvantages:
Cost: Built-ins generally have a higher upfront cost due to their custom nature and installation process. However, they offer the ability to perfectly match the building materials to the application, potentially making them longer-lasting and therefore more cost-effective in the long run.
Functionality: Built-ins are tailored to your specific needs, providing optimal storage and organization. Freestanding furniture offers flexibility and can be easily moved or replaced.
Aesthetics: Built-ins create a seamless, integrated look, while freestanding furniture can be mixed and matched to suit changing tastes.
Ultimately, the choice between built-ins and freestanding furniture depends on your budget, needs, and design preferences.
Can built-ins be used to create a home office or study area?
Yes, built-ins are an excellent solution for creating a home office or study area. Here’s how they can enhance these spaces:
Desks: Custom desks can be designed to fit the available space and include features like built-in drawers, shelves, and cable management.
Shelving: Ample shelving can provide storage for books, files, and office supplies, keeping the workspace organized.
Storage Cabinets: Built-in cabinets offer concealed storage for a tidy, uncluttered look.
Ergonomic Design: Built-ins can be tailored to your ergonomic needs, ensuring a comfortable and productive workspace.
A well-designed built-in home office or study area can improve efficiency and make working from home more enjoyable.
What are the latest trends in custom built-ins?
Custom built-ins continue to evolve, with new trends emerging to enhance functionality and aesthetics. Some of the latest trends include:
Multi-Functional Spaces: Built-ins that serve multiple purposes, such as a desk that converts into a dining table or a bookshelf with hidden storage.
Minimalist Design: Sleek, minimalist designs with clean lines and integrated lighting for a modern look.
Bold Colors and Finishes: Vibrant colors and unique finishes, like matte black or high-gloss lacquer, to make a statement.
Integrated Technology: Built-ins with integrated tech features, such as charging stations, built-in speakers, and smart home controls.
Sustainable Materials: Increasing use of eco-friendly and sustainable materials in custom built-ins.
These trends reflect a growing emphasis on versatility, innovation, and sustainability in home design.
How can built-ins improve organization and storage in my home?
Built-ins are designed to maximize space and improve organization. Here are some ways they can enhance storage in your home:
Custom Closets: Tailored closet systems with adjustable shelves, drawers, and hanging rods to accommodate your wardrobe.
Kitchen Storage: Built-in pantry shelves, pull-out cabinets, and integrated appliance storage for a clutter-free kitchen.
Living Room: Entertainment centers with concealed wiring, bookshelves with built-in lighting, and storage benches for additional seating and storage.
Bathroom: Vanities with drawer organizers, linen closets with adjustable shelving, and built-in medicine cabinets.
Entryway: Mudroom built-ins with cubbies, hooks, and benches to keep shoes, coats, and bags organized.
Custom built-ins can be designed to meet your specific needs, making every room in your home more functional and organized.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when planning built-ins?
To ensure your built-in project is a success, avoid these common mistakes:
Lack of Planning: Failing to plan properly can result in built-ins that don’t meet your needs or fit the space.
Ignoring Functionality: Prioritizing aesthetics over functionality can lead to impractical storage solutions.
Poor Material Choices: Choosing low-quality or inappropriate materials can affect the durability and appearance of the built-ins.
Overlooking Electrical Needs: Failing to plan for electrical outlets and wiring can limit the functionality of built-ins in areas like home offices and entertainment centers.
Not Hiring a Professional: Attempting a DIY built-in project without the necessary skills and experience can result in poor-quality work and costly mistakes.
Working with a professional and thoroughly planning your project can help you avoid these pitfalls and achieve the desired outcome.
How do built-ins enhance the aesthetic appeal of my home?
Built-ins can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home by providing a seamless, cohesive look. Here’s how:
Custom Fit: Built-ins are designed to fit perfectly in your space, eliminating gaps and creating a polished appearance.
Matching Finishes: You can choose materials and finishes that match your home’s decor, ensuring a harmonious look.
Integrated Design: Built-ins can incorporate design elements like crown molding, lighting, and decorative hardware to enhance their visual appeal.
Decluttered Spaces: Built-ins provide ample storage, helping to keep your home tidy and free of clutter, which enhances the overall aesthetic.
By blending functionality with design, built-ins can elevate the look of any room in your home.
Can built-ins be designed for specific needs, like a library or entertainment center?
Yes, built-ins can be customized to meet specific needs and functions, such as:
Library: Custom bookshelves with adjustable shelves, integrated lighting, and ladder systems for easy access to books.
Entertainment Center: Built-in media units with space for a TV, sound system, gaming consoles, and storage for DVDs and accessories.
Home Office: Desks, filing cabinets, and shelving designed to create a productive and organized workspace.
Craft Room: Built-ins with storage for supplies, workstations, and display areas for finished projects.
Mudroom: Functional storage solutions like benches, cubbies, and hooks for organizing shoes, coats, and bags.
Custom built-ins can be tailored to any specific need, enhancing the functionality and enjoyment of your home.
What are some creative uses for built-ins in underutilized spaces?
Built-ins can transform underutilized spaces into functional and attractive areas. Here are some creative ideas:
Under Stairs: Built-in storage or a cozy reading nook under the staircase.
Window Seats: Window seats with built-in storage beneath for a charming and practical addition to any room.
Hallways: Narrow built-ins for books, display items, or additional storage in hallways.
Attics and Basements: Custom built-ins to make the most of sloped ceilings and awkward spaces in attics and basements.
Closets: Built-in organizers to maximize storage in small or oddly shaped closets.
These creative uses of built-ins can turn previously wasted spaces into valuable and enjoyable parts of your home.
Are built-ins the right choice for me?
Custom built-ins are a versatile and valuable addition to any home. From enhancing storage and organization to improving aesthetic appeal, built-ins offer numerous benefits. By working with a skilled contractor and carefully planning your project, you can create beautiful, functional built-ins that meet your specific needs and elevate your living space.
Whether you’re looking to add a cozy reading nook, a sophisticated entertainment center, or a highly functional home office, custom built-ins can make your vision a reality. Embrace the possibilities and transform your home with expertly designed and crafted built-ins.
Ready to get started on your built-ins? Reach out for a free consultation to discuss how we can help you transform your Exeter, NH home with beautiful built-ins perfectly customized to your needs and style!