By definition “furniture” is generally understood to mean movable pieces, however we use this term when referring to built-ins since this type of construction serves dual purposes. Serving as both architectural features as well as functional furniture, built-in furniture has been around for a long, long time dating back to the Middle Ages. But even though it has been around for centuries, the concept remains as popular as ever and can be a wonderful customization for your home.
Examples of built-in furniture include wall benches, shelving and cupboards, bookcases, mirrors, entertainment centers, window seats, closets, and even intricate fireplace mantels. These days, it is not uncommon to see built-ins in older homes, especially those from the late 1800’s to the 1960’s. But, built-ins are gaining popularity again and you’ll see them in newer construction homes as well. Classic examples in modern architecture include bookcases and large entertainment centers, shelving built into the walls surrounding either a fireplace or a space on the wall where you can place a television. We’re also seeing built-in shelves in areas like hallways and entryways where you can display your treasures, family portraits, etc. If your home has built-ins already, some things to consider is the upkeep. Depending on the finish of your built-ins, you may need to periodically repaint or varnish to maintain the luster of the wood. You’ll also want to check longer shelves to make sure they’re not sagging. If they are, consider replacing the sections with newer materials designed to withstand heavier objects. Benefits of built-ins include the ability to take advantage of typically unused storage space giving you more room for your belongings, they create beautiful focal points for the rooms in which they are located, they can create more floorspace since some are actually recessed into the walls, and you can use them to create stunning displays of all your favorite things. If your home does not have built-ins and you’d like to add them, you have a wide array of options from which to choose. From low-cost configurable solutions (think IKEA) to high-end custom woodwork, there is a solution for nearly every budget. Get creative and think outside the box. Built-ins can offer endless storage solutions and help create a beautiful floor-to-ceiling aesthetic. You can think of them as a part of your interior design, not just furniture. If you’re not sure where to begin, we can help. At Fort Rock Construction, we’ve been assisting homeowners in the Eugene, Oregon area with home remodels, including built-ins, since 2001. Please contact us today at 541-767-1611 to see how we can help you, too.
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If you’re considering a remodel for your home, you’ll want to keep your storage needs in mind. Whether its a kitchen or bathroom remodel, it’s easy to get swept up in style of the room vs. the functionality. Planning ahead to add storage into your design makes the space more useful for you now and helps if you later decide to sell. Here are a few ideas for bringing more storage into your kitchen or bathroom remodel.
Cabinetry Cabinets today are not bound by the same restrictions of generations past. Today’s cabinetry comes with a wide range of storage solutions designed with ease of access. In the kitchen, for example, you can get cabinets with large drawer systems to store your pots and pans and other countertop appliances. Now, instead of getting on your hands and knees and stretching to the back of the cupboard, you can pull open the drawer and your items are right there for you. Built-In lazy susans and retractable shelving systems are available for the typically underutilized corner spaces, too. In the bathroom, look for cabinets that make good use of the space around the sink plumbing. Often this space is ignored and you’re left with a big awkward space. A simple solution to make the most of the space under the sink is to bring in sliding organizers like those typically seen in your office. You can fill each one with like items and simply pull out the one you need. Ideas include filling one with cleaning items, one with hair styling items, one with hygiene products, etc. You can also buy expandable shelves that fit around the plumbing. Shelving Shelving can help when you need certain items easily accessible on a regular basis. Think about places where this might occur most often such as near the kitchen sink or stove, the kitchen island, the bathroom sink, and the bathtub. Look for shelving that complements the design of your cabinetry to create a consistent style. Also, make sure the shelving you select gives you enough depth for holding a variety of items so you’re not limited on what you can display. Seating When it comes to storage, seating isn’t often the first thing considered but there is lots of space that can be used. A couple easy ways to add storage include selecting benches or chairs with lift tops. You can easily store less frequently used items here like seasonal table place settings and tablecloths, booster cushions for younger guests, etc. You can also look at choosing barstools that nest or tuck under your countertop. This makes your space more streamlined and creates an open feeling. Built-Ins Popular in older homes and making a comeback in newer homes, built-ins offer great storage and functionality. Whether it’s pocket storage in the bathroom walls for your perfumes, makeup, shaving goods, etc. or a built-in buffet in your dining area for your China and serving dishes, every inch is available for your use in a beautiful and stylish way. At Fort Rock Construction, we’ve been helping homeowners in the Eugene, Oregon area with kitchen remodels and bathroom remodels since 2001. Please contact us at 541-767-1611 today to see how we can help you, too. |
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