How Much Do Built-In Bookshelves Cost?
Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about How Much Do Built-In Bookshelves Cost? and hope the blog can help you.
Built-in bookshelves add character and utility to a room, but what price can homeowners expect to pay? Built-in bookshelves cost from $1,290 to $4,420, with homeowners across the country spending an average of $2,853.
Highlights
- The typical cost range to add built-in bookshelves to a room is $1,290 to $4,420, with customers paying a national average of $2,853.
- Some of the main factors that affect the total cost include the type of material used, the size and style of the shelves, the location of the installation, and the cost of labor.
- Built-in bookshelves have numerous benefits, including the optimization of an existing space, multiple customization options, and integration into the design of the home.
- A handy homeowner may be able to complete this project themselves, but a professional can ensure the shelves are installed correctly and can handle weight without sagging or collapsing.
Dreaming of adding built-in bookshelves to your home?
Call a pro, sit back, and relax. Get free, no-commitment project estimates from furniture builders near you.
Built-in bookcases can add storage space and an area to showcase books, decorative items, and collectibles. Custom bookshelves are a permanent investment that can create a unique focal point to any room. How much do built-in bookshelves cost? According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, built-in bookshelves range from $1,290 to $4,420, with the national average price at $2,853. Homeowners can choose from premade bookshelves or custom built-in shelves. A DIY built-in bookshelf can cost as little as $400, and a custom floor-to-ceiling built-in bookshelf wall unit can cost more than $8,000. The overall project price depends on the bookshelf material, shelf size, shelf style, and the local labor costs to construct and install the built-in unit. From clean white built-in bookshelves to those made of dark wood or metal, there are styles and designs that can match any aesthetic.
Labor costs to install built-in bookshelves generally account for 70 to 80 percent of the overall project budget. The more difficult and complex the built-in bookshelf build and install, the more expensive the project. This guide will examine the important factors that affect built-in bookshelves cost, additional costs and considerations that can change the final price of the built-in bookshelf installation, the various materials that can be used for a built-in shelving unit, the advantages of having built-in bookshelves, and some frequently asked questions about built-in bookshelves and the installation process.
Factors in Calculating Built-In Bookshelves Cost
Having a built-in library is a goal for many homeowners. While the average cost to install built-in bookshelves ranges from $1,290 to $4,420, the overall price can vary from the national average of $2,853 due to some important factors. These can include the built-in bookshelf material type, shelf size, shelf style, local labor prices, and the installation location.
Material Type
No matter the type of built-in bookshelf ideas a homeowner may have, the material used to construct the built-in unit directly impacts the cost of the project. The cost of premade bookshelves usually starts at $150 per linear foot, and the price for custom-made built-ins runs from $150 to $1,200 or more per linear foot, depending on the overall design and the materials. Some budget-friendly materials include medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and plywood, while more expensive materials are wood, glass, marble, and wood/metal combinations. Each of these materials is discussed in a section below.
Shelf Size
Many homeowners decide to build shelving in recessed alcoves in the home or invest in built-ins around the TV to make the most of their space. The shelf size for these areas influences the price of the built-in unit. Deeper and larger shelves cost more than smaller ones, and wall units that include built-in shelves and cabinets will cost more than an open-shelving component.
Standard-size books can be stored on shelves that are between 10 and 12 inches deep, and smaller paperback books can be accommodated with 6- to 7-inch-deep shelves. Larger coffee- table books may require shelves that are 14 or more inches deep. If the space for the built-in unit has an awkward shape or unusual depth, a custom-made built-in bookshelf will typically be the best option. A professional contractor or carpenter will be able to measure the area correctly and provide an accurate estimate for the built-in bookshelf, depending on the material. When the time comes to arrange books, art, and decorative items in the unit, homeowners will want to be sure to follow the dos and don’ts of arranging a bookshelf.
Shelf Style
From built-in modern bookshelves to those that are a more rustic country style, there are many different types of built-in bookshelves. Prices depend on the size, material, and design of the built-in unit. Below are some popular styles of built-in bookshelves.
- Alcove built-in bookshelf style. Built-in bookshelves that surround a piece of furniture, such as a couch or a bed, create a cozy and welcoming space. The addition of recessed or subdued lighting can make the area a relaxed focal point in any room. This type of built-in bookshelf style is commonly used in bedrooms and living rooms, but it can create a dramatic entryway or dining-room wall.
- Double-wide built-in bookshelf style. Double-wide built-in bookshelves are created when two bookshelves are joined together with a permanent divider in the middle. This type of built-in style is commonly used to display books, decorative items, awards, art, and collectibles. These bookshelves can be custom-built to accommodate the space of the area.
- Library design built-in bookshelf style. Library style built-in bookshelves are connected together with flat trim and are arranged to create a passageway. Usually accompanied with a rolling ladder, this type of built-in unit utilizes wide and tall bookshelves to make the best use of space in an office, living room, or library area.
- Paneled built-in bookshelf style. Paneled-style built-in bookshelves are typically used in open-plan living areas to maximize the interior space for storage. This style of built-in unit is usually constructed of wood, and pine is a popular choice for a more rustic look.
- Shelf book-tower built-in bookshelf style. While this space-saving style is commonly used in living rooms and office areas, it can also be found in kitchens to store cookbooks. The taller version of this narrow built-in bookshelf style utilizes seven or more shelves and typically measures approximately 84 inches in height. These towers can be customized to use as many shelves as needed.
- Staircase-landing built-in bookshelf style. The staircase-landing built-in bookshelf style transforms areas that are not typically used for storage into a stylish space. If the landing is large enough, some homeowners like to create a cozy reading nook.
Labor
The cost of labor to build and install built-in bookcases varies depending on the size of the built-in unit and the material. The final labor prices are typically 70 to 80 percent of the project total, and a professional handyperson often charges between $30 and $130 an hour, depending on geographic location and experience level. Installing built-in units around pre-existing structures or installing floor-to-ceiling bookcases is more expensive than fitting shelves in a small alcove area. The labor prices include measuring, planning, designing, building, fitting, and installing the built-in bookshelf in its space. Small built-in bookshelves can take between 4 and 5 hours to install, while larger components can take 20 hours or longer. Custom-designed built-ins are typically more expensive than even the best bookshelves because of the time and effort that goes into the design and construction of the piece.
Your dream library or office is just a click away
Call a pro to build your bookshelves. Get free, no-commitment project estimates from furniture builders near you.
Installation Location
Where the built-in bookshelves are to be installed also influences the price of the project. Built-in shelves in many areas of the house can create much-needed storage space—from the kitchen pantry to the bedroom, and all the rooms in between. The overall built-in installation price varies according to the installation location, size, and construction material. Furthermore, the location may dictate additional customizations, such as cabinets, doors, lighting, drawers, or a built-in desk, all of which can increase the overall cost. Below are some of the common areas where built-in bookshelves are installed and the average price ranges.
| Built-In Bookshelf Installation Location | Typical Custom Built-In Price Range |
| Around a doorway | $800 to $3,000 |
| Around a fireplace | $500 to $5,000 |
| Around a headboard | $1,000 to $8,000 |
| In a kitchen | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| In a home office | $1,000 to $4,000 |
| In a kitchen pantry | $800 to $2,000 |
| Around a TV | $1,500 to $4,000 |
| Around a window | $2,000 to $8,000 |
- Around a doorway. Installing built-in bookshelves around a doorway can create storage in an area that is typically neglected. Making use of dead space can create a dramatic entryway to showcase books, artwork, and decorative items. Built-in bookshelves around a doorway can range in price from $800 to $3,000.
- Around a fireplace. Commonly used in Victorian homes, built-in bookshelves that surround a fireplace can put the spotlight on a vintage mantel. A small bookcase can cost about $500, while a larger built-in can cost $5,000 or more.
- Around a headboard. Installing built-in bookshelves around a headboard can create an architectural design that doubles as an eye-catching focal point and storage space. Homeowners can expect to pay between $1,000 and $8,000 to install built-in bookshelves around a headboard, depending on size and materials.
- In a kitchen. Built-in bookshelves in kitchens are popular with the open-shelving trend. They can be used as a way to store cookbooks and decorative kitchen items. These built-in units can cost from $1,000 to $5,000.
- In a home office. Built-in bookcases in a home office can transform the space from a utilitarian work area to a welcoming library. This addition can cost from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the size, materials, and additional customizations.
- In a kitchen pantry. Installing built-in shelves in a kitchen pantry costs from $800 to $2,000. The lower price range is due to many homeowners choosing a simple bare-bones design with minimal customizations.
- Around a TV. Having bookshelves built in around a TV creates an entertainment center area for storage and display. Larger bookshelves and floor-to-ceiling consoles will cost more to install, based on the material and style of the unit. This type of built-in can range in price from $1,500 to $4,000.
- Around a window. It’s common to see built-in bookshelves surrounding a window that has a bench seat to create a comfortable reading area. With the bonus addition of natural light, family members can sit and read in a cozy space. Installing built-in bookshelves around a window can cost from $2,000 to $8,000, with the price depending on size and materials.
Additional Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for built-in bookshelves cost, homeowners may find that there are additional price factors and considerations that can change the total installation cost. These can include the difference in price between premade and custom-made built-in bookshelves, preparation work and customizations, as well as painting and finishing costs.
Premade vs. Custom
Premade bookshelves typically cost about $150 per linear foot and can be found at a local home improvement store. Premade options are less expensive and are an excellent option for homeowners with a limited budget. Prefabricated bookshelves can be moved to different areas, but homeowners will want to be aware that they are usually made of cheaper materials and may not be very sturdy.
Custom built-in bookshelves are an investment that are designed for a specific space. These can range in price from $150 to $1,200 per linear foot, and floor-to-ceiling options can cost from $5,000 to $14,000.
Preparation Work
If the area where the built-in bookcase will be installed has crown molding, baseboards, or other flooring elements, those will need to be removed before installation. This adds more time and effort for the installer, regardless of whether it’s a contractor, carpenter, or one of the best handyman services, and it will increase the project total.
Customizations
Adding customizations to built-in bookshelves can personalize the space. By adding features like a sliding ladder, glass doors, built-in lighting, drawers, or crown molding, the built-in unit can blend in or become a bold focal point to the room. Below are some common customizations that can be added to built-in bookshelves and the average price ranges.
| Built-In Bookcase Customization Option | Average Price Range |
| Crown molding | $75 to $300 |
| Drawers | $100 to $250 |
| Glass doors | $100 to $200 per panel |
| Lighting | $20 to $30 per set of LED lights |
- Adding crown molding. Adding crown molding to built-in bookshelves can cost from $75 to $300, depending on the size of the project. Crown molding typically connects the top of the bookshelves to the ceiling and adds an elegant look to the built-in unit. Available in various styles and sizes, crown molding creates a decorative finish.
- Adding drawers. Installing drawers on the bottom of the built-in bookshelves creates storage for items that homeowners don’t want to display. The cost to add drawers can run from $100 to $250.
- Adding glass doors. The cost to add glass doors to built-in bookshelves depends on how many are needed and the size of the panels. Costing between $100 and $200 per panel, the doors are fitted to each shelving area as required. Adding glass doors can prevent excess dust from settling on books and decorative items.
- Adding built-in lighting. Strips of LED lights can be added to the inside of a built-in bookshelf for increased lighting. At a cost of $20 to $30 per set, LED lights are available in a variety of colors and they can be controlled with a switch or by remote control. The overall cost depends on how many lights are needed for the space.
Painting and Finishing
Painting built-in bookshelves can make the space stand out from the rest of the room or blend in to create a cohesive space. Depending on the size of the built-in unit, painting it can cost from $300 to $1,000, on average. Some contractors or carpenters may include the price of painting or staining the built-in with their total estimate, although others may not. For that reason, it’s always a good idea for a homeowner to confirm pricing before the project begins.
Built-In Bookshelves Cost by Material Type
When it comes to the overall built-in bookshelves cost, materials are one of the most significant factors. Medium-density fiberboard, or MDF, is the most budget-friendly option, with glass and marble as the most expensive. Below are the most common materials for built-in bookshelves and their average price ranges.
| Built-In Bookshelf Material | Average Price Range Per Linear Foot (Installed) |
| Glass | $750 to $1,200 |
| Hardwood | $500 to $1,000 |
| Marble | $800 to $1,300 |
| MDF | $150 to $400 |
| Metal | $450 to $800 |
| Metal and wood combination | $450 to $1,000 |
| Plywood | $150 to $500 |
Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
MDF, or medium-density fiberboard, is made from pressed wood fibers that are layered to prevent damage and warping from temperature fluctuations. While this material is an excellent choice for custom finishes because it accepts paint well, it may sag over time under the weight of heavy books. MDF works well for storing lighter books and decorative objects, but not large and weighty items. As a budget-friendly option, MDF costs from $150 to $400 per linear foot.
Glass
Glass built-in bookshelves usually have some type of metal or wood frame. At a cost of $750 to $1,200 per linear foot, glass is one of the more expensive material options. This delicate material requires careful installation, which drives up the overall price. Typically made from tempered glass, this type of built-in bookshelf is heavy and extremely fragile. Homeowners who have a contemporary modern design for their home may prefer the look of a glass built-in unit over other materials.
Build your dream library with the help of a pro
Get free, no-commitment project estimates from furniture builders near you.