We've wanted to do some shelving units/desk in our family room for months. Or downstairs has a nice pantry, and a little closet that goes back under the stairs but there was no storage for our games, dvd's, office stuff, etc and it drove me crazy! To buy manufactured pieces from the store was ridiculously expensive, and we wanted something durable enough to tolerate the kids. I don't have many great "before pictures" but the room was definitely a hodge podge of cheap/broken/aged furniture that made it look cluttered no matter how "clean" it was.
The "Before's"
We discussed some plans for shelving with Marc's parents. They've done several built-ins so had a good knowledge of what works and what doesn't. I wanted built in bookshelves that went up high on both sides of the tv, but Marc didn't, so we compromised for a long, low unit for symmetry. Having cabinet doors was important to me (what use was the shelving if I couldn't hide the clutter I wanted to hide?) We both wanted white to really bring out the color in our room. With a trip to Home Depot, and some phone calls to some friends to borrow some tools, we got to work.
Monday, May 7th was day 1 of the project. The men had the wood cut and assembled in boxes within a couple of short hours. After lots of sanding, glueing, and prepping, we were able to get the painting started and things were coming together quickly! Deb and I worked hard to clear out the front room so we had space to put in the new furniture.
These pictures were taken by Lexi, they're not bad!
Tuesday, there were a few more trips to Home Depot. The shelves and cupboards were cut to size. More painting, sanding and polishing work. It was the boys' birthday so work was cut early to prepare for their dinner and party.
Wednesday, we applied a "top coat" to give it a little more gloss and protective layer. We had to sand down the doors a bit because the paint coats were a little too heavy and things weren't fitting exactly. Door handles and hinges were applied and we were able to bring in the units and install them together. The top was secured down, finishing edge applied then holes drilled into the top to accommodate all the cords from the tv, dvd player, computer, etc.
and ta-da! Doesn't it look gorgeous!
We were all completely shocked at how much it opens up our room instead of making it look smaller. We LOVE the white! It really makes the walls pop and I like the contrast with the black and silver of the tv and computer. I am so happy to have place for all the games, movies, and misc "stuff" that just piles up.
Thank you so much for sharing your talents, know-how and hard work with us Bob (and Deb!). We couldn't have done it without you!!
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1 comment:
That is amazing! Tell them to come to our house next.
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