Stylish Storage Solutions for Your Home
Judie Docs, Executive Officer – CSP, MCSP, CGP, CMP, MIRM
North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA) ncbia.com
There are plenty of bins, boxes, and bags to purchase to help organize your home. But, if you’re looking for a stylish alternative to temporary storage, consider adding built-in units to your home. Built-ins are permanent features installed in a home that can add charm and provide additional storage space for homeowners.
Some popular options for built-ins include bookshelves, cabinets, desks, entertainment centers, and window seats. The cost of built-in cabinets depends on the materials used, the space’s size, and the design’s complexity. Still, because built-ins often negate the need to purchase particular furniture, they can be economical.
Given the variety of styles, finishes, and uses, built-ins can be a smart choice for many design projects. Generally, there are three types of built-ins:
- Custom built-ins. These are made to order and designed and constructed specifically for a particular space in your home. They are typically the most expensive option but offer the most flexibility regarding design, materials, and finishes.
- Semi-custom built-ins. This option is pre-designed and pre-constructed but can be somewhat modified. It is generally more affordable than custom built-ins, but it is available in fewer designs, materials, and finishes.
- Pre-fab built-ins. This choice is pre-designed, pre-constructed, and pre-fabricated and can be installed in whatever space or room is desired. Pre-fab built-ins are the most affordable option, but designs, materials, and finishes are limited.
With many choices for material, there is plenty of opportunity to make built-ins fit with the look and feel of any space. The most common materials are:
- Drywall: This relatively inexpensive material is easy to work with. Once completed, drywall can be painted the same color as the walls, creating a seamless transition.
- Glass: Often used as a component in built-ins, glass works well for floating shelves, display cases, or cabinets to give a sense of airiness and spaciousness.
- Laminate: This budget-friendly alternative to wood is available in a wide range of colors and patterns to mimic the look of wood, stone, or other materials, providing endless possibilities.
- Metal: Examples include stainless steel or aluminum, which can be used for modern and industrial-style built-ins and are often seen in contemporary kitchens, home offices, or libraries.
- Wood: A classic and versatile material for built-ins, wood can be stained or painted to match the existing decor.
Built-ins can change the look and feel of a space while providing essential storage, display, and/or workspaces. Available in various types and materials, the best built-ins match your home’s style, budget, and functional needs. Contact the NCBIA for a list of remodeling and home design professionals to help with your next project.
We are your local not-for-profit trade association representing member companies involved in all aspects of home building, remodeling, and other services available to help you in the future, and more information on the above topic. So, you can see that you use an NCBIA member for your protection. If you are unsure that your contractor is a member of the NCBIA or you are looking for a list of NCBIA members, you can visit our website at www.ncbia.com or call 440-934-1090. We also have a job posting board (under the Industry tab).
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