Whoa, whoa, whoa, back up a second, those are BILLY bookcases?! (That’s what you’re thinking right now, isn’t it?) I get it; I did a double-take, too.
This built-in bookcase hack from Reddit user Floyd (u/DisastrousPipe8192) is next-level. I mean, it doesn’t even look like the same room when you see the finished product.
Granted, he also changed the flooring, furniture, and wall color, but the built-ins undoubtedly steal the show.
Floyd shared that he’s learned most of his home improvement skills from friends and the internet. “My wife and I gained a lot of inspiration from posts on here (Reddit) and a few other threads, and wanted to share what we accomplished.”
For someone who didn’t do a lot of DIY growing up, I’d say they have quite the knack for hacks.
What You’ll Need
- 4 IKEA BILLY bookcases (31 ½” x 11” x 79 ½”)
- 4 LED picture lights (16”)
- 4 Wall appliques
- Plinth blocks
- Smart dimmer switch
- 2 x 4s for base and verticals
- Think plywood for arches and panels
- Clamps
- Caulk
- Level
- BIN Shellac-based primer
- Paint
- Basics — tape measure, pencil, saw, screwgun, drill, screws, painting supplies
Creating a Brilliant BILLY Built-In With Arches
1. Prep the Room and Bookcases
Remove existing baseboards. Assemble the BILLY bookcases according to IKEA’s instructions.
Floyd remodeled the entire room; therefore, he removed all the trim and crown. He recommends that if you plan to reuse trim, label where it came from and the direction, so there’s no guesswork when you put it back.
2. Paint Side Walls If Necessary
If you plan to change your wall color, paint the walls now so you don’t have to cut in around the built-ins later. Obviously, you don’t need to bother with painting the wall that will be behind the bookcases.
3. Build the Base
Use 2x4s to build a base for the bookcases. The base lifts the shelves off the floor, leaving room for baseboards and trim. They also allow you to get that custom, built-in look. Ensure the base is perfectly level; otherwise, everything else will be off-kilter.
4. Position the BILLY Bookshelves
Mount a 12-foot 2×4 onto the wall behind the built-ins, making sure it’s screwed into the wall studs. Line up the BILLY bookshelves on top of the base, clamp them together first, then screw them together and into the base. Screw the BILLY bookcases into the 2×4.
Depending on your available space, you may need more or fewer bookcases; adjust your supplies and materials accordingly.
5. Run the Wiring
Floyd used hardwired lighting for this project, but you can use battery-powered options if you prefer. Run the wiring before closing anything in (hire an electrician if you’re not familiar with this side of DIY, and ensure everything is safe and to code).
Floyd also made a cutout in the back of one of the BILLY bookcases to include an accessible outlet. The finishing touch for the lighting was a smart dimmer switch that works with Alexa.
6. Add the Arches and Details
Measure and cut the framing arches to cover the shelves and give them their distinctive, high-end look. Floyd uses 2x4s on their sides as vertical framing.
He also used thin wood to fill any gaps, which he later covered with the trim. He advises against using joint compound in areas with extreme temperatures.
The horizontal and vertical trim and crown molding follow, with plinth blocks creating a polished, finished look. Finally, add the decorative wall appliques along the bottom.
7. Prime and Paint
Floyd’s not to panict panic when you inevitably notice your ceiling isn’t level. Use caulk to fill in all the seams and gaps between the trim and the ceiling and crown, etc.
Prime and paint using a paint sprayer for a smooth, professional finish (protect the surrounding area with drop cloths).
8. Install the Picture Lights
After the paint dries, install the picture lights, sit back, and admire your work.
Price for this hack: Approximately $1,100 (Bookcases $750, Wood $250, paint and supplies $100 — You could reduce costs with less expensive paint from Lowe’s or Home Depot. Floyd bought high-end paint from local stores.)
Making it More Upscale?
One commenter suggested replacing the standard IKEA backs on the bookcases with thin plywood or MDF for a more upscale finish. After going through all of this effort, it might be worth it to give the piece a little more of an upscale appearance.
But honestly, after adding paint, books, and decor, you likely would barely notice the backs that much. What do you think?
Make sure to follow Floyd, and don’t forget to check out his video where he goes over everything he did to bring this hack to life!
We love seeing everything creative hackers come up with when it comes to IKEA pieces! Do you have a project you’re proud of? Don’t forget to share it with us so we can showcase it on the site!
