Arched Built-In Bookcases Made Easy: From Inspiration to Installation

Looking to add storage and style to your home? Built-in bookcases with arched details can turn empty walls into useful spaces while adding character to any room.

Like many homeowners, I wanted to add style and storage to my living space.

As someone who loves books and wants to make the most of every wall, I found that built-in bookcases with an arch design combine both beauty and function.

I’ll take you through my step-by-step process of creating these built-in bookcases. You’ll learn the exact measurements, tools needed, and building techniques I used.

From picking the right spot to installing the final shelf, this guide breaks down each part into clear, doable steps.

Ready to start making your own built-in bookcase? Let’s begin with the basics.

Why Choose an Arched Built-In Bookcase?

A built-in bookcase with arched details brings both beauty and function to your home. This combination of style and storage makes it a valuable addition to any room.

Let’s look at the key benefits that make this project worth your time and effort.

Design Benefits

The gentle curves of an arched bookcase help create a welcoming feel in any room.

Unlike straight lines and sharp angles, these smooth curves naturally draw attention and make the space more appealing.

The arch shape also adds depth to your walls, making rooms feel larger and more open.

When lit well, the arch creates subtle shadows that enhance the overall look of your space.

Functional Advantages

Built-in bookcases make the most of your wall space by providing organized storage from floor to ceiling.

Unlike standalone units, they don’t take up floor space and become part of your home’s structure. You can store books, display items, or hide everyday items in closed sections.

The depth can be customized to fit your needs, from shallow shelves for paperbacks to deeper ones for large items.

Style Versatility

An arched bookcase works well with many home styles:

• Traditional homes: Add classic trim and molding
• Modern spaces: Keep lines clean and minimal
• Country settings: Use natural wood and simple details
• Contemporary rooms: Paint in bold colors or neutrals

The basic arch shape stays the same, but materials and finishing touches help it match your home’s style perfectly.

DIY Guide: Building an Arched Built-in Bookcase

Materials and Tools for Arched Built-in Bookcase

Materials	Tools
12mm MDF sheets	Electric drill
18mm MDF	Router/trimmer
PVA wood glue	Circular saw
Wall brackets	Level
Wood screws	Measuring tape
Steel dowels	Pencil
Primer	Screwdriver
Paint	Router bits
Wood filler	Air nailer (optional)
Sandpaper	Paint roller
Safety glasses	Paintbrush
Dust mask	Clamps
Work gloves	Work table
Ear protection	Drop cloth
Stud finder	Wood chisel
Spirit level
Marking gauge

• Begin by taking exact measurements of your wall space. 
• Make a list of the basic tools you’ll need.
• Look at your wall and count the studs. 
• Finally, plan how far apart each shelf should be. 

Step 2: Building the Frame

• Put first side panel against the wall
• Fix wall brackets into studs
• Check frame is exactly level
• Keep front edge lined up with wall
• Put in shelf support points
• Double-check all parts are straight

Step 3: Creating Shelves

• Cut MDF to your shelf sizes
• Put glue on both MDF pieces
• Press and pin pieces tight
• Wait 24 hours for glue to set
• Make front edges smooth
• Add support blocks inside frame
• Test each shelf fits right

Step 4: Making the Arch

• Mark arch center point clearly
• Fix router guide in place
• Make first light pass with router
• Cut deeper in small steps
• Keep checking curve shape
• Test arch fits your frame
• Sand arch edges neat

Step 5: Finishing Up

• Check all parts one last time
• Fill any small gaps
• Sand whole unit smooth
• Clean off dust fully
• Put on primer coat
• Paint in thin layers
• Let each coat dry well

Note: Take time between steps to check your work. Better to go slow than make mistakes.

If you want to know about this DIY in depth, then click here.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Making a choice between building your own arched bookcase or getting help from a skilled carpenter depends on your skills, time, and budget. Here’s what you need to know about each option to make the best choice for your project.

Aspect	DIY Approach	Hiring a Professional
Cost Benefits	Materials: $500-$1,500, No labor costs	Work: $2,000-$5,000+, Includes labor/materials
Time and Expertise	Requires time, basic woodworking skills	Fast completion, ideal for limited time/skills
Personal Control	Full control, flexible changes	Limited input, extra costs for mid-project changes
Skills Gained	Learn woodworking, boost confidence	No skills gained, professional finish
What You Get	Satisfaction, unique design	Expert craftsmanship, fast, high-quality finish

Design Inspiration for Arched Built-In Bookcases

Each style of arched built-in bookcase brings its own special look to your space. Here are few design themes to help you choose what fits your home best.

Style Ideas

1. Minimalist Designs

A minimalist arched bookcase brings a fresh, light feel to any room.

Clean white or soft neutral colors make the space feel open and bright.

The shelves look like they float on the wall, with thin edges and hidden supports.

Simple trim keeps the focus on the clean lines and arch shape.

Equal spaces between shelves create a sense of order, while careful placement of just a few items keeps the look tidy.

This style works well in small spaces, modern homes, and rooms with plenty of sunlight.

2. Rustic Charm

Rustic arched bookcases add a warm, lived-in feel to your space.

Natural woods like pine, oak, or maple show off their grain patterns and knots, telling their own story.

Hand-rubbed stains bring out the wood’s natural beauty, while iron or bronze hardware adds a simple, solid touch.

Thick wooden shelves hold books and items with strength and style.

This casual, open design fits perfectly in country-style homes, family rooms, or cozy reading spots.

3. Contemporary Elegance

Contemporary arched bookcases blend smart storage with refined style.

Clear glass doors protect items while showing them off, and brushed metal handles add a modern touch.

Deep colors like navy, charcoal, or black create a bold statement.

Small lights above the shelves highlight special items, while a mix of open and closed storage keeps things neat.

These bookcases look great in city homes, offices, or any room where you want to show off art and books with style.

4. Traditional Designs

Traditional arched bookcases bring lasting beauty and function together.

Made from fine woods like maple or cherry, they feature detailed trim work and raised panel doors.

Brass or copper handles add classic shine, while built-in cabinets below offer extra storage.

Deep shelves hold large books easily, and the overall design fits beautifully in older homes, studies, or formal rooms.

This style works best where you want to create a timeless look that holds lots of books and precious items.

Room-Specific Ideas

1. Living Room

Make your main room stand out by adding arched bookcases that bring style and storage together. The right placement and features can turn these units into a key part of your room’s design while keeping things tidy and organized.

Key features to include:

• Matching bookcases on both sides of fireplaces or TVs
• Open top shelves for art pieces and photos
• Bottom cabinets for games, blankets, and media items
• Middle sections for books and smaller items
• Small lights to highlight items
• Colors that match your room’s main theme

2. Home Office

Turn your work area into a space that boosts focus and keeps everything in its place. A well-planned bookcase behind your desk can make work easier while looking good.

Key features to include:

• Full-height bookcase behind the desk
• Top shelves for important books
• Middle sections for file holders and work items
• Bottom storage for office supplies and tech gear
• Desk-height pullout shelves
• Neutral colors that help concentration

3. Bedroom

Create a quiet corner that helps you unwind and enjoy your private space. The right bookcase design can add both style and function without making the room feel crowded.

Key features to include:

• Placement near windows or beside beds
• Soft, calming colors
• Reading lights built into shelves
• Spaces sized for books and personal items
• Lower drawers for extra bedding
• Open areas to maintain airiness

4. Hallways and Entryways

Make the most of narrow spaces with smart storage solutions. Even small areas can become more useful with the right bookcase design.

Key features to include:

• Slim designs that keep paths clear
• Small shelves for keys and mail
• Lower sections for shoes and bags
• Display areas for plants and art
• Built-in seating where space permits
• Good lighting to brighten the space

Each room needs its own approach to make the most of arched bookcases. The key is matching the design to how you’ll use the space.

Styling Tips for Arched Built-In Bookcases

Make your bookcase look well-planned and useful with these styling tips:

Arranging Your Shelves

Balance Basics:

• Start with larger books on lower shelves to build a solid base.
• Mix standing and lying books to create visual interest.
• A good rule is to keep about 20% of shelf space clear – this stops shelves from looking stuffed.
• Group similar items in threes, as this helps create a natural flow.
• When you sort books by size or color, it makes the whole display look more organized.
• Space your items with equal gaps to keep things looking neat.

Design Rule of Thirds:

• Think of each shelf as having three equal sections.
• Put your main items where these sections meet – it’s a simple trick that makes displays look better. In each section, use items of different heights.
• Keep heavier things near the edges of shelves, with lighter items in the middle.
• This creates balance and makes your display more interesting to look at.

Decor Accessories

Natural Elements:

• Small plants can bring life to your shelves – just make sure they get enough light.
• Try dried flowers in clear vases for lasting color.
• Simple stones or interesting wood pieces add texture.
• Air plants are great because they need little care.
• Woven baskets help hide items while adding natural warmth.
• Natural fibers like jute or hemp can add subtle texture.

Personal Touches:

• Show off your family photos in nice frames.
• Include small art pieces that mean something to you.
• If you collect items, pick your favorites to display.
• Things from your travels can tell stories.
• Handmade items add a special touch.
• Keep your favorite books where you can easily reach them.

Seasonal Changes:

• For spring, use fresh flowers and bright items.
• In summer, beach finds and light colors work well.
• Fall calls for textured items in warm shades.
• Winter is perfect for cozy items and gentle lighting.
• Change your photo frames with the seasons.
• Use baskets to store seasonal items until you need them.

Color and Finish Options

Light Colors:

• Pure white fits anywhere and makes spaces feel clean.
• Cream adds warmth without being too bold.
• Soft gray works well in newer homes.
• Off-white matches older house styles.
• Light colors help rooms feel bigger and make displayed items stand out better.

Deep Colors:

• Rich blue makes shelves feel deeper.
• Dark gray looks sophisticated.
• Forest green brings a natural feel inside.
• Black makes display items pop.
• Deep colors hide shelf lines.
• Bold paint choices make strong style statements.

Mixed Colors:

• Try white arches with colored shelves inside.
• Paint the outside light and inside dark.
• Add color to back walls while keeping shelves white.
• Mix wood and paint for interest.
• Use different colors to mark different shelf uses.
• Make spaces stand out with color contrasts.

Product Options for Pre-Built Arched Bookcases

A guide to ready-made arched bookcase options that fit different budgets and styles:

Popular Retail Options

Budget-Friendly ($100-$500): These starter options work well for basic needs:

• Target Carson line: $150-300, MDF build, white finish (approximate)
• Walmart Better Homes: $200-400, particle board, multiple colors (approximate)
• Amazon Basics: $180-350, laminate finish, simple design (approximate)
• IKEA Billy with arch add-on: $250-450, white or wood finish (approximate)

Mid-Range ($500-$1500): Better quality materials and construction:

• Pottery Barn arched units: $800-1200, solid wood parts (approximate)
• Crate & Barrel options: $700-1400, hardwood frame (approximate)
• West Elm designs: $600-1300, mixed materials (approximate)
• Wayfair custom size units: $500-1200, various finishes (approximate)

Premium ($1500+): High-end materials and craftsmanship:

• Ethan Allen built-ins: $2000-4000, solid wood (approximate)
• Restoration Hardware: $2500-5000, premium finishes (approximate)

Conclusion

Building and styling an arched bookcase brings both beauty and purpose to your home.

Whether you choose to build it yourself, hire a professional, or mix both approaches, your effort will result in a lasting addition to your living space.

Remember, the key is planning each step – from picking the right spot to choosing colors that match your style.

Even a simple arched bookcase can become special when you add your personal touches through careful shelf arrangement and meaningful decorations.

Ready to start your project? Take time to measure your space, set a budget that works for you, and gather the materials you’ll need.

If you’re unsure about any step, this guide is here to help you make informed choices.

Frequently Asked Question

Is it cheaper to build or buy an arched built-in bookcase?

Building costs $500-1,500 in materials, while pre-made units cost $2,000-5,000. DIY saves money if you have basic tools and skills.

Do built-in bookcases add value to a home?

Yes. Built-in bookcases typically return 60-80% of their cost when selling your home. They’re seen as permanent improvements that add storage and style.

How difficult is it to build an arched bookcase for a beginner?

Building basic arched bookcases needs simple woodworking skills. The arch is the hardest part. Start with pre-made arch templates if you’re new to woodworking.

What materials are best for building an arched bookcase?

Plywood for the main structure, solid wood for face frames, and MDF for the arch work well. These materials are stable and take paint nicely.

Can I modify an existing bookcase to add an arch?

Yes. You can add an arch to a straight bookcase using MDF or plywood. It takes careful measuring and cutting but costs less than building from scratch.