How to Get a “Built-In” Look with IKEA Billy Bookcases: 9 Tips

If you’re like me, you appreciate the timeless beauty of built-in bookcases but might not have the budget to hire a professional carpenter. Luckily, there’s a wallet-friendly solution that’s a proven solution – IKEA’s Billy Bookcases.

These versatile shelves can help you achieve that coveted “built-in” look without breaking the bank. As someone planning to embark on this DIY journey myself, I’ve scoured the web to find the best tips on how to get a “built-in”” look with Ikea Billy bookcases.

The final look we’re hoping for is something like what Meg Leonard shared on her blog. The bookcases will flank the French doors leading to our new guest room/ office combo.

So, let’s dive in to these 9 tips to help turn ordinary bookshelves into a stunning built-in masterpiece. I’m also including photos of amazing “built-in” Ikea Billy Bookcase projects to inspire you!

1. Planning is Key

Before you start assembling Billy bookcases, take a moment to plan your design. Consider factors like the size of your space, the placement of electrical outlets, and any architectural features you want to highlight or hide. Sketch out your design and take measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Remember, planning upfront can save you headaches later.

For us, taking our time to plan has revealed that we will need two different sizes of Billy bookcases for the wall we will use for our “built-ins”.

IKEA offers various sizes and styles of Billy bookcases, so pick the ones that best match your vision. If you want a seamless built-in look, it’s essential to choose the tallest bookcases that will fit comfortably in your space. This maximizes storage and creates a more grandiose appearance. Also, consider whether you prefer glass doors, solid doors, or open shelves, as this choice will impact the final look.

2. Secure Them to the Wall

Safety first! Whether you have kids, pets, or simply want to ensure your bookshelves stay in place, anchoring them to the wall is essential. Don’t just use wall anchors and brackets provided by IKEA to secure your Billy bookcases. For a true built-in look, you need to build a wood base and then you will position the shelves on the top of the base. This step is crucial for stability and safety.

Love and Renovations has excellent photos and step-by-step guidance on making this base. Check out their primed shelves on top of the base below.

3. Create a Seamless Appearance

To make your Billy bookcases blend seamlessly with your wall, paint the back panels the same color as your wall. This small detail can work wonders in achieving that built-in look. It will also make your books and decorative items pop against the backdrop.

In the House of David really knocked it out of the park with this “seamless” appearance tip. The colors of the back wall, trim, shelves, and couch envelop anyone who is sitting in this beautiful room.

Pro-tip: make sure you read up all about how to paint the Billy bookcase material. Domino has great tips about priming and painting these bookcases. Check that out HERE.

4. Trim it Out

One of the most effective ways to make your Billy bookcases look custom-built is by adding trim. Use crown molding along the top and baseboards along the bottom to create a polished, cohesive appearance. You can find various styles of trim at your local home improvement store, so choose one that matches your overall design.

Perhaps the coolest tutorial for a “built-in” Billy bookcase is from Peony and Honey. Her YouTube video shows the whole process, but check out the trim she uses at around 17:30.

5. Customize the Shelves

Billy bookcases come with adjustable shelves, allowing you to tailor them to your specific needs. Depending on what you plan to store, adjust the height of the shelves accordingly. This customization not only maximizes functionality but also adds to the illusion of custom-built shelving.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but take some time to try out jars, books, décor items that you plan to display to see how much room you will need.

6. Add Lighting

For that extra touch of elegance, consider adding lighting inside your Billy bookcases. LED strip lights or puck lights can illuminate your books and décor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This is especially effective if you have glass-fronted Billy bookcases.

If you’re not keen on adding lighting inside the bookcases, consider wall-mounted sconces or picture lights above the shelves. These not only provide functional lighting but also add a touch of sophistication to your built-in setup.

I’m obsessed with Life with Leanne‘s “built-in” Billy bookcase project. Everything from the color, styling, and subtle trim is perfect. But maybe the best tip is battery-operated sconces that she used to complete these built-ins.

7. Conceal Exposed Hardware, Cords, and Cables

To give your bookcases a seamless, professional appearance, hide any exposed hardware. You can do this by using wood filler to cover screw holes and then painting over them. This small step will make a big difference in the final result.

Lovely Etc. shares a post about how she used spackle to make the shelf adjuster holes disappear.

If you plan to place electronic devices on your shelves, like a TV or stereo system, think about how to hide the cords and cables. You can use cable management solutions or strategically place decorative objects to conceal them.

8. Incorporate a Ladder

For a truly grand built-in library feel, consider adding a rolling library ladder. Not only is it practical for reaching high shelves, but it also adds a touch of old-world charm to your space.

Making it With Abby used a natural finish on the ladder that she installed with her “built-in” Billy bookcase. What a fresh look!

9. Keep it Cohesive

Maintain a cohesive look throughout your space by using the same paint colors, hardware, and design elements elsewhere in the room. This ensures that your Billy bookcases blend seamlessly with the overall aesthetic. I love the green that We the Dreamers used in their project. Even though the green in the shelf and the couch aren’t exact matches, they are in the same color family, so the look stays cohesive. Check it out below.

Finally, don’t be afraid to seek inspiration from others who have tackled similar projects. There are countless online communities, blogs, and social media platforms dedicated to DIY home projects. You can find plenty of ideas, tips, and even step-by-step tutorials from those who have successfully created their own built-in bookcases using Billy bookcases.

As my husband and I plan out this “built-in” Billy bookcase project, we’re excited that it is not just about saving money; it’s about creating a space that reflects our style and personality. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your tools, and get ready to turn those Billy bookcases into a custom-built masterpiece that you’ll be proud to call your own.

Happy DIY-ing!