Custom Built-In Bookshelves & Libraries
in Olympia & Shelton

Custom built-in bookshelf pricing depends on linear footage, height, and material choices. Average projects range from $3,000 to $10,000+, with paint-grade built-ins starting at $450 per linear foot and stain-grade hardwood starting at $700 per linear foot. This investment adds significant value to your home equity—quality built-ins are a sought-after feature that buyers notice.

Fireplace surround built-ins are priced based on several factors: the complexity of the mantel integration, your material choice (paint-grade vs. stain-grade hardwood), and any electrical work for integrated lighting. Simple flanking bookcases start around $4,500, while elaborate floor-to-ceiling library walls with custom mantels can exceed $15,000. We provide detailed quotes after an in-home consultation.

Not with our construction methods. We engineer shelf thickness specifically for long spans, using solid wood edging for structural rigidity. Our shelves are rated for heavy book loads—typically 50-75 pounds per linear foot. We back this with a 10-year warranty against shelf warping. The key is proper span calculation: we never build shelves longer than the material can support.

Absolutely—this is one of our specialties. We can custom grind knives to replicate historic profiles found in older Olympia and South Capitol neighborhood homes. If your home features old-growth wood species, we can source matching materials. Our artisan finish matching techniques can even replicate the aged patina of original millwork for a seamless appearance.

Standard depth for novels and typical hardcovers is 11-12 inches. For oversized art books, vinyl records, or media equipment, we recommend 15+ inches. The beauty of custom is that we can vary depths within the same unit—deeper shelves at the bottom for large items, shallower ones at eye level for standard books, and adjustable options throughout.

Yes, home office built-ins are among our most requested projects. We can integrate desks, filing cabinet drawers, printer storage, and tech-ready cable routing for a clean, organized workspace. Many clients combine bookshelf walls with a built-in desk nook, creating a cohesive library-office that maximizes their space.

It depends on your aesthetic and budget. Stain-grade woods like Oak, Cherry, or Walnut showcase beautiful natural grain and work well in traditional or craftsman-style homes. Paint-grade materials (Poplar or high-quality MDF-core) offer a clean, modern look at a lower price point. Many of our clients choose a combination—stain-grade for prominent pieces, paint-grade for secondary elements.

From design approval to completion, expect 5-8 weeks total. Shop fabrication takes 3-5 weeks depending on complexity. On-site installation and trim work requires 2-4 days. If we're handling the painting or finishing, add another 2 days. We'll provide a specific timeline during your design consultation, and you can visit our Shelton shop to see your project in progress.