Hi! I'm trying to come up with something to put between my kitchen and living room to create some separation for the spaces. It doesn't necessarily need to close it off completely, but I don't mind if it does either. I tried a 5×5 Kallax from Ikea with their 3D tool, and I don't hate it, but the cubes make it uninteresting and a bit "kid room" for me. I was thinking the natural color if I did that. Have also considered a black cabinet with wallpaper on the back. I also thought about a really big plant stand. I want it to come out about as far as the yoga mat for reference, so two side by side shelves is also an idea. Sometimes I think I'd like a backing, but those kinds of shelves seem to need anchored. Eventually the room will be decorated with a light brown couch, either walnut or acorn MCM style TV stand, and pops of black, green, and teal. TIA!
by destinedtoroam
3 Comments
I like the cube bookshelf and I think it won’t look childish as long as you fill it with actual books and some plants and a minimal number of other interesting things. You could fill the bottom row with wicker or fabric storage cubes for a little visual interest (and secret storage). A solid bottom row will anchor the bookshelf so it feels more intentional and grounded in the space with the added bonus of making all the open cubes above look less busy.
And if you use books, stagger which way the spines face so you never feel like you’re looking at the back of a bookshelf. Make it look intentional.
Not sure you need a divider. I would try area rugs to denote zones first. Lovely flow and very calming colors.
Look at Hooker Furniture -they make some open back bookcases & etegeres that have more interest. Some are narrow so you could stack two together, others are wider. Try searching these terms- “bunching bookcase open back” “open back wall unit” “open etegere” “floating open back bookcase” you’ll find lots of different styles with more details, warmer woods etc.