Built In Shelf Dilemma

2 years ago

As part of our addition, we have a new space where our plan was to have a fireplace with TV above and built ins on either side. I’ve included a pic of the unfinished space below.

Given the pre-existing house structure, the built ins on the right side would have a max depth of about 6-7”, whereas on the left it is much deeper (approx 15”). So my question is- Will it look weird if the depth of the shelves on the right side are significantly more shallow? Or will placing objects on the shelves create somewhat of an optical illusion where it looks similar to those on the left?

As an alternative, my contractor and I discussed building out the left side to have the same shallow depth of the shelves so that it was consistent with the right, however the cabinet at the bottom could still be deep for storage, etc.

Obviously in an ideal world we would like to keep the left shelves deeper to maximize that space, but I am worried it will look strange if the two sides are not equal. Thoughts and suggestions please!

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Comments (12)

PRO
PPF.
2 years ago
What's going on the shelves?
npmom17
Original Author
2 years ago
I’m a minimalist. So probably decorative objects, vases, baskets etc. something like the below pic.
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PRO
PPF.
2 years ago
I’m a minimalist

Then do you need the 15" depth?

The cabinets on the right are 6" deep, 13" on the left. Depending on the lighting, you may see a difference as this image shows, where the back looks darker as it's more shaded.
npmom17
Original Author
2 years ago
I don’t necessarily think we need the depth. This is a great visual. Thank you! Gives me something to think about. My other thought was that do I just do away with the shelves all together and put a étagère in the left corner and call it a day. It is an open space that flows into another room.
PRO
Mark Bischak, Architect
2 years ago
I would opt for the optical illusion alternative. If anyone inquires about the variation in depth, just say. "Sshh! That is where the secret passage is."
npmom17
Original Author
2 years ago
Thank you both! OK sharing one more photo with another thought. Clearly I am very indecisive about the space. Below The picture of the wall to the right of the fireplace. Technically the shelves on the right would only extend about halfway across this wall so therefore it would be kind of sticking out as it’s not an enclosed space. I am worried that it might trying to force the shelves into the space? Would it be better to just frame out the mantle fireplace area more and perhaps do an accent color or some thing to enhance. Then leave the walls on either side open?
User
2 years ago
I suggest something like this, but flipped so the plain wall is on the right. I feel like one of the reasons why this works is because the FP and shelving are bumped out and the plain wall recedes:
PRO
PPF.
2 years ago
last modified: 2 years ago
Could you provide more info. A floor plan of the area would be helpful, as would images from further back showing more of the space instead of just the fireplace wall.

Nothing wrong with asymmetrical shelving either. Might have doors on left cabinets for enclosed storage and open shelves on the right from the fireplace to the corner.
Sharon Fullen
2 years ago
Rethink the TV over the fireplace if you want to avoid chronic chiropractic issues.
User
2 years ago
that fireplace doesn't have a hearth and is therefore low enough for a TV, as long as the OP installs it about 6" above -- which means no mantel.
palimpsest
2 years ago
We have a Lot of books, so the deeper side in our house holds the bigger books like art books and coffee table books and the shallower side holds smaller books.
strategery
2 years ago
There are few things worse than a TV which is placed too high. Consider a relatively low mounted flush fireplace without that surround. Just put builtins on the sides.