This project was built and designed by Sam Macy. It’s a custom walk-in bookcase that fits seamlessly into an empty closet, offering both storage and style in a compact space.
By building to the dimensions of the room, Sam created a solution that maximizes every inch. The result is a practical, beautiful shelving unit tailored to fit the space perfectly.
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Planning and Materials
The first step in the build was selecting sheet goods suitable for the shelves and frame. Sam aimed for shelf depths between 8 and 10 inches to accommodate different types of books and fit the closet layout.
Initial cuts were made at the home improvement store to make the boards easier to handle and transport. Breaking them down into more manageable sections also made the next steps more efficient.
Once home, the boards were cross-cut to size based on the actual closet dimensions. Because the walls weren’t perfectly square, each shelf was marked and trimmed individually for a snug fit.
Building the Bookcase Structure
Pocket holes were drilled to join the sides and back panels of the bookcase. This method provided strong, concealed joinery while allowing for clean lines on the visible sides.
To give the plywood a polished appearance, Sam applied edge banding along the front-facing edges. Iron-on edge banding combined with careful trimming created a clean finish that matched the professional look of solid wood.
After banding, each piece was lightly sanded to remove rough spots and help blend in any minor imperfections. Sanding between steps also helped prepare the surfaces for the final finish.
Finishing the Surfaces
For the finish, Sam chose a water-based polyurethane to protect the wood without altering its color too much. This was especially useful for lighter wood tones like birch or maple, where yellowing is a concern.
Multiple thin coats were applied, with light sanding in between to maintain a smooth surface. The finish added durability and helped highlight the clean lines of the build.
Installing the Shelving
Installation started by marking shelf locations directly on the closet wall. Since the shelves would support a lot of weight, Sam used heavy-duty wall brackets for added strength.
Working from the top down made the process easier, leaving room to level and secure each shelf as it was added. This approach helped ensure all shelves were aligned consistently.
Each piece was checked for level before final attachment, creating a neat and uniform appearance. Taking time during this step resulted in a tight, clean fit that made the whole project feel polished.
Why This Project Works
Repurposing an unused closet into a walk-in bookcase is a smart way to add custom storage without taking up floor space elsewhere. It provides a home for books, decor, or collectibles while improving the room’s function.
Because it’s custom-fit to the space, there’s no wasted area or awkward gaps. The end result is both practical and visually clean, blending in as if it were part of the home’s original design.
See the Full Project
Learn more from Sam here: https://sammacydesigns.com/lifeoutsidetheshop/diy-bookcase/.