Turn a window into a bookcase

Remove the window casing

The window itself should be left in place. The internal shells should be padded, leveled and positioned flush so that once the initial shelf of the “box” is inserted into the hole; fits snugly and securely without any wobble that can ruin any table decor. Use a level to find the exact measurement of the pad wood that you will be nailing around the inside edges of the windows. It may be necessary to remove part of the casing, in other cases; Wood should be added so that the inner window casing is flush and the measurements are consistent. Also remove any siding around the window wall.

Isolation

Insulating the window and around the shelf box is crucial to ensuring your home stays comfortable and warm or cool and dry during the extreme weather months of the year. Fiberglass insulation works best, but ribbed foam panels work just as well, as long as they fit. Never use expanding spray foam as it can easily expand and break glass or push your shelf system off level, causing table decorations and other decorations to slide off to the side of your shelf.

Building the box

Now that your window is insulated and padded so that a uniform measurement can be taken both horizontally and vertically, you can cut the inside edges and back panel of the bookshelf box. Cut two boards the same length for the horizontal members. Now cut the two vertical members three inches shorter so that they all fit with the vertical member sandwiched in the middle of the horizontal members. Attach them all together. Cut a 3/8-inch piece of veneer to fit the back of the shelf. Use the factory edges of the veneer to ensure you get a square cut. Now place the shelf box on the sheet metal to create a perfectly square shelf box, almost ready for your wall art and décor.

Mounting and shelving

Place the box in the hole and check that it fits snugly, that it is level and flush with the outside of the walls. Fit as needed. Once you’re sure it fits, you can easily remove the shelf and add a shelving system as needed. Whether you place the shelves permanently or create an adjustable system with pre-drilled holes and dowels, build the shelves first and then insert the box into the hole for the perfect spot for all your home décor.

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