Look! Custom Cut-Out Shelving

Shelves that let the light through, either with spare construction or translucent materials, can add needed storage to a small space without limiting sight lines or making the space feel too heavy. These built-in cabinets get creative with the concept, using cutouts to lighten the look.

The cutouts are also casting decorative shadows while they're not yet covered in books. In addition to shelving the project includes a table, chairs and a pullout bed.

• Custom shelves on Because We Can

Comments (10)

gosh that's lovely.

posted by makyo on April 14th 2009 at 2:46pm
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Ugh, can you imagine dusting all that?

posted by Comicgeek on April 14th 2009 at 2:53pm
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I was also thinking that they look awfully busy. But yeah, the dust too.

posted by JoanneM on April 14th 2009 at 2:55pm
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Hmm Comicgeek.....good point. It would also make for a tough repaint unless spray painted. Still though, they are just beautiful and would be worth the work. They would also make incredible looking headboards.

posted by baileyb on April 14th 2009 at 2:57pm
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Its a nice idea, but in the photos its overkill. It would be best to have one piece in the room with custom cut-outs.

posted by suzy8track on April 14th 2009 at 3:05pm
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yar, too much says i, too much!

posted by kdkaboom on April 14th 2009 at 4:07pm
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rather overwhelming ... i like the idea to use the technique for a headboard, though, but i would like it better with a less folklore design.

posted by maike on April 14th 2009 at 4:41pm
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nice -- but only if i had a maid to do the dusting.

i agree that one piece at a time would be better.

posted by tenderoni on April 14th 2009 at 11:04pm
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Very Asian-looking. Thai or Malay. Very pretty.

posted by SunnyBlue on April 15th 2009 at 12:49am
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I like it. I'd vaccuum, not dust.