15+ Living Room Remodel Ideas with Built-Ins
Built-ins can completely transform a living room by adding storage, structure, and a custom feel without cluttering the space. When designed well, they blend seamlessly into the room’s architecture and make the layout feel intentional and polished.
Here are living room remodel ideas that use built-ins to elevate both function and style.
1. Floor-to-Ceiling Built-In Storage Walls
Full-height built-ins maximize storage and visual impact.
Use:
- Closed cabinets below
- Display shelving above
2. Built-Ins Framing the Fireplace
Fireplace built-ins create a natural focal point.
Add:
- Cabinets on both sides
- Shelves above for balance
3. Built-In Media Units with Hidden Storage
Media storage looks best when streamlined.
Use:
- Closed cabinets for electronics
- Minimal open shelving
4. Wall-to-Wall Built-In Cabinets
Continuous cabinetry feels clean and intentional.
Use:
- Flush doors
- Matching wall color finishes
5. Built-In Shelving with Lower Cabinets
This mix balances display and storage.
Use:
- Open shelves at eye level
- Closed storage below
6. Built-In Window Seats
Window seats add charm and functionality.
Add:
- Drawer or lift-top storage
- Cushioned seating
7. Floating Built-In Cabinets
Floating units keep the room feeling light.
Use:
- Wall-mounted media cabinets
- Floating side storage
8. Built-Ins as Room Dividers
Built-ins can define zones in open layouts.
Use:
- Shelving units between spaces
- Partial-height built-ins
9. Built-In Bookcases for Vertical Storage
Bookcases draw the eye upward.
Use:
- Tall shelving units
- Adjustable shelves
10. Built-In Storage Around Doorways
Door-adjacent space is often underused.
Add:
- Narrow cabinets
- Slim shelving
11. Built-In Cabinets with Push-Latch Doors
Handleless doors keep the look clean.
Choose:
- Push-latch mechanisms
- Minimal seams
12. Built-Ins Painted to Match Walls
Matching colors help built-ins blend in.
Use:
- The same paint color as walls
- Soft neutral tones
13. Built-In Niches for Decor
Recessed niches add interest without bulk.
Use:
- Small display niches
- Subtle lighting inside
14. Built-In Seating with Storage
Seating plus storage maximizes space.
Add:
- Built-in benches
- Storage banquettes
15. Finish with a Built-In Styling Edit
Styling determines how refined built-ins feel.
Limit to:
- A few curated objects
- Books and decor with breathing space
Final Thoughts
Living room remodels with built-ins feel most successful when storage is integrated, balanced, and visually quiet. By combining closed cabinetry with selective open shelving and keeping finishes cohesive, built-ins elevate the space while keeping it calm, organized, and timeless.
FAQs
Do built-ins make living rooms feel smaller?
No, when designed vertically and finished to blend in, they often make rooms feel larger.
Are built-ins worth the investment?
Yes, they add storage, functionality, and long-term value.
Should built-ins be open or closed?
A mix works best, with more closed storage than open.
What color should built-ins be?
Matching the wall color helps them feel seamless.
Can built-ins work in small living rooms?
Yes, they often work better than freestanding furniture.
What is the most popular built-in upgrade?
Fireplace-framing cabinets with shelving.
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