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Old bookcases were transformed using MDF and VJ panelling to make a feature fireplace with hidden storage.
The project
This project saw two yellowing and chipped 25-year-old bookcases converted into a built-in fireplace with hidden storage. The project was completed over several weekends and has provided a huge amount of storage while creating an absolutely stunning feature in a small space.
Steps
Step 1
Measure the space available for the built-in unit. Consult fireplace insert manual for minimum clearances and measure bookcases. Using these details, make up a draft plan of the project to suit your space and needs.
Boxout a simple fireplace surround by cutting MDF pieces to size using a circular saw and glueing then screwing edges together into a rectangle.
Secure your fireplace inside and double check safety clearance according to fireplace manual. Screw a backing piece along the top inside edge of the box to provide a surface to secure the unit to the wall.
Create two additional boxes the same way to fit either side of the fireplace (add shelves if desired). Consider how your fireplace will reach a power point and use a hole saw attachment to drill access through units if needed.
Build a short rectangle using scrap wood to place flat on the ground as toe kick area, then secure boxes on top. Secure boxes to the wall by screwing through the backing piece using screws that will suit your house framing.
Cut bookcases to fit the remaining space, and line with VJ boards if desired. Lift into position and secure to the wall. Cover your toe kick area and joins between the new unit and old bookcases with a nicer piece of MDF cut to size.
Step 2
Measure and cut doors to cover the opening in the bottom units (or which parts of your design you would like enclosed). Add trim pieces to suit your decorative needs if desired (here I secured four pieces into the shape of a basic rectangle frame using trim nails to give a slight Hamptons' vibe to the unit). Test your doors fit nicely with small gaps on all sides (but secure them with hinges after painting).
Cut trim pieces to cover space between units and walls. Wood-fill all the nail holes visible and damaged areas of old bookcases. Caulk around edges if needed to cover any gaps.
Step 3
After wood filler has dried, sand back to smooth. Sand old painted areas to ensure paint will stick well. Vacuum unit clean, then dust using a cloth. Finally wipe out old bookcases with diluted sugar soap to clean off any remaining grime so paint will adhere well.
Mask off unit with masking tape to protect floors, walls and fireplace, and then paint the entire unit (old and new), with 3-in-1 primer, sealer, undercoat. Finally, apply two coats of your chosen paint (I used All Black in Aquaenamel) using a brush to cut in and a roller for bigger areas.
Step 4
Once paint has dried, mount the doors to the unit using hinges and run the fireplace's power cord to the power point. At this stage I decided to add additional shelving above the fireplace by screwing rectangles of MDF into the bookcases either side. I then enclosed this area with doors made from several rectangular pieces of 6mm MDF (on which I repeated the decorative Hamptons-styled trim) to provide additional hidden storage.
Step 5
Flick on the power, and enjoy your new cosy winter wonderland!
Tools and materials
Materials used in the project:
- MDF boards 12mm x 2400mm x 1200mm
- MDF boards 6mm x 2400mm x 1200mm
- MDF primed VJ lining panel
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Steel screws
- Trim
- Wood filler
- 3-in-1 Primer sealer undercoat
- Interior paint
- Hinges
- Painters tape
- Sugar soap
- Sandpaper
- Fireplace insert (electric plug and play version).
Tools used in the project:
How to heat your home
Discover the best ways to keep your home cosy in How to heat your home from the Bunnings team.
More inspiration for your fireplace project
Bunnings Workshop member Leanne created this fireplace and feature wall featuring a wood heater, bookshelves and stone cladding.
Community member Kels created a fireplace feature wall using VJ panels and adding built-in shelves.
Please remember it is essential that your heater is installed by a qualified professional and that all installation guidelines provided by the manufacturer are followed. This includes maintaining proper clearance to combustible materials, adhering to installation distance requirements, and meeting the necessary hearth specifications.
