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Hi everyone,
I'm looking for some advice on how to build a wall-mounted shelf based on the design in the picture I've attached (just the shelf not the desk).
Here are the specific dimensions and requirements I have in mind:
- Length: At least 3.2 meters
- Height: 2.3 meters, starting 0.6 meters from the ground (it will go over the back of my sofa)
- Depth: 0.5 meters (this depth is necessary to accommodate an arch window cutout on the wall to the left before the arch begins)
One important aspect I need help with is how to securely mount the shelf to an internal brick wall that serves as a partition wall to my neighbours.
What type of anchors or brackets would you recommend for this? I would appreciate any tips on materials, construction techniques, or design ideas that would help me achieve this.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi @super_cub
How thick is the wood you intend using?
I don't know the name of this joint - but it would work with thick wood, cumulatively building the book case.
Hi @super_cub,
Based on the dimensions and design you're looking for, this could be quite a challenging project. The style you're inspired by, where the shelf appears "floating" and uses concealed brackets, requires a high level of precision, particularly when working with thick timber and ensuring the unit is securely mounted.
Given that your shelf will span 3.2 meters and have a depth of 0.5 meters, you’ll likely run into issues with the availability of timber that meets these dimensions without significant custom milling. Most standard timber lengths are shorter, and the thickness of the wood in your inspiration image is quite substantial. To achieve the floating effect with no visible brackets, you'd need concealed bracketry that can support that weight—especially for a shelf of that size. Aligning these concealed brackets perfectly, along with securely mounting them into an internal brick wall, would be tricky, and it’s important to use the right anchors.
Since you're working with an internal brick wall, you would need heavy-duty wall anchors designed for brick or masonry. Expanding anchors or sleeve anchors would likely be the best choice, as they can handle significant weight. However, aligning everything precisely to achieve that floating look would be very difficult without professional tools and skills.
My recommendation is to carefully consider whether you're aiming to replicate the exact design from your inspiration photo. If so, it would be wise to enlist the help of a skilled carpenter who can source the right materials, mill the timber to the proper dimensions, and install the concealed brackets safely and securely. A professional would also be able to ensure the load-bearing capacity of the shelf is sufficient for its length and depth.
If you’re open to a slightly more achievable version of the design, you could create a similar shelf with visible brackets, which would still give a modern, floating look but be easier to build and more stable. There are concealed bracket systems available that you could use, but again, aligning everything perfectly could be a challenge. You might also consider using a combination of visible and concealed brackets for extra stability.
In summary, while building this yourself is possible, I think it could be quite challenging without advanced skills and the right tools, particularly when it comes to securely mounting a heavy, long shelf to a brick wall. If you're determined to follow the exact design, a professional carpenter would be the best route to go. Otherwise, modifying the design slightly to accommodate visible brackets could be a great way to achieve a similar look while ensuring the project is more manageable.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
