Modern Modular Bookcase

This is my entry for the bookcase challenge. I designed my bookcase to be modular and have simple modern lines. I eliminated the “top” and “bottom” to give the piece an open feel and to reinforce the feeling that the shelves are “floating”. The case or “shroud” is 1-1/2” thick and made up of (2) 3/4” qtr sawn ash plywood or veneered mdf. The sides would be clear coated to contrast with the walnut shelves. The back would be ash as well but I would use a bright red Transtint dye stain to “pop” the grain and add a punch of color. The sides would be edged with 1/8” solid ash. Four of the shelves are fully height adjustable and are also 1-1/2” thick with continuous grain running up and over the front of the shelf. The center shelf is fixed and adds rigidity to the case. The center is visually thicker with a drawer below. Again, the drawer front grain would run up and over the front. The shelf and drawerfront would be beveled in order to acheive this. The drawer construction showcases handcut dovetails. The drawer sides would be 1/2” ash with a red dye ash bottom drawer. The idea is that this drawer is a bit of a surprise void of any hardware, but, once opened you again see the red and clear coated ash. The case utilizes biscuit joinery. Pieces should be prefinished prior to assembly. With such simple lines, execution and exactness will be very important. Although this is a stand alone piece, I could also see using a pair of these with a “media bridge” between them to house entertainment equipment and a flat screen. The finishes could be modified to suit other interiors.

-- bfd, Folsom, CA