Billy Bookcases with Glass Doors for Kitchen Storage

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to add stylish and functional storage to your kitchen, Billy bookcases with glass doors are a game-changer! These IKEA favorites are sleek, customizable, and perfect for displaying dishes, glassware, and pantry staples while keeping everything dust-free. They bring the look of built-in cabinets without the hefty price tag or complicated installation.

We love how the glass doors create an airy, open feel while still offering protection. You can style the shelves with beautiful plates, cookbooks, and baskets for a mix of practicality and charm. Plus, with different sizes and configurations, you can tailor them to fit almost any kitchen space. Whether you have a small kitchen in need of extra storage or just want to add a designer touch, this hack is both functional and stunning!

Installing these bookcases is surprisingly easy. With a little planning, you can achieve a custom built-in look that feels intentional and high-end. Let’s walk through the supplies, installation steps, and tips to make the most of this kitchen storage solution!

Supplies You’ll Need:

• IKEA Billy bookcases
• Glass doors (such as Oxberg from IKEA)
• Cabinet handles (optional, for a custom touch)
• Wall anchors and brackets for securing the bookcases
• Level and measuring tape
• Drill and screws

How to Use Billy Bookcases for Kitchen Storage:

1. Assemble the Billy bookcases – Follow the instructions provided by IKEA to put together your bookcases. Make sure to build them on a flat surface for stability. If you’re using multiple bookcases side by side, assemble all of them before positioning them in place.

2. Attach the glass doors – Once the bookcases are assembled, carefully install the glass doors, such as the Oxberg doors from IKEA. Ensure the hinges are properly aligned so the doors open and close smoothly. If you want a more custom look, consider swapping out the standard knobs for decorative handles.
3. Find the perfect placement – Before securing anything to the wall, decide where the bookcases will go. Use a measuring tape and a level to ensure they are evenly aligned. If placing them against a wall, leave enough space for any baseboards or trim that might affect how they sit flush against the wall.

4. Secure the bookcases to the wall – Since kitchen storage can get heavy, it’s essential to anchor the bookcases to the wall for safety. Use L-brackets or furniture straps to attach them securely to wall studs. If studs aren’t available, use wall anchors rated for heavy loads to prevent tipping.
5. Adjust and align – Once secured, check that the bookcases are straight and that the doors are aligned properly. If the doors look uneven, adjust the hinges using the built-in screws until they sit evenly.

6. Style your shelves – Now comes the fun part! Arrange your kitchen essentials in a way that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Use decorative bowls, glass jars, cookbooks, and baskets to create an organized and stylish look. If storing heavy items like dishes or appliances, place them on the lower shelves for better weight distribution.
7. Enhance the look (optional) – For a built-in feel, you can caulk the gaps between the bookcases and the wall, or even add crown molding to the top. If you want extra ambiance, install LED strip lights inside the bookcases to highlight your display.

Tips & Tricks

• Paint the bookcases to match your kitchen cabinets for a built-in look.
• Add lighting inside the shelves for a designer touch.
• Use decorative baskets for storing smaller kitchen items neatly.
• Secure the bookcases properly to prevent tipping, especially in homes with kids or pets.
• Mix open and closed storage by pairing glass-door sections with solid-door bookcases.

Can I use Billy bookcases in the kitchen?

Yes! Billy bookcases can be a great addition to a kitchen, especially when paired with glass doors for a stylish and functional storage solution. They work well for storing dishes, glassware, cookbooks, and pantry items while keeping everything organized and visible. Just be sure to anchor them to the wall for safety, and consider adding custom touches like decorative hardware or lighting to enhance their look.

How do I make Billy bookcases look built-in?

To make Billy bookcases look built-in, start by securing them to the wall and adding trim or molding around the edges to create a seamless look. Use caulk to fill any gaps and paint the trim to match your walls or cabinets. You can also extend them to the ceiling with additional shelving or a spacer for a truly custom feel. Adding glass doors, decorative hardware, or lighting can further enhance the built-in appearance.