Decorating Workshop

Help! I have built in bookcases on either side of my fireplace, but they are very deep and not practical. Any ideas on how to make them smaller? They are about two feet deep by three feet wide. Any decorating ideas would be appreciated. If I put items just in front, y ou can tell that the back is empty, not to mention what a nightmare it is to clean them. Any ideas?

Thanks

Welcome imfirstmate!

Have you ever thought of using some of those slide out wicker baskets that come in all colors, sizes and even with tracks now that are great for storing books, Cd's, tapes, files for paperwork or what ever. You could even line them with fabric to match your LR.

You could have a carpenter or your handy Hubby make some draws or doors? Drawers or adding doors are a great alternative to deep shelves too. Another idea would be to use some decorative trays that fit inside the shelves that side out easy and you can place thing on them.

See these:

http://www.yestertimefurniture.com/files/computer_cabinet_002_copy.jpg

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00009N6PS.16._SCLZZZZZZZ_SS260_.jpg

http://img.timeinc.net/aolhome/i/design/su/98/11/SU9811104a_1_y.jpg

http://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/2006/06/l_100076638.jpg

http://www.papagenos.com/picts/amaryllis/Amaryllis.wicker2X.jpg

You could also try putting the taller things in the back and smaller items up front.

What do you have on your shelves now?

Thanks for the suggestions! Right now I keep pictures, music box collection, and do have some wicker baskets and greenery, however, they are not that big, so maybe will try putting large baskets to the back to take up space (and storage) and the smaller things in front. Also I really like your ideas of doors. Not sure if my hubby can do that, but would make a great project for us.

Thanks a lot