
MCM shelf hack-inspoI had been searching for an open-backed mid-century modern shelving unit but could not find what I wanted for what I was willing to spend. I had found one I really liked, but it was close to $800:
After waaaayy too many hours of searching for a similar, cheaper reproduction, I found this one at World Market. This shelf was perfect except for the fact it was about 12″ shorter than I wanted. After studying the shelf and looking at the manual, I thought I would take a chance and order two shelves in the hopes that I could ‘add’ an extra shelf from the second Ashlyn shelf. It looked like the pre-drilled holes should line up so I crossed my fingers and waited for them to arrive.
When the shelves arrived I decided I would have to fully assemble one bookshelf according to the directions and then unassemble the top shelf (panel ‘A’) to add another ‘middle shelf’ (panel ‘C’) where the top panel A was. That explanation was as clear as mud, wasn’t it? Let me show you pics to clarify. The shelves are labeled in the instructions included with the shelves.

I added ‘panel C’ to the top of the 3 vertical ‘B’ panels, added 3 more vertical ‘B’ panels to the newly added ‘panel c’, I then reattached the top shelf, ‘panel A’.
The remaining pieces; 4-legs, 3-vertical ‘B’ panels, 1-wood rail, Bottom panel ‘D’, and top panel ‘A’ will all fit together with the remaining hardware to make a bench with storage or long narrow coffee table. I also think it would look good at the end of the bed or in the entryway.
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