Built-ins have come a long way—and yes, they’re absolutely still in style.
If you’re second-guessing those dated built-ins in your living room or wondering whether it’s worth adding custom cabinetry at all, you’re not alone. The good news is that built-ins are not only still popular, but they’ve also evolved into one of the smartest ways to combine style and function in today’s homes.
And if you’ve never had built-ins before, adding them is a great way to increase storage & add character to a blank wall or underused area, especially when they’re designed with intention.
With the right design, built-ins can make your living room feel more intentional, polished, and tailored to the way you actually live. (Talk about happiness built-in!) When maximizing the function of your home, it’s all about choosing the right materials, finishes, and new layout to match your space and your style.
Here, we’ll share tips and inspiration for your living room built ins renovation. We can’t wait to talk about your vision in person!
What Makes Built-Ins Feel Dated?
Clearly—not all built-ins are created equal. If you’re living in an older house, chances are your current built ins, while sturdy, simply weren’t designed with current lifestyles in mind. If yours feel bulky, drab, like they belong in another decade thanks to ornate trim, or have awkward proportions – it's a sign that your cabinetry is stuck in the past!
Today’s built-ins are cleaner, lighter, and personalized. The key difference? Modern built-ins are designed to enhance the space they’re in; not dominate it.
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Custom Layouts for Every Home
One of the beautiful parts about going custom is that no two spaces—or families—are the same. We believe a built-in should fit your room’s size, layout, and flow, not force you to work around it. Whether you have a large open-concept space or a smaller, cozier living room, custom built-ins can be scaled to fit without feeling overwhelming.
Modern Built-In Trends for Today’s Living Rooms
We’re finding that local homeowners are leaning into designs that feel both timeless and fresh. That means simplifying lines, reducing visual clutter, and embracing versatility.
Here’s what we see trending in today’s built-in cabinetry:
- Flat-panel or shaker-style cabinet doors for a cleaner, more current look
- Natural wood tones and light, neutral paint finishes
- Open shelving mixed with closed storage to balance display and function
- Integrated lighting to truly showcase what’s meaningful to you
- Floating cabinets that create a more airy, modern feel
- Built-ins designed around larger TVs and integrated tech setups
These features help your cabinetry blend into the overall space while still offering plenty of storage and style.
Functionality That Works for the Way You Live
Modern built-ins aren’t just about looks. They’re designed to support your everyday life. Whether that means hiding cords and components, creating more flexible storage, or giving your family a place to gather and unwind, custom cabinetry makes the most of your space.
Today’s entertainment centers are often multi-functional. You can include adjustable shelving for books and decor, closed cabinets for toys or devices, and even custom compartments for sound systems or smart home gear. It’s all tailored to how you use the room.
Well-designed built-ins aren’t just a short-term style fix they also enhance the enjoyment of the space too. And should you ever go to sell – know that buyers are drawn to homes with smart, functional storage, thoughtful design, and quality construction.
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Style and Substance in One Upgrade
Unlike trendy furniture pieces, custom cabinetry is built to last! The key is choosing a design that’s clean, timeless, and tailored to your home. With the right finishes and layout, built-ins can evolve with your style and lifestyle for years to come.
Built-ins by the Cabinet Chic are all about thoughtful design customized to fit your lifestyle and add something truly special to your home. With modern finishes and layouts that work for your lifestyle, they’re a beautiful way to bring both personality and purpose into your space.
Considering a refresh for your home? Schedule a consultation with us at C & C Cabinets and discover how we can transform your living room into a space that truly reflects you —with happiness built-in.
