Why do barrister bookcases have glass?
Asked by: Trenton McGlynn | Last update: October 8, 2025Score: 4.4/5 (26 votes)
History of Barrister Bookcases Their unique design allowed not only for efficient mobility, but most also included glass frontage and door mechanisms on each shelf to provide protection from dust during travel and deter people from touching or taking the tomes or trinkets housed within.
Should bookcases have glass doors?
Most large sliding exterior doors have UV protection built in. Glass doors on bookcases are there to prevent dust, though some dust comes from the books themselves. Unless they're hermetically sealed, glass doors likely won't obstruct air circulation, another necessity.
Why do they call it a barrister bookcase?
The barrister bookcase was born out of necessity. Barristers, or lawyers that specialize in case law and represent clients in court, found themselves in need of a piece of furniture that could not only store volumes of reference books but also could be transported safely and easily as they traveled from court to court.
Why are barrister bookcases so expensive?
Typically, antique barrister bookcases are fairly expensive compared to modern versions, and are readily available in antique furniture stores. Antique barrister bookcases are often sought after because they are constructed from solid woods, ensuring for a quality bookcase.
Do all barrister bookcases come apart?
Do all barrister bookcases come apart? Yes, one of the main features of barrister bookcases is their stackable, modular design. Each section can be removed and rearranged, making it easy to transport or change the layout.
How to Repair a Barrister Bookshelf
Why do designers put books in bookcases backwards?
The main argument for why designers like this look is that it shows the whites of the pages, creating a cohesive color palette on your bookshelf. “I love the sculptural effect you get by facing the pages out,” Meininger added.
How old are barrister bookcases?
Barrister bookcases became popular in the mid-to-late 19th century, and were born out of necessity.
Can you stack barrister bookcases?
Can I stack on top of deep sections or lateral file units? Yes, you can do so with a reducer crown.
Do built in bookcases add value to a home?
A lone shelf or two isn't going to trigger any kind of major adjustment in the value of your property. Built-ins like bookshelves can increase a property's value if they're made with high quality materials (such as hardwood, rather than medium-density fiberboard) and expert craftsmanship.
What is a secretaire bookcase?
These antique bookcases are called secretaire or bureau bookcases because they have a desk drawer or fall front desk. They are also referred to as secretary bookcases or escritiore bookcases.
What is a Canterbury bookcase?
The Canterbury Bookcase with cupboard is a traditional bookcase made in solid Oak with three adjustable shelves in the top section and two doors in the base section. The bookcase can be made to your specification and polished to any of our standard finishes or to match your existing furniture.
What is a barrister called in England?
barrister, one of the two types of practicing lawyers in England and Wales, the other being the solicitor. In general, barristers engage in advocacy (trial work) and solicitors in office work, but there is a considerable overlap in their functions.
What is the difference between a bookshelf and a bookcase?
A bookcase can be called a closed unit that encases books and is designed to sit on the floor whereas a bookshelf doesn't have ecased ends and is often designed to hang on the wall. Bookcases are more traditional compared to bookshelves and are often installed as permanent fixtures in a house.
Are glass bookshelves safe?
When tempered glass shatters, it is designed to break into cube-like pieces rather than the sharp, dangerous shards of regular glass. Still, it's advisable to keep glass shelves out of reach of children and pets, as even tempered glass has a weight limit and can be broken or damaged by a curious child or pet.
Should built in bookcases go to the ceiling?
Bookcases are for a lot more than just books these days! Cons: If bookcases are floor to ceiling, they might provide too much “visible” storage and not enough “concealed” storage. If a client wants full-wall bookcases, I usually recommend cabinets on the bottom and open storage on top.
Can I put doors on my BILLY bookcase?
Adjustable hinges allow you to adjust the door horizontally and vertically. Behind the panel doors you can keep your belongings hidden and free from dust. 1 door will fit BILLY bookcase 15¾" and 2 doors will fit BILLY bookcase 31½".
Where should you not put bookshelves?
Avoid a humid basement because the moisture may encourage mold growth. And steer clear of any area that frequently floods or experiences extreme temperatures. Heat can cause book bindings to melt or crack. Place the boxes on a shelf (in case of water leaks).
Is it cheaper to build a bookshelf or buy one?
If you can find cheap materials and have the time to build the bookshelf, then it is probably cheaper to build a bookshelf than to buy one. However, if you need to buy materials and do not have the time to build the bookshelf, it is probably more expensive to build a bookshelf.
Are built-in bookshelves outdated?
For the longest time, they were seen as outdated or a waste of square footage, but I for one have always loved them and am happy to welcome them again. Built-in cabinets offer a seamless and timeless look to any room.
What is another name for a barrister bookcase?
Also known as a lawyer's cabinet, a barrister bookcase is a type of modular bookcase formed by a series of stacked, glass-fronted storage compartments.
Should books be pushed to the back of a bookcase?
Do not push the books against the back wall of the bookcase. Move them more forward, to the front edge of the shelf. This will give the bookcase a uniform look and prevent dust from settling on its surface.
How much weight can a bookcase hold?
A standard 2 x 4 bookshelf can hold around 40 to 300 pounds, depending on the quality of the shelf. For floating shelves, it all boils down to how many wall studs the shelf is attached to; every wall stud can support up to 50 pounds, so the more wall studs, the better.
How much do built in bookcases cost?
And with a built-in bookshelf, you can put them all on display while making the most of your wall space. Built-in bookshelves cost from $1,398 to $4,873 to install on average, with most homeowners spending about $3,068.
What is the oldest bookcase in the world?
The oldest existing bookcases are at Oxford University, built in the sixteenth century.
Should a bookcase have a back?
Not having a back to your furniture will give a more airy and cozy vibe to your space, as opposed to 'backed' furniture that has the tendency to close things off. Open back bookshelves are great for displaying your favorite items, pictures and decorative pieces.