Choosing Built-In Features: Bookshelves, Buffets & More for Your Middle Tennessee Craftsman Home

When you’re building a custom craftsman-style home, every detail matters. From the exposed rafters to the tapered columns, the charm of craftsman design is rooted in both form and function. One of the most beloved and often overlooked features that define these homes is the use of built-in elements. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a statement bookshelf, or a classic dining room buffet, built-ins add beauty, storage, and timeless value. If you’re building a home in Columbia, Franklin, or anywhere within Middle Tennessee, including Spring Hill, Pulaski, Lewisburg, and Lawrenceburg, it’s worth considering how these custom features can elevate your living spaces and reflect your personal style.

Why Built-In Features Matter in Craftsman Homes

Built-ins aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re a nod to the craftsman home’s origins in the early 20th century. Back then, homes were built with a purpose. Every corner was used intentionally, every material handpicked, and each built-in element crafted to blend seamlessly into the home’s architecture. Today, homeowners across Middle Tennessee are rediscovering the value of built-in features in new construction. From enhancing functionality to maximizing storage without sacrificing style, these elements are more than decorative; they’re strategic. If you’re just beginning to explore your custom home journey, our guide on Top 10 Benefits of Building a Custom Home in Columbia, TN is a helpful starting point.  

Popular Built-In Options for Middle Tennessee Custom Homes

Built-In Bookcases

The craftsman bookcase is a classic. Homeowners in Columbia or Spring Hill often request these in living rooms or home offices to create a cozy, intellectual ambiance. Customize them with stained wood or painted finishes and add lighting and adjustable shelves.

• Living rooms
• Libraries or home offices
• Hallways with extra depth

Window Seats and Reading Nooks

These built-ins serve as both design elements and functional storage. In homes throughout Lewisburg and Franklin, they’re commonly added to stair landings or under bay windows.

• Bedrooms
• Stair landings
• Breakfast areas
• Dormers

Dining Room Buffets and Hutches

Built-in buffets in Pulaski or Lawrenceburg add continuity and classic charm to dining spaces. Consider leaded glass cabinet doors, recessed lighting, and wood or stone counters.

Drop Zones and Mudroom Storage

Perfect for Middle Tennessee’s active families. Even smaller homes in Columbia or Spring Hill benefit from well-planned drop zones to manage shoes, coats, and gear.

Built-In Desks and Workstations

With hybrid work here to stay, these desks help save space while maintaining style. Franklin and Spring Hill homeowners frequently integrate them into kitchens, lofts, and guest rooms.

Media Centers

Media built-ins blend tech with design, popular in open-concept homes across Maury County. See examples in our custom home gallery.