Doors for a Faux Book project fall into two main categories; large doors in everyday use and cupboard doors.

Large Doors in Everyday Use

Surrounds

Remember you are trying to create the illusion of a bookcase. The woodwork around the edge of the door (architrave) or wall space should represent the top and sides of the bookcase. A strip of wood or skirting board at the base (e.g. 100mm or 4” high) is worth thinking about to represent the base of the bookcase (it can also act as a kick plate). All surrounds and false shelves should have the same stain / paint / varnish effect to look like one piece of furniture. You may need to think about the thickness of the door being accommodated so that it opens without binding.

Hinges

These should be fitted with large 4” (100mm) hinges – normally three. If the door opens away from you ordinary butt hinges will work.

If the door opens towards you, parliament hinges are recommended as they throw the door away from the casement or the wall and means that the books and shelving do not foul the door frame and adjoining shelving and allow for a neat fit when shut (allow 25mm depth for false shelving & faux books attached to the front of the door). These are available in a dark bronze finish or brass.

Catches & Handles

A door used every day requires a reliable door fastener that will blend in with the books. The door catch should be either a normal door catch or a good quality ball catch fitted with a suitable knob (antique bronze is a good choice). Let us know the position and we will accommodate this in the design as inconspicuously as possible.

Cupboard Doors

Hinges

These are usually not as heavy and you can use two methods – long butt hinges and mount them as you would do for parliament hinges  – or a pivot hinge.  This is totally hidden but only suits certain applications for constant use.

Hafele Ltd can supply a good hinge assembly in varying sizes to suit your needs. Cantilever hinges of the kitchen cupboard type can be used in certain situations where the door size is restricted as they will not support an unduly heavy door.

Catches & Handles

As these are generally smaller and lighter, a protruding book or small leather tongue will work as a door pull.

Magnetic catches or a spring catch will also work well.

An automatic door closure can assist the door closing to minimise the need for a large handle or door knob.