Four-Board Bookshelf
This bookshelf is an exploration of structure through reduction—crafted from four poplar boards with only 90-degree cuts. The intersecting planes form a striking X-shaped profile when viewed from the side. Assembled using a mix of traditional wood joinery and concealed screws, the design highlights balance, clarity, and the natural beauty of the material.
Despite its sculptural presence, the bookshelf is highly functional. The angled surfaces cradle books securely, while the open form allows it to double as a rest for tablets, sketchbooks, or personal items. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for small spaces, offering both utility and a strong visual statement.
Duration: 3 Weeks
Tools:
Jointer
Planer
Disc Sanders
Chop Saw
Table Saw
Router
Chisels
Sandpaper
Materials:
Poplar Wood
Screws
Collaborators: Luke Shen
Concept Sketches & process:
To develop this bookshelf, I began by constructing 1:4 scale models using foam core. This allowed me to explore form, structure, and joinery techniques in response to the project brief, which required the use of basic joinery methods—no glue, only screws—and encouraged experimentation through varied cuts across four wooden boards.
Once I had a clear sense of the design direction through these prototypes, I moved on to full-scale mock-ups using cardboard. This step helped me refine structural stability and ensure the joinery would hold effectively at scale before committing to the final material.
Initial prototypes:
The final bookshelf was constructed using a range of woodworking tools and machines, including the jointer planer, chop saw, table saw, disc sander, chisels, and screws. To ensure precision in measurements and the placement of components.
Solidworks teckpack:
