Built-in Buffet With Arched Opening

A built-in buffet with arched opening can turn an unused dining room feature into practical storage and a focal point. This project replaced a permanently installed stone shelf with three custom drawers, two wood shelves, and a softly curved arch. The work was completed as a semi-DIY project, with professional help for the drywall and countertop.

Table of Contents

Planning the Built-In Buffet With Arched Opening

The stone shelf was set into the drywall, so removing it cleanly was not an option. The wall damage caused during demolition was expected and factored into the plan, since a drywall professional would be brought in afterward. Before starting similar work, consider how the existing feature is attached and whether repairs to the surrounding wall will be needed.

The project cost around $2,500, including the drywall work, quartz countertop, and oversized hardware. The final design also included custom drawers and two wood shelves. Costs can vary with the size of the opening, material choices, and local labor rates, so it is useful to confirm quotes and material details before work begins.

Removing the Shelf and Building the Drawers

The first step was taking out the stone shelf. It was permanently attached, so it was broken up with a sledgehammer rather than removed intact. Because demolition can create dust and sharp debris, protect nearby surfaces and use appropriate safety equipment. If you are unsure whether a wall or shelf is safe to remove, consult a qualified professional.

After the shelf was removed, three inset drawers were built to fit the large opening. Custom drawers were chosen because the available premade options did not suit the space as well. A temporary plywood counter was then added to provide a work surface while the rest of the built-in was completed. For a similar project, measure the opening carefully and account for drawer clearance before building or ordering components.

Framing the Arch and Finishing the Buffet

The arch was framed after drawing a basic outline of the intended shape. Online DIY guides and videos were used as references for the framing process. It helps to mark the curve clearly and check that both sides are balanced before covering the frame.

A drywall professional finished the framed opening, creating a smooth surface around the arch. Once that work was complete, two wood shelves were installed. The quartz countertop was fitted during a separate appointment, completing the built-in.

Practical Takeaways

Plan for repairs: Removing an attached feature may damage nearby drywall, so include repair work in the schedule and budget.
Check drawer dimensions: Custom drawers can be a good fit for unusually wide or deep openings, but accurate measurements are essential.
Coordinate the work: Plan the order of framing, drywall, shelving, and countertop installation to avoid redoing finished surfaces.
Keep a backup option: Having an alternative design in mind can make decisions easier if the original plan proves impractical.

This built-in buffet with arched opening combines concealed storage with display shelves while making use of a dining room area that previously held a stone shelf. Its approximate $2,500 cost covered the drywall work, quartz counter, and oversized hardware, with the overall result shaped by the custom drawers and arched design.