Custom Memphis Group Bookshelf Dupe

Custom Memphis Group Bookshelf Dupe

The Memphis Group’s Carlton bookshelf has always caught my eye. It’s bold, playful, and a total statement piece. But let’s be real—dropping $20,000 on a shelf just isn’t in the cards for most of us. So, I figured, why not try making it myself? Especially since Carlton also happens to be my last name—fate, right? Here’s how I recreated the top half of this iconic design for a fraction of the cost, and had a blast doing it.

What I Used:

To pull this off, I gathered some basic materials that anyone can get their hands on:

  • Plywood for the structure
  • Paint in those eye-popping Memphis Group colors
  • Wood glue and screws to keep it all together
  • Optional: Integrated my fire alarm into the design because, why not?

    How I Made It:

    1. Sketching It Out: I started with a rough sketch, focusing on the top half of the Carlton bookshelf. The only measurement I really cared about was making sure the top box was at least 8" x 8"—I needed it to fit around my fire alarm.

     

    1. Cutting and Building: After sketching, it was time to get to work. I cut the plywood into all the right shapes and started assembling it with wood glue and screws. This part was all about making sure everything lined up perfectly.

    1. Painting: This was the fun part. I went all-in on the bright colors, painting each section in those signature Memphis Group tones. It wasn’t just about looking good; it was about making a statement. Plus, I figured out how to make my fire alarm part of the design—turning a necessity into a cool feature.

    1. Final Touches: Once everything dried, I secured the whole thing to the wall. Boom! My own Carlton bookshelf was complete.

    The Final Result:

    Honestly, I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. My DIY version may only be the top half of the original, but it captures the spirit of the design perfectly—and all for a tiny fraction of the price. It’s a total conversation starter, and it adds just the right amount of pop to my space.

    Wrapping It Up:

    This project was a win on so many levels. Not only did I get to flex my DIY muscles, but I also brought a piece of design history into my home in a way that’s totally personal. So, if you’re eyeing a high-end piece but don’t want to break the bank, why not give it a go yourself? You might surprise yourself with what you can create.

    Back to blog

    Leave a comment