Billy Bookcase Library Transformation, Restalrig
Furniture painting in Restalrig, Edinburgh
Service
Furniture painting
Location
Restalrig, Edinburgh
Duration
4 working days
Key Challenge
Painting 40 shelves across a custom IKEA Billy library in two bold Farrow & Ball colours
The Challenge
Restalrig sits between Meadowbank and Leith Links on Edinburgh’s east side. The client wanted to transform a corner of their home into a personal library using IKEA Billy Bookcases as the base, integrated with custom MDF across three walls by a joiner.
The challenge was scale: 40 individual shelves to remove, prepare, paint, and reinstall. The Billy Bookcases also have a tough enamel coating that makes paint adhesion tricky without proper primer.
The colour scheme — inspired by the client’s favourite dessert — was Farrow & Ball’s Middleton Pink (soft pink) and Cola (deep brown). Bold, personal, and completely unique.
Our Approach
Two-Location Workflow
We removed all 40 shelves and took them to our workshop. Meanwhile, one team member worked on-site on the bookcase frames. This split workflow minimised disruption and maximised efficiency.
Preparation and Priming
All surfaces were sanded and screw holes filled. We used Benjamin Moore Stix Primer — specifically designed for tough, non-porous surfaces like IKEA’s enamel coating. This ensured reliable adhesion for the topcoats.
Painting — Benjamin Moore Scuff-X Eggshell
Finished with Benjamin Moore Scuff-X Eggshell in the two chosen colours: Middleton Pink for the main body and Cola for accent sections. A durable, scuff-resistant finish designed for high-touch surfaces.
Reinstallation
Refitting 40 unlabelled shelves was its own challenge. Each one needed to go back in the right place, at the right height, with the right colour facing out.
The Result
What started as standard IKEA furniture is now a fully bespoke home library, bursting with personality. The soft pink and deep brown create a warm, inviting space that feels completely unique to this home. The client’s favourite dessert has become their favourite room.
Project Gallery
What Our Customers Say
★★★★★
Our whole experience with the Bert’s decorating team has been excellent. Communication has been clear and quick throughout, and problems or questions were resolved immediately. The work was completed to a very high standard.
The Bert’s Decorating Difference
“The mess-free, efficient and polite decorator.”
Our priority is understanding your requirements and ensuring we provide the perfect result. We pride ourselves on maintaining clear communication throughout every project — from the initial quote to the finished job.
Whether it’s the smallest touch-up or a full property transformation, you’ll always receive:
- Punctuality — we arrive on time, every time
- Professionalism — over 30 years of trusted Edinburgh craftsmanship
- Cleanliness — we protect your home and leave it spotless
- Clear communication — you’ll always know what’s happening and when
- Personalised service — every project tailored to your unique vision
At Bert’s Painting & Decorating, we don’t just decorate — we deliver peace of mind. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Want to Transform Your Furniture?
From IKEA hacks to full library builds, we paint furniture to a professional standard.
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Furniture Painting in Restalrig, Edinburgh
Restalrig features a mix of traditional stone-built terraces, ex-council homes, and modern developments. As experienced painters and decorators in Edinburgh, we regularly paint IKEA furniture, bespoke joinery, and built-in storage across Edinburgh’s east side.
We also serve nearby Trinity and Leith.
Services Used: Cabinet and Furniture Painting
Nearby: Lochend Park • Leith Links • Craigentinny Golf Course • Easter Road Stadium
