I'm making built-ins for an area that will still have usable space behind the
shelves (roof line and portico make this space otherwise unusable). I'm going
to make two units that are hinged and swing out to reveal the hidden area
(which will store my network gear etc). Conceputally this is a great use for
the space, but before I start building the units I'd like to run this by the
group:

1) Hinges vs. Pivots - The bookshelves will be approx 12"d x 24"w x 60"h,
smaller than a "full size" standalone unit. I'm concerned that the weight of
the unit plus books/etc may make traditional hinges a non-option. Should I
assume this and proceed with pivots, or am I being my normal anal-retentive
self and worrying too much?

2) Racking - Knowing that the units will indeed be suspended from one egde (or
very close to the edge if a pivot is used), what worries will I have with
racking? I was planing on a standard dado/rabbet case construction of 3/4" ply
(maybe solid maple - haven't decided yet), 1/4" ply dadoed for the back, and
adjustable shelves. Is this going to work in my case or should I beef up the
construction? I'm thinking that maybe 1/2 ply should be used for the back, but
then I'm adding another 10+ pounds to each unit.

Anyway, any guidance/suggestions are greatly appreciated - I want to do this
right the first time :-)

Thanks,

--Henry


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