Built-in Wall Shelving with base storage - suggested Dimensions?

[Tomfoolery]

This forum has been a wealth of knowledge so I thought I would post this question to get the benefit of your collective experience.

I am going to be building in some shelving units in a home office - about a 10' span with typical 8' ceiling.  I would like to have a traditional look with doors covering the base unit and open shelves above.

Here is my question...
In imperial units what should I target for the depth of the base unit vs. the open shelving above?  I would like there to be a "deeper" base unit than the shelving and wonder if there are any "standards" out there to keep the looks right.

Also what should the "height" be for the base unit?

I understand that in custom built-in's anything goes but I have seen some examples of built-ins on the forum that look great and would like to keep this "standard" if possible.

Thank you in advance for any inputs and/or pictures!
-Tom

 

[tiralie]

Here is my question...
In imperial units what should I target for the depth of the base unit vs. the open shelving above?  I would like there to be a "deeper" base unit than the shelving and wonder if there are any "standards" out there to keep the looks right.

Also what should the "height" be for the base unit?

Tom:
When considering the depth of the base unit you need to think about what you want to put into it. If for instance you need to store A/V equipment and Cable box etc. you want to make sure you have enough depth. 20-21" works for most equipment and allows for cables etc. to fit comfortably. You also want to make sure the bottom doesn't project so far as to make it difficult to reach over to get books etc. off the top shelves.

In terms of the height of the base unit I like to start with 1/3 of the total height of the carcass/case. In this instance, lets say if the total height is 8'/96" then a height of 30-32" works. If you are planning to put a desk in front of the cabinet (office) then you could consider making the height the same as the desk.
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Dividing the 10x8' space up so the bookcase (upper cabinet) is the same proportions as a golden rectangle, leaves you with a bottom cabinet at 22 5/32".
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Hope that helps.

 

[ericbuggeln]

Dont go over 34 1/2. Layout the base with blue tape and then lay another line where you want uppers. Try to make it 2,4,6 inches less in depth til you get what you want, Eric