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12 Libraries That Lightened Up
Stick dark and dusty back on the shelf and check out these airy, modern and unexpected spots for books instead
When you hear the word "library," what comes to mind? Professor Plum with the candlestick? For me it's lots of dark wood paneling, a deep burgundy Chesterfield sofa, an oppressive amount of leather-bound books, a heavy desk, brass lamps and perhaps a bunch of judges having their weekly poker game, complete with lots of cigar smoke.
While a dark and cozy library can be a wonderful part of a traditional home, I'm more excited by the ways designers are kicking tradition to the curb and creating open and airy library spaces. They've kept the comfortable stuffed furniture but gotten rid of the stuffiness. Another exciting aspect is that they are finding room for libraries in what would otherwise be wasted space. Get ideas from a look at some fresh library designs.
While a dark and cozy library can be a wonderful part of a traditional home, I'm more excited by the ways designers are kicking tradition to the curb and creating open and airy library spaces. They've kept the comfortable stuffed furniture but gotten rid of the stuffiness. Another exciting aspect is that they are finding room for libraries in what would otherwise be wasted space. Get ideas from a look at some fresh library designs.
This library is also situated in spot with a transitional elevation within the floor plan. The architect must have taken careful notes on how to maximize the natural light while keeping the room sheltered from direct sunlight.
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This open library borrows light from other rooms in the home and provides a sleeping spot for guests on the modern sleeper sofa.
This comfortable and open library is actually part of a kitchen renovation.
Instead of closing off the library in the usual traditional way, this open library keeps the space airy and makes the entire first floor feel larger. Planked walls and a planked ceiling lend a cottage feel.
The upstairs hallway is often a wasted space; just a slight addition to the depth allowed for long bookshelves here. The walkway is open to the floor below.
Tip: Take note of the track lighting, art lighting and library lamps used to spotlight the shelves in many of these photos. Shining light on your books and objects will transform the way you experience your library space, especially at night.
See more ways to incorporate libraries into other spaces
Tip: Take note of the track lighting, art lighting and library lamps used to spotlight the shelves in many of these photos. Shining light on your books and objects will transform the way you experience your library space, especially at night.
See more ways to incorporate libraries into other spaces
Here's another great library spot that makes terrific use of every square inch of space in this upstairs hallway.
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See the rest of this home
Placing this library space at the end of the stair landing is another brilliant use of space that is often wasted.
This designer has made so many moves I admire: the library desk complete with reading light (reminds me of college), the oversize lantern, the light walls, the dark paint inside the shelves ...
Tip: After figuring out furniture placement like this, have your electrician install a plug in the floor so you no one trips over unsightly wires.
Tip: After figuring out furniture placement like this, have your electrician install a plug in the floor so you no one trips over unsightly wires.
This bright library space is the perfect spot for hosting a modern salon.
There are no rules that say bookshelves need to hug the walls; they can also serve as room dividers in a large, open space. This room can go from breakfast room to research and homework area with one clearing of the table.
This is a beautiful example of a transitional-style library. It has the bones of a traditional library but has lightened things up with paint color, fabrics and light fixtures.
Where and how do you store the books in your home? Let us know in the Comments section.
More:
24 Amazing Walls of Books
Tour a Book Lover's Beautiful Cape Cod
Where and how do you store the books in your home? Let us know in the Comments section.
More:
24 Amazing Walls of Books
Tour a Book Lover's Beautiful Cape Cod
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