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Book Nooks--Get The Look
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment can affect behavior. Before consulting privately, I received my MA in writing and ran a design boutique in Los Angeles.
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment... More »
A friend was recently talking about creativity, and asked what I was proud of having created. Of course (of course!) I first thought of my two young children--and my second thoughts randomly were of our very small library. Created out of a formal dining room, the walls of this space are covered with (categorized and alphabetized) books, the lighting is sufficient yet cozy, and one could sink into the seating for hours. My husband, tongue-in-cheek, I imagine, suggested that our next step is to catalog all of our materials--and my heart actually sped up in excitement.
So nerdy. I know.
Because most of us don't have the old English manor formal library in our dwellings, but have carved great spaces out of nothing for our libraries, I've chosen some comparatively new and lesser-known examples on houzz of book nooks that do the job beautifully.
So nerdy. I know.
Because most of us don't have the old English manor formal library in our dwellings, but have carved great spaces out of nothing for our libraries, I've chosen some comparatively new and lesser-known examples on houzz of book nooks that do the job beautifully.
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Simple bookshelves built along each wall, with plush seating in the center, can turn a large unused closet space into another room altogether. The unusual color ties it into the whole space yet sets it apart. For how sophisticated and intricate a space it can become, this can be a manageable diy project.
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This open shelving standing perpendicular to the wall creates an intimate workspace that provides privacy and focus, yet breathes pleasantly. The largely monochromatic backdrop allows for pleasant and in no way overwhelming detail.
by Gast Architects
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Reminiscent of du Maurier and Agatha Christie and mysterious English manors in general, this added swinging doorway segments this area and adds extra book storage.
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| These simple (and beautifully filled) built-in bookshelves turn what would be a blank space with a desk into an entire world of academia and learning. This room is useful and aesthetically complete--beyond the work space, there is no need for other decor. |
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| I love when bookshelves replace solid blocking walls between two spaces such as this. Not only is space more efficiently used, but each room is kept distinct while allowing a more open flow between. |
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Bookshelves don't have to be kept to a separate room. Discreetly incorporating them as one wall of a large space adds a great vibe and suggests a house of learning.
| This space isn't for posers--the books aren't too pristinely arranged but, rather, look as if they are pulled out and enjoyed and put back quite frequently. The comfortable furniture has order yet a casual elegance to its arrangement. What might have been just a neutral space to pass when going between rooms has been turned into a distinct and classy library. |
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| Even the smallest and most unexpected space can become a book nook. The proximity of this little space to a large working area of this kitchen table truly creates another room within a room, when the need arises. This set-up is perfect for the at-home worker and multitasker. |
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| This modern fainting couch and rug creates a central weight and focus to this open room, and helps the bookshelves stand out. Books can easily be enjoyed on this or the nearby couch--or fabulously unique booth. |
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| Another pleasant space to sink into. |
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A simple good chair and lighting beside a book collection creates a minimal but just-as-complete reading corner.
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| Couldn't you retreat to this classic room for the day? This simple yet incredibly versatile space not only provides comfort for long-term sitting, but a writing desk--all within the glow of fabulous natural light. |
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| A similarly-purposed room with a more streamlined aesthetic. |
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| A pleasant and very mod space. |
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I adore this space, which is another example of a simple room that could have been anything, but has been deliberately turned into a library. The (premeditated, surely) haphazardness of the shelves balances the clean white--and fabulous gray--surroundings.
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In this smaller room, the height of the shelves is perfect. When space is limited, think upward.
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And don't forget how important book nooks are for children. Studies show that children are much more likely to sit and grab a book when seating is distinct and comfortable, and books face out with covers showing.
Comments
Whimages I'm in LOVE with that last little space for wee ones! I LOVE it!
3 years ago · Like
InterDesign Studio Floor to ceiling built-ins make good use of these left-over spaces in a Garden Rm and great use of odd space in a 3rd floor stair landing 
3 years ago · Like
InterDesign Studio Sliding Shoji-style doors to conceal an awkward window unify a home office wall of book storage. 
3 years ago · Like
InterDesign Studio Rosewood burl built-ins fill in one side of this octagonal home office area. 
3 years ago · Like
InterDesign Studio Full height built-ins with integrated easily changable art display in this childrens' library. 
3 years ago · Like
Roberta Philbrick We recently downsized and I had to purge alot of my books...just do not have the space...it was so hard :D I do not know how people live without books...I know I can't! I've even put them in the kitchen above the cabinets...it's a great place for all my cookbooks and decorating books. Someday I hope to add glass door cabinets to project them...just haven't had time as yet. 
3 years ago · Like
Margaret Everton rlphilbr13: I love how your books have been placed and how they add visual fill and interest without cramping or shortening the look of the space.
3 years ago · Like
pwalter I love all of these (being a bookophile) but in the first one, where do you lean back to read? www.satisfiedsole.com
3 years ago · Like
Margaret Everton pwalter: One idea for more substantial back support in that cubby area might be to eliminate the bottom shelf of books and instead construct a cushioned backing that continues the red velvet seating, which would turn it into a sort of square couch. Add those pillows in the corner for extra detail and comfort...
3 years ago · Like
Dee Gould The "closet library" reminded me of when i was 11 and my love of books began...w/help of brother i turned my bedroom closet into my own special reading nook ake library..removed everything from said closet had brother help me stack 2 unused small bookcases (lucky they didnt crash down on me) every book i could find filled those cases, pillows from beds (forgot sister might want to use hers for sleeping) and beautiful fabric from mothers sewing room, lamp from the sideboard, and throw pillows from the sofa...it was lovely...so proud, my own slice of heaven..mom, well not so much..see i forgot clothes etc could not remain on my bed, sister wanted her pillow back and dad didnot want to bookcases crashing down on my head...however it all workrd out...the living rm in my home is a lovely proper english library....
3 months ago · Like
Ideabook published on March 27, 2010.
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