I love hallways that are made to carry more heft of the work in a house. A hallway library seems like such a logical and wonderfully aesthetic use of blank space.
Another view of the same indescribable space by Fiedler Marciano Architecture. This epitomizes high function-meets-simplicity-meets-structural-beauty. I want. I want.
Not only is this a great example of maximizing vertical space, but it also illustrates how to make good use of a narrow space. Does anyone think books are ugly? I hope not! If you have the wallspace, consider lining it with your literary collection — the shelves don't have to be very deep.
Use this idea of a tall bookcase close to a wall (if room is big enough) on two opposed walls of a library, keeping the space between them for desk, chairs and carpet. The rear side of this bookcase could be also full of books.
Hallway as library. Maybe a little clausterphobia-inducing, but I still love keeping lots and lots of books and this is a great way to keep them from being forced into being yard sale material.