We were asked to create a home with enough square footage to accommodate some open planning with some traditional details, a hybrid of modern and traditional. Our design plan for the books needed to complement rather than compete visually but also be highly unusual to be on par with her immense collection of books that spans 500 linear feet, ranging from first-edition rare volumes: poetry, art, religion, social studies, cookbooks and pop culture (and to which she is always adding to).
The addition was to create a private suite with garden for the owners while offering flexible areas for a growing library complete with a comfortable respite for languid enjoyment of her books. After understanding the program of desired rooms, we confirmed with the homeowner the estimated number of books and approximate linear feet of shelves her collection occupied at her previous home.
A sprawling approach of cabinetry design throughout was preferred over one dedicated room: offering a visual interest from the colorful spines, script and covers of all sizes that one takes in wandering through the floor plan. The vibrant color, by means of bindings, against the white palette of the house, maps a path of visual delight.
The horizontal shelves act as datum lines that carve a directional path from room to room - some shelves are open from one side to another to allow a glimpse of the space, interior and exterior, beyond.