Look closely at this vivid original artwork used in a House Beautiful show house. The image of Andy Warhol by artist Robert Moody was created using Koi fish? I have always favored black cabinets and love how designer Filicia paired it with the yummy butterscotch leather and book jackets in vivid colours. Leaning artwork on bookcases is easy and so effective.
My brother who is a commercial pilot would love this painting and setting. A small bar cart and the attendant accouterments can instantly add a civilized, Mad Men element to any library. It almost goes hand-in-hand don't you think? I can totally see Don Draper in this restrained room.
Lighting, the moody yet practical kind is hugely important in libraries. Not only do you need good lighting for reading all day long (and who is going to move once settled in?), but multiple types work best in a room full of books. Picture lights, wall sconces, and lamps, the more the better.
When Canadian (now international) superstar designer Brian Gluckstein first showed his brilliant version of a library-bathroom years ago with that curved bookcase, everyone went crazy and then anyone who reads wanted one. He is a master at architectural detailing. I bet there is more than one Toronto home with a variation of this design. It is the best of both worlds and really, does it get any more civilized than this?
My perfect library table setting.
Photos 1 and 2 by Filicia via House Beautiful/Photo 3,via HB/Photo 4 -designer Alessandra Branca via HB/Photo 5 by Gluckstein Design/photo 6 by designer Myra Hoefer via HB
I love the idea of a library. I would love to do that in our dining room or a future dining room, since we don't use a formal one.
ReplyDeleteThe library-bathroom is devine! I am putting that on my wish list. Wonderful post! Thank you!!
ReplyDeleteMy own library, I am just imagining it.
ReplyDeleteLove Renee xoxo
I am loving all of your libraries (and the Andy Warhol painting is brilliant) but my favourites are the last two.....happy reading. XXXX
ReplyDeleteEeeeeek!
ReplyDeleteI love the idea, but I'd have built the bookshelves on the flat walls to either side of the tub. Unless Brian Gluckstein takes tepid baths or used air-tight book cases, those books are going to be ruined by the steam.
To keep the effect, I'd expand the windows, or use the shelves around the tub for votive low candles, jars of bath salts, dishes of soaps, and humidity-loving plants like African Violets and orchids.
Hi Sande,
ReplyDeleteI adore the idea of a library/bathroom! Genius and beautiful! Gorgeous pics and wonderful topic.
xoxo
Judith~
Thanks so much for sharing about libraries. I adore libraries and one day when I own a house big enough, I will have a library of my own!! Books are so comforting. And I agree with everything you said.
ReplyDeleteLovely post...I so want a Library in my home..one day maybe! xoxox
ReplyDeletelove the library table in the last photograph!
ReplyDeleteBooks near a tub with water? I don't think so...
love the library table in the last photograph!
ReplyDeleteBooks near a tub with water? I don't think so...
Gee Sande your fab at this interior design thing, you are so clever. I've saved some of these pictures, I just love your taste. Gorgeous.
ReplyDeletexxx
Love the bathroom library and since I hate baths, the books would stay dry. Fabulous!
ReplyDelete