Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Interiors Series- Library

As soon as the leaves turn autumn coloured, my thoughts turn to creating a library space. I don't have a library but I do have a beautiful living room with the perfect space that is being underused at this time in our lives. This has been on my mind for a few years as I love the imposed learning suggested by a library setting. I see it in my head. Looking out to a snowstorm, bathed in the warm glow of a beautiful lamp and surrounded by piles of reference books, stationery, maybe a jigsaw puzzle (I don't know where that is coming from lately) and the whole weekend stretched out ahead of me. So the hunt is on for a large and slightly-distressed library table, a fabulous and huge lamp, a great chair and it (almost) makes me want the snow to start falling. It is all about that hibernating mode I feel coming up.







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

12 comments:

  1. 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.

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  2. The library-bathroom is devine! I am putting that on my wish list. Wonderful post! Thank you!!

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  3. My own library, I am just imagining it.

    Love Renee xoxo

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  4. I am loving all of your libraries (and the Andy Warhol painting is brilliant) but my favourites are the last two.....happy reading. XXXX

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  5. Eeeeeek!
    I 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.

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  6. Hi Sande,
    I adore the idea of a library/bathroom! Genius and beautiful! Gorgeous pics and wonderful topic.
    xoxo
    Judith~

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  7. 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.

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  8. Lovely post...I so want a Library in my home..one day maybe! xoxox

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  9. love the library table in the last photograph!

    Books near a tub with water? I don't think so...

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  10. love the library table in the last photograph!

    Books near a tub with water? I don't think so...

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  11. 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.
    xxx

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  12. Love the bathroom library and since I hate baths, the books would stay dry. Fabulous!

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Your comments are such a lovely addition to my day. Thank you.

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