30 Classic Home Library Design Ideas Imposing Style

30 Classic Home Library Design Ideas Imposing Style
Ingenious Drawing Unit for Kids Shaped Like a Giant Paper Block
How Your Interior Design Is Influencing Your Subconscious

Posted: 10 Sep 2014 06:52 AM PDT

"A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one."

― George R.R. Martin

Owning a home library conjures up feelings of excitement as well as promises of comfort, privacy and growth. Imagine walking in to find an almost forgotten world, where light, furnishings and scented books hold the collective key to diving into unique experiences of the mind. Whenever faced with someone’s home library, I avidly scan titles in search of that distinct feeling of comfort: aesthetic, sensory-based and promising. Classic library design holds the key to that specific feeling. As soon as you enter a classic home library, you bask in the ambiance of this promise of adventure, romance and transcendence. This dedicated space in your home is the fantastic realm of your imagination entangled with each author’s strain of though.

When Groucho Marx said: "I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book" he might have been thinking about a dream home library like the ones you’re about to see. And trust me, details will stick with you for a long time.

Meeting the standards for a luxurious foray into the world of perspectives and artistic visions, the traditional home library above is part of a remarkable home overlooking a golf course in Arizona where life unravels differently. Part of this differentiated lifestyle is the existence of a two story traditional library with hidden reading nooks around the covered limetone fireplace. Reading in this home was definitely crowned as need.

Fabulous home library decor can really make the difference between a boring sequence of shelves and a unique place to relax while comfortably enjoying imaginative ventures and adventures. The Ellison Bay Manor library showcases a classic design that calls to all readers and could easily be the perfect background for literary endeavors or a private book club. Travel enthusiasts and adventurers with a passion for reading would be extremely comfortable here, do you agree?

Some prefer the freedom and openness of a garden library, others vibrate at the thought of a private library with a soothing light color effect. Bright and elegant, the sophisticated home library above connects the reader to a bright and warm environment to serve as reality check. Inspired by this mix of vertical bookcase lines and square ceiling geometry you can create your own reading heaven within a dedicated room of the house.

Bespoke shelving in a modern home can be seen alongside classic furniture in a successful effort of adding high-class and sophistication to this reading and writing space. A library ladder helps the reader reach high up while grounding the library design. Madrid-based multi-disciplinary designer Luis Bustamante guides his work towards creating a refined atmosphere reflecting his history as a sculptor and a painter.

A custom round library design speaks about space possibilities entangled with an adventurous design spirit. You can’t talk about classic library design ideas without at least mentioning a rounded staircase. This is a two story traditional library and den in stained ribbon mahogany in Newmark Custom Furniture and Interiors‘ portfolio – we can’t help but love it.

Having just mentioned the rounded staircase in the library, it’s time to see how one of these beauties would fit in your idea of a perfect library design. The example above seems to be have descended from a mysterious book – this classic library with wooden bookshelves and cabinetry hides its doors behind bookcases. Designed by Wiedemann Architects in Bethesda, this traditional library design proves that some clients appreciate the atmosphere and smell of library-kept books even though they might read e-books while in this blissful space.

Open bookshelves holding incredible adventures, a classic library ladder to reach every book and a cozy chair with ottoman is all you need to prepare yourself for diving into a world waiting to be discovered page by page. And although you can take the modern road and hide clutter behind book spines with these creative storage bins, it will never feel as authentic as a classic library room.

It’s easy to find the perfect library design when working with talented design professionals. The library above – by Doyle Coffin Architecture – features a corner fireplace that illuminates and creates a comfort zone around it, so that your readings can be accompanied by the crackling fire. Imagine writing love letters from that desk. After all, we might be the last generation that remembers a time when letters were the norm and romance traveled via scented papers.

Linked to a desire to maintain the effortless feelings of elation sending shivers down the spine at the sight of an unopened letter, a library desk or table seems appropriate to any library layout. Book nooks and warm flames, fresh flowers and cozy armchairs – what else would you add to create your dream home library? Take inspiration from the luxury Jefferson Hotel in Washington, DC – their library is stunning - readers break free from immediate reality while anchored in a beautiful space.

Books and family memorabilia go well together in a classic library room, reminding us how every memory is linked to an object. This is not unlike the way feelings attach themselves to fictional characters in books we read and remain with us as personal memories. This is the very private and customized contrast of this public library in an abandoned industrial landscape – what they have in common is the continuous desire to know more and understand different perspectives on the world.

In a vertical library you would be tempted to add plenty of books, encouraged by the apparently extra space. But keep in mind that simplicity should rule in a kingdom already heavy with complexity. This residential library was imagined as a “shuttle” into any world you choose to enter via books on shelves. And since modern libraries start adopting a contemporary design, classic library design that moves you is becoming increasingly important.

Libraries with a masculine vibe can be seen throughout history. This Victorian Gothic library design showcases how serious knowledge was taken back in the days as opposed to our experience of fun and exciting studying. With fully paneled walls and fire crackling under a large emblem, this space promises privacy until you choose to re-join the material world.

Library design encapsulated in wood might seem claustrophobic for some, but others figure it’s the best setting to enjoy the fight between good and bad or an evening with a couple of friends discussing your latest read. See the Minnesota-based family-owned boutique building company Stonewood‘s portfolio for a deeper dive into their style.

Library design including an office space is not only functional, but also a great help for those studying and working from home. Imagine lifting your eyes off the paper only to see such an inspiring interior design! Part of a hauntingly beautiful estate near Santa Barbara, this fantastic library will have adventurous readers and travel enthusiasts dream about it over and over again.

A home library in a Mediterranean custom estate looks like the one above. Part of a peaceful retreat just above Mount Eden Estates in Saratoga and overlooking impeccable landscapes, this home also shelters a library where knowledge, art and family rise at the highest level. An imposing masculine desk, armchair and library ladder provide the bare necessities in a space dedicated to reading and writing.

A sculptural classic library and office space can put a smile on my face any day. With a sculptural desk under a fascinating ceiling, this classy library by Taylor Craft Cabinet Door Company exudes a decadent elegance seen in the intimidating spaces inhabited by admirable people. Vintage furniture is on our list of 15 Fresh Furniture Trends to Watch For in 2014 - incorporating “something old” in a modern home roots us to our history.

Toning down the regal feeling given by a truly classic mansion library, this apartment-version library instigates to reading your way into royalty. Imagine lying on the chic day bed after grabbing a great autobiography. Flooded with natural light oriented at the book’s pages as you rest your head on the rounded pillow, the rooms seems bright and cheery. The multitude of seating possibilities is one of the 10 interior design lessons everyone should know.

We’ve seen a round library before, but nothing like this impressive library/media room space shown above. Under a large, decorative wooden ceiling, a world of amusement and entertaining opens. Books on shelves, a spacious sofa escorted by a wood and glass coffee table and an envy-worthy media system, plus the office desk and armchair with lampshade – this space has it all! That’s one way for avid readers and movie enthusiasts to make their home feel like a luxury resort!

This light-flooded classic library and office example above is one I would definitely place on the masculine side of the scale. Warm wood radiates a feeling of belonging, light is filtered through the window frames, fresh air can be enjoyed beyond the large glazed doors while books provide the right knowledge to support the evolution of a healthy body. It seems masculine in its essence and if I was to guess, a men walk-in closet would link this office/library to the master bedroom. But that’s just my imagination.

Bookcases that run all the way up to the ceiling on two opposing walls make for a roomy library. Grey was chosen to create a neutral tone, while yellow was used to bring energy and color. Alongside these 10 must-have items luxury home buyers want most, I would definitely add a home library for those who understand George R.R. Martin’s perspective on reading: “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.”

A custom library ensures not only uniqueness and functionality within a given space, but also the aesthetic pleasure that comes from hand-made details like the custom round rug Julie Dasher designed especially for this enchanting private space. This is the library at the ASID Showcase Home designed by Angela Parker and it will convince you to take the custom road to having a dream home library.

Facing the fireplace, a cozy armchair invites you to take a seat and warm your legs with a book in your lap. This residential library appearing in a Connecticut home in Crisp Architects‘ portfolio hints towards the owner’s love for gardening, entertaining and relaxing in their country home. Everything that brings joy to the soul, knowledge to the mind and vivacity in the body is worth investing in. Within a naturally rural landscape, a country home library seems to be the crowning of relaxation.

Imagined by Peter S. Balsam Interior Design Associates in warm walnut paneling, this English style library design marries new and antique furnishings in a warm synonym and inviting environment. With light creating the perfect reading atmosphere, the library seems to lack modern technology. But don’t be fooled, a TV projector and screen drop from ceiling when you need them.

Custom library design starts with custom cabinetry and shelving. Imperial Design creates fine custom cabinetry for the entire home environment and the library example above is part of their portfolio. Showcasing a mix of deep, warm colors, this library provokes you to take a trip down memory lane while looking through your photo albums or share an adventure with fictional characters in a comfortable setting.

Re-purposing spaces in your home might get you that fabulous library you kept dreaming about. See Pierre Paul Design‘s work on a home library that did not exist in the original footprint of the house. The designer imagined this cozy library in a space reserved for the home’s second story open foyer.

This Far Hills home library and office boast a welcoming atmosphere, a symmetric library layout that cocoons you into a protective space while you sail adventurous imagination waters. Millwork & More created this delightful library showcasing mirroring bookcases, a distinctive area rug in the middle plus two different armchairs where you can have a cup of tea while reading your favorite novel once more.

This wood-paneled library provokes the mind to take a darker road, one mustering with adventure under the carefully dissipated lights. Susan Fredman Design Group knew how to create a classic home library design that acts as a quiet retreat and employs the aesthetic power of textures and subtle tones.

This is actually a clubhouse library and it holds inspiration for building your own home library inspired by classic design. Part of the Village at Tuscan Lakes, this elegant library beautifully displays a wooden-paneled comfort zone where socialization and reading entangle in an effortless good time. Do you belong to a book club?

The Dome Penthouse at the legendary Plaza shelters a library you are rarely given the chance to see. This fabulous home overlooking Central Park and 5th Avenue was designed to bring together classic stylish elements in a very modern setting.

There’s one last example of a home library in our list – a comfortable, simple and serious library that bounces us from luxury library design back to cozy, welcoming reading/writing spaces within the home. This dedicated space can be seen in Ruth Mortensen‘s design portfolio – a library where there’s a place for everything and everything is in its place.

Now that we’ve seen 30 classic home libraries bordering on fairytale, we would love to know that people inspired by Freshome read the coolest books. We’re curious what book would you choose to read in which of the libraries in this list? So share with us your dream library setting in the comments below.

You might want to take a further look at these 37 Home Library Design Ideas With a Jay-Dropping Visual and Cultural Effect before you head out to live inspired.

The post 30 Classic Home Library Design Ideas Imposing Style appeared first on Freshome.com.

Ingenious Drawing Unit for Kids Shaped Like a Giant Paper Block

Posted: 10 Sep 2014 01:34 AM PDT

Designer Luc Lacroix of o-carre e-mailed us photos and information depicting his latest project, an ingenious drawing unit shaped like a giant paper block. According to the designer, BLOC is a chic version of a small office for kids. It allows your child and his or her friends to draw together in one place. With four rubber wheels, it moves easily from one corner of the room to another, empowering adults to keep an eye on children, no matter where they are. And at the end of the day, parents are also free to join the fun.

We have to say we are pleasantly surprised to see a project that encourages offline creativity for children. This lovely design by Luc Lacroix ranks high in aesthetics, as well as versatility. Its base is made of laminated plywood against oiled wood finish and it includes one drawer and four wheels. Smooth, white, 120m paper makes this drawing unit ideal for any pencil or paint. Its rubberized peripheral coating (just like you will find in a standard paper block), separates paper piece by piece and allows children to remove them one at a time. [Photos and information provided via e-mail by designer Luc Lacroix ]

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How Your Interior Design Is Influencing Your Subconscious

Posted: 09 Sep 2014 08:35 AM PDT

Tailor your design so it pleases your body and mind. Image Via: Jessica Helgerson Interior Design

Usually when we discuss interior design, we talk about the aesthetic aspects – how to achieve a specific look, which decorating style you should emulate, new design trends that you should check out. That's only one piece of the puzzle.

An area that's not always taken into consideration is the philological effect of interior design on your subconscious. Believe it or not, the choices that you make when deciding how your home will look have a documented effect on your emotions and perceptions. The color of the walls in your kitchen might be contributing to your anxiety and your brand of couch could lead others to assume that you're standoffish.

Want to make sure that your home is giving off the right impression? Read on for more information about the psychological side of décor. Use this information to create a design that works for you – inside and out.

scerene bathroom How Your Interior Design Is Influencing Your Subconscious

By adhering to these concepts, your design will be aesthetically and psychologically pleasing. Image Via: Klein’s Custom Countertops

Color Choice Affects Your Mood

It's no surprise that color is a main component of how we experience the world around us. But, what may be surprising to some is the fact that that the colors in our environment have a definitive effect on or moods and emotions. As you begin to conceptualize your home's interior design, make sure that you are using colors in ways that fit with the tone you want to create in the space.

Modern color psychology dates its origins to the early 19^th-century when Johann Wolfgang von Goethe published his book, Theory of Colours. Though there is some debate regarding the implications of certain shades, researchers, interior designers and marketing professionals seem to agree on these basic tenants:

Red: Symbolizes power and passion. It can be used to warm up spaces and make them feel more intimate.
Orange: Offers a jolt of energy and innovation. It's best used as an accent because too much can leave people feeling overwhelmed.
Yellow: Associated with happiness, creation, and creativity. It works well in combination with a calming neutral and in rooms with lots of natural light to create a peaceful environment.
Green: Known for its soothing qualities. Green is the perfect choice for a foyer or entryway because it eases the transition from the outdoors.
Blue: Perpetuates feelings of calm and freshness. It's a good fit for high traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Purple: Connotes royalty and luxury. Purple is a great choice for formal living rooms or master bedrooms because it adds an air of lush sophistication.
Gray: Gives a sense of relaxation and serenity. Use gray in spaces like home offices or bathrooms.
Brown: Like green, brown's natural roots give it a relaxing touch. Choose it for rooms where the family gathers and furniture groupings that will incite conversation.
Black: An assertion of power. Use black for statement pieces that you want to draw the eye.
White: Relates a sense of cleanliness and purity. It is great for defining a space, but use white in conjunction with other colors since too much reads as sterile.

Remember, when you choose which colors to include in your interior, three picks are better than one. Choose a neutral for the largest items like walls and flooring, a calmer color for furniture and other sturdy items. Then, pick a third more dramatic color to pop in your statement accessories and décor.

colorful living space How Your Interior Design Is Influencing Your Subconscious

Pick colors based on what mood you want for the space. Image Via: Laura Casey Interiors

Your Processions Reveal Your Personality

Once you put color on the walls, it's time to decide how to fill the space. In his book, The System of Objects, sociologist Jean Baudrillard argues that every object chosen to fill a space helps to inform its function. But, beyond that, the combination of every item that fills an interior – from the seating arrangements, to the wall hangings, and down to the coasters that sit on your coffee table – act as an expression of our personalities and desires.

He suggests when we invite guests into our homes, they instinctively evaluate our interiors on four distinct value criteria, in addition to how the rooms look at face value:

Function: Will this item fit your needs? Is the kitchen table big enough to seat your whole family? Will this flooring cover the entire area of the room?
Exchange: Is this item worth the price? Would you rather have this singular high-end couch for $1,000 or a whole bedroom suit for the same price?
Symbolic: Does this item have an emotional attachment? Did you choose a collection of family photos for your décor or a print of a painting?
Sign: Does this item have a particular or status symbol? Is it a name brand or a generic?

Using these criteria, a person who chooses a smaller, designer couch over one that is a generic brand that offers plenty of room for their family to spread out together will be considered as very concerned with appearance and social status. Conversely, a person whose refrigerator door is covered in kids' artwork and postcards from friends' trips will be seen as more welcoming and sentimental than someone with a minimalist kitchen.

While there are no wrong answers, take Baudrillard's work into account as you go shopping for items to fill your rooms. Make sure that you're interiors are giving off the impression you want.

high end kitchen How Your Interior Design Is Influencing Your Subconscious

Your design choices unconsciously show your personality. Image Via: Peter Salerno, Inc.

Perception of Space Helps Give The Illusion of More

You know the saying, "Dress for the job you want, not the job you have"? While that's pretty solid advice for acing an interview, don't stop there. The sentiment can just as easily be applied to decorating the rooms in your home.

Interior designers use a concept called Perception of Space for decades to make home's appear more spacious and to make sure that rooms are as user-friendly as possible. Essentially, it just means using visual tricks to alter how others view the space around them.

If you want a room in your home to appear larger, choose furniture that is scaled to size and slimmer, place a large mirror on the back wall, and create depth with wall hangings. People who want their space to feel inviting should stick to a warm color pallet, create intimate groupings with furniture, and offer plenty of ambient lighting.

mirrors for depth How Your Interior Design Is Influencing Your Subconscious

Use optical illusions to control the perception of a space. Image Via: Ed Chappell

Utilize Feng Shui To Give Your Home Good Energy:

If you want to change your lot in life, why not start by changing your interior? The ancient Chinese art of feng shui has been practiced worldwide for over 3,000 years and participants believe that adhering to those principles can help attract good luck, success, love, and positive energy.

True adherence requires practitioners to analyze each space with a bagua, or energy map, and then use those readings to determine each aspect of their décor – colors, natural materials used. However, if you're not ready to take that plunge, there are a few things that everyone can do to improve the energy in their home.

Make sure your entranceway is clean, colorful, and welcoming. Arrange all of your furniture to allow you to clearly see the room's doorway and appear inviting to guests. Decorate with natural elements like flowers and stones. Be sure to keep your home in good condition and free of clutter.

feng shui open concept How Your Interior Design Is Influencing Your Subconscious

Feng Shui your living spaces to bring good energy into your home. Image Via: Marie Burgos Design

The way that the interior design in your home looks is only one small facet of its impact. Behind the colors that you choose for your walls and the way that you arrange your furniture, there is an additional layer of meaning. Every design choice that you make has a distinct psychological impact on your subconscious. Read these tips above and take them into account as you conceptualize your space. Let us help you create a space that's equally pleasing to your body and mind.

Would you consider decorating your home from a psychological point of view? If you've already done so, what design choices did you make?

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