Are you a book lover or an avid reader ? If your answer is yes , then you have most likely built up a substantial collection of books over the years . Establishing a home library is a wonderful way to show off your design style as well as to organize your book collection .
We spoke with Cathi Marcoly and Mary Alice Slattery , founders of CM In The City , a Southern California Interior Design firm , to get their design tips for creating a home library in any size space . Cathi told us , “ We both believe a stylish home library can make a wonderful personal retreat for homeowners - a place to take a break , unwind and relax with their favorite books .”
Mary Alice agreed , and added , “ There are three basic elements to building a great home library--they are : space , shelves , and , of course , books .”
“ To begin designing your home library ,” Mary Alice suggests , “ Review the various space options you have , for example , do you have an extra room that you could convert to a library ?”
“ Or ,” as Cathi added , “ Maybe you can add a corner library to your home office or loft ? If you are in a loft property , perhaps adding a reading nook is the perfect solution .” Whatever option you choose , it will all depend on your available space . variegated colors .
“ Lighting is as important for design as it is for function ,” said Mary Alice . “ When you consider the various text size of books and the natural light of the room , you can determine how much reading light is needed ,” she added .
Next , it ’ s time for some great accent lighting to highlight your books and the special personal touches you ’ ve added to your shelves . There are many options here , ranging from recessed shelf lighting to ceiling pot lights designed to highlight art .
Finally , it ’ s time to select the furniture for your new library . Choose something that will invite a reader to grab a book and stay a while . Would a comfy club chair and ottoman fit your space best or perhaps a leather wingback or two ? If your library is in a large space you might want to add a desk . This desk can fit many design options : Modern glass , a classic marble top , or a rich wood would all work . Whatever your choice , you can go massive and masculine if room permits , or scale it down and go either breezy and feminine or mid mid-century modern .
If you take the time to review your space , choose your shelving carefully , keeping in mind your books and décor items , and try out your new furniture , we are sure you will have a beautiful library that will provide you with many hours of reading enjoyment .
Next , let ’ s address the shelving . Cathi said , “ In today ’ s world , design options are endless .” For a more formal library look you can design and build custom bookshelves . Recessed shelving is also a great space saver by providing floor to ceiling storage . There are hanging bookshelves that you can mount on the wall , or consider glass cases , a preferable choice if your collection includes antique books or first editions .
If you are a loft dweller , you will be pleased to see the wide variety of bookshelf / room divider options available - there are great shapes , such as the curved option pictured , or a partial wall .
After you have completed the three basics , space , shelves and books , it is time to style your new space . “ This is where we really get to enjoy working with our clients , bringing in their personal touches and décor elements to complement the over-all library design ,” said Cathi . “ Include photographs of your travels / family , mementos , a beautiful vase , or a decanter and glasses , etc : These personal items can help visually to break up the books , and draw interest to your design ,” Cathi added .
“ Arranging books in monochromatic patterns can be achieved easily with new books by removing the jackets and arranging them by color ,” Mary Alice said . “ Another great look is to arrange your books backwards with the book pages facing out .” Cathi added : “ This will give the space a unique off white look .” There are also available , book binders who will take your old Funk & Wagnalls set and cover them in unique designs such as a scene from a photo or even covering them in solid , or
CM Designs Cathi Marcoly 323 942 9920
Mary Alice Slattery 323 942 9921 www . cm-designs . com