01 September, 2021

A Gem of a Library – Peek at a Project

A Gem of a Library: Before

This week's peek at a project turned out to be a gorgeous library, but it didn't necessarily start that way. The initial room was lovely, but a bit bland. It didn't have a distinct purpose or personality. It was filled with good, quality things, but the built-in felt a bit overwhelming in the space. For the redesign, we were tasked with turning the room into a gem of a library - a quiet spot to retreat from the active family rooms in the rest of the house.
There were already pocket doors in place, which allowed separation of this room from the remainder of the home - making it the perfect space to set up something more private.
LibraryAfter

Space Plan

The space plan for this gem of a library did not change substantially, but keeping the built-in at a uniform depth was essential to creating the library feel. We didn't want the built-in to feel like it was encroaching on the space, so this was a priority.
LibarySpacePlan

Mood Boards

We used mood boards when designing this library to create a quiet but intriguing mood.
We kept all the great things that were already in the room, including the sofa, chairs, and coffee table. We didn't have to start from scratch to create a gem of a library.
For the chairs, we took the route of reupholstery the chairs and added a skirt to keep the room cozy and to balance the built-in across from the chairs.
We used details from other built-ins throughout the rest of the home to create continuity within the room.
Additionally, the lighting and hardware were carefully selected to express a luxurious experience anyone would want to cozy up and read a good book in.
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Built-In

The built-in design was one of the most crucial pieces of this library design. We wanted to design a built-in that had more detail than the one that was previously in the space, we also wanted it to have a more library-like appearance and feel to it.
We created construction drawings to ensure the cabinet maker got all the details right. One of these details was adding beading on the shelves to add a level of sophistication.
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Wall Moldings

To enhance the library-like feel, we created the look of a paneled library by adding molding details to the drywall and then painting them with one satin enamel paint. The ceiling is the same color as well, which creates an enveloping feeling - allowing the space to take you away from the whole world, like any great library should!
LibraryWallMoldings

A Gem of a Library - After

Finally, we had a lovely library that served as a true retreat from the whole world. Sheer curtains and soft tones make a serene environment perfect for escaping, while the wall paneling and built-in create a seriousness that would inspire anyone to finish that novel they've been reading for the past 6 months.
To see the rest of the home this library is part of, click here!  Intentional living and a commitment to practicing the art of family makes this a beautiful home.
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Comments on A Gem of a Library – Peek at a Project
  1. Pam says:

    This is truly a gem Lisa! I love the colour palette and could see myself enjoying this space for years to come.

  2. Janet Lorusso says:

    Love love love the millwork details in this space Lisa – they totally elevate it to proper library status!

  3. Mary Ann Benoit says:

    Love all the millwork and colors. Beautiful:)

  4. Mary Ann Benoit says:

    Beautiful! I love the millwork, colors, and fabrics.

  5. Leslie Carothers says:

    It’s such a soothing space, Lisa. No wonder your client loves it so much!

  6. Christie Adams Design says:

    This is gorgeous!! Your clients are so lucky to have this space!!!

  7. Sheri Bruneau says:

    What a beautiful space, Lisa! I could imagine myself sitting in this library, daily! I loved all of your details – which just goes to show how important it is to hire an Interior Designer to take a space to this level!

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