Do you love to read and have a collection of books that can fit in a room by themselves? Are you an avid fan of relaxing in a quiet space, just to get away from the world and delve into a good piece of literature? Home libraries have always been a room in the home that was considered to be an extra, as opposed to the norm. In today’s world, home libraries are becoming more popular, and home offices are also sharing their space with the home library. You don’t have to have a large mansion, or even a dedicated room to achieve a beautiful library. Here are 10 tips to create a relaxing library in your home.
1.) Choose where it will be located: Depending on your home layout, and how much space you have, choose an area that isn’t loud and heavily trafficked. A room is ideal that has doors, although a corner of a quiet den or guest bedroom will work well too!
2.) Determine how many books you have: For some, the library should be able to hold all the books they own, while others want a library for the peaceful setting. Assess your storage needs and decide if bookshelves from floor to ceiling are necessary. If you have a smaller collection, consider using open shelving for a modern décor touch.
3.) Choose colors: Libraries in the past were filled with dark browns, rich burgundy and hunter greens. In today’s home libraries the home owner can have a light and bright library or a deep colored traditional style décor. Choose colors that represent you, and help you and your family relax in the space.
4.) Layout a furniture plan: All libraries require a great place to sit. Based on your space, determine how many chairs, sofa, table and lamps can fit comfortably. If the library is only for a few people, a few oversized chairs could be perfect. Ensure a small side table and lighting can sit adjacent to your seating.
5.) Assure bookshelves are secure: Since your shelving will be holding a lot of weight, ensure it is hung with the proper anchors and supports into the studs or CMU walls. If you aren’t sure how to determine weight and point loads, hire a professional carpenter to assist in hanging and securing shelving.
6.) Sharing a space with a home office: If you plan on sharing your home library, assess what needs are necessary from the both functions. Will multiple people use this space at a time? Will the home office require computer, printer, fax and other large equipment? Will there be enough room to share? Ask yourselves these questions to ensure you will get the most out 4of the office and library.
7.) Install proper lighting: Lighting is crucial in a library. In the daytime, natural light may be sufficient for reading. In the evening, side table lamps, over head lighting and accent lighting may be required for artwork displayed on the walls. Consider adding a dimmer to overhead lighting to make the room versatile for playing board games to snuggling up with a book and hot chocolate.
8.) Assure flooring can support loads: Just as important as the walls holding the load, equally important is the flooring. If you are unsure, locate your home library on the first floor or basement of your home. Check with a general contractor if you have a large amount of books to store.
9.) Go vertical for optimum space saving: If space is limited, use the full height of the wall for storage and display of books. Don’t forget to use over doorways as a bonus area for storage too!
10.) Maximize views: Libraries don’t have to be shut in and dark spaces. Who doesn’t love reading and daydreaming out a great picture window? A view to the outside will bring in natural light and lift your creativity level while reading and enjoying your books.
Home libraries are not only for an enthusiast of books. One can use a home library for relaxing and stimulation of the mind. Few rooms in the house can you be catapulted to different discoveries just by opening up a book, or laying back and closing your eyes. Enjoy your home library with these 10 tips to guide you. Freshome reader’s do you have a home library? Tell us your suggestions for great book and display areas!
- Posted in Ideas
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By RoniqueGibson
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Great ideas. Thanks
Design is equally important in making the home library an inviting place to relax and read a book.
How about an Eastern themed home library that fits inside a closet? A bit tight perhaps but we would like to think of it as being “intimate”:
http://www.ezarchitecture.com/blog/ezarchitecture-podcast-16-dream-closet-thecloset-library/
Maximize the views is key in a home library, We would always try to do that on our designs, because read shouldn’t limit to closed spaces! I remember Bryant Park in New York, and I considered it as an outdoor space for the Public Library!