Bookshelves and Libraries are a wonderful place to display everything from collectibles and photographs to books and boxes.

If you happen to be a book lover or a voracious reader, it is likely that you have built up quite a collection of books over the years. Home libraries help you organize your book collection, make it easier to find books and make reading fun and relaxing within the comforts of your home. Here are a few tips to design your home library.

While building a home library the three basic elements required are: space, shelves and books. You can either custom build a new room or choose an existing spacious room to house your books.

Types of Bookshelves: Recessed or built-in bookshelves can provide floor-to-ceiling storage and space savings. You can also mount hanging bookshelves onto the wall or buy glass cases, which might be preferable if your collection includes antique books that you want to preserve. As your bookshelves creep up the wall, you may need a library ladder to reach them.

Library furniture: When considering library furniture, you may want desks if you are writing and taking notes on your reading. Bookstands are also helpful for reading those big volumes that are too heavy to hold up comfortably. You can include overstuffed couches and chairs which will beckon guests to spend a few hours reading.

Library Lighting: When selecting lighting, look for a lamp that will help you see the smallest text you read. The lamp should be positioned over your shoulder, so that the light is not directly in your eyes. This way it will also help to minimize glare. Your lamp should be brighter than the rest of the room. However, all light will eventually damage books, so use it at a minimum.

Library Organization: Finally, a good system of organization will help you find the book you want quickly. You can also decorate bookshelves with personal items, such as photographs and souvenirs which can break up the rows of books visually, and it would also give you room to expand as your collection grows.

Here are some Beautiful Library Design options:

There is a great trend towards diagonal bookshelves. Kelly Wearstler designed this built-in beauty in Viceroy in Santa Monica. Simple lines on a diagonal pattern create visual movement and a bold dark color puncuates this book case.

Chicago photographer Sandro's library in his live/work space

Beautiful Library in a classic Interior Design - House Beautiful

With the Elegance of a Traditional Library comes the  exciting furniture home accents of Stark white chairs and a table.  Eclectic design is at its best when a designer can have the ability to intertwine two contrasting styles and have a result that is refreshing, smart and fun!

A feminine and soft library for the Lady  who has easy access to her favorite books, flowers and family photos!

An urban outlook for this very stylish library!

Oprah's Home Library!!!!!!

Secret' staircase, hidden from the main reception room, to access a new loft bedroom lit by roof lights. Limited by space,  English oak stair treads and shelves are both completely lined with books. With a skylight above lighting the staircase, it becomes the perfect place to stop and browse a tome.

Bookshelves divider in Offices - Domino

Bookshelves with Library Ladders - Ikea

Library with mezzanine and spiral staircases. Grandiose!

For more information about Interior Design and Feng Shui email Marie Burgos at marie@marieburgosdesign.com and visit our website on www.marieburgosdesign.com

Which one of these library is your favorite? Please let me know about it by leaving a comment on the Blog!

Subscribe