A home library is an ultimate dream for you, Belle from Beauty and the Beast, and certainly for me, which is not surprising given that I write about design for a living.
But, really, who doesn’t want a separate room for D.E.A.R. time? For anyone who doesn’t remember this beloved thirty-five-minute staple in grade school curriculums, where you could show off your book fair loot, that’s “Drop Everything and Read.”
So we gathered a collection of chic home libraries that are far more stylish than the average bookcase. We’ve got the ultimate book-curation inspiration ahead, whether your home is traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, with these book storage and home library decorating ideas.
Some Traditional Home Library Designs
1. Display Artwork
“Because the room doesn’t get a lot of light, I decided to make it cozy by transforming it into an English-style portrait room, which is ridiculous but fun,” says celebrity chef Alex Hitz. He lined his study from floor to ceiling with books before hanging a portrait of his friend Nan Kempner by Peter Rogers. A statement wall upholstered in Gastón y Daniela’s Tree of Life fabric stands across from the armchairs.
2. Modernize It
From the inky stained wood to the modern side chair and clean-lined ladder, Fiona Lynch’s home library is a stunning contemporary take on traditional design.
3. Hide It
Studio Seilern’s library has a plethora of glorious hidden quirks. In fact, the room is a secret in and of itself, as you enter through a door disguised as a bookshelf. Despite the fact that there are only two levels, the mirrored ceiling creates the illusion of an endless tower of books.
4. Select Sculptural Shelves
Instead of the traditional built-in look, display your books on sculptural etageres and shelving units. Your books, more than anything else in the world, deserve to be placed on a beautiful pedestal.
5. Experiment with an Academic Atmosphere
Add a scholarly touch with globes, and then continue the retro-inspired feel (while saving money) by repurposing old bottles as decor.
6. Select Theme-Related Wallpaper
The book-print wallpaper creates a cozy atmosphere in Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s reading nook.
7. Put them to bed
The elaborate, moody bookshelf contrasts with the modern bed skirt and pale blush pink and white color scheme in this bedroom designed by Tamsin Johnson. Take note if you don’t have a dedicated book room but still want your collection to have a special place.
8. Table with Tulips
Bailey McCarthy gave an ungainly addition to a Texas home a new look by replacing plain walls with white-oak millwork. The family’s favorite game nightspot is a 1970s amber-glass tulip table with swivel chairs found on 1stdibs.
9. Set up Modular Shelves
For a clean, linear aesthetic, choose a modular shelving system, as seen in this space designed by Hecker Guthrie. It’s ideal for a home office or study where storage is essential.
10. Have a good time
Print, pattern, texture, and other elements were used liberally in this modern home library. The leather chesterfield sofa has a classic look and is a great choice for a study, whereas the blue velvet chairs and glass table are decidedly modern.
