"Books are a uniquely portable magic." - Stephen King
"I cannot live without books." - Thomas Jefferson
"There is no friend as loyal as a book." - Ernest Hemingway
We all crave a little escape from the constant buzz of technology in our lives, don't we? That's where a home library comes in!
It provides the perfect space for us to disconnect from the world of gadgets and screens, forget about the outside world, and immerse ourselves in a good book.
It's a cozy retreat where we can curl up with our favorite novel, surrounded by the warm glow of soft lighting and surrounded by the comforting presence of our beloved characters.
So why not create your own home library and let yourself escape into a world of wonder and imagination?
Here are six tips for key elements to design a perfect home library:
1.High-quality shelving: durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Custom-built bookcases made of sturdy materials, such as hardwood or metal, offer ample storage for books and can be designed to fit the space and style of the room.
2.Comfortable seating: select a plush armchair or a cozy sofa, that allows you to relax and fully immerse yourself in your reading. And remember about that back support! Your chair needs to have a good pitch, so that you can sit back and relax. Consider using a chair with a higher back to give your body plenty of support.
3.Good lighting: The lighting in a home library should be soft and warm to create a cozy ambiance. Ideally, there should be a mix of natural and artificial light sources to provide optimal illumination for reading. Table lamps, floor lamps, and wall sconces can provide ambient lighting that is easy on the eyes and helps to set the mood.
4.Warm and inviting colors and textures: The colors in a home library should be warm, with deep shades of reds, blues, greens, and browns that create a cozy, intimate feel.
Textured materials such as wool, linen, and velvet can add depth and warmth to a home library. These materials can be incorporated into the furniture, rugs, window treatments, plush blankets and throw pillows.
5.Decorative accents: Personalize your library with things that reflect your personality and style. This can include artwork, photographs, and decorative objects like vases, candles, and sculptures. Displaying artwork or incorporating a favorite hobby into the decor can also add a personal touch.
6.Soundproofing. Last, but not least: soundproofing. To truly escape into your reading, soundproofing can help create a peaceful and quiet environment. This can be done through sound-absorbing materials such as acoustic panels, bookcases, and area rugs.
We hope you can use these tips to create your own unique space.
Whether your home library is a spare closet or a wall of floor-to-ceiling shelving with a rolling ladder, we hope you can find joy and solace in the books it holds, and that it continues to be a source of inspiration, knowledge, and wonder for you.
Photos: Catherine Nguyen Photography