Question:
Dear Style Studio:
The first floor of our home is very open with a formal living and dining space flanking the large entry foyer. Beyond a staircase is an open family room and kitchen.
Because the living and family areas are so close and also because we are not formal people, we would like to turn the formal living area into more of a well-worn comfortable library and keep the furniture to pieces that are appropriate for reading and having a glass of wine – perhaps two chaise lounges or very comfy chairs with ottomans. We’ve attached a picture of what it looks like today. The children’s things will be making their way down to a soon-to-be-finished basement as will the yellow rocker.
That leaves us with the rug and bookcases – help!
Pamela
Answers:
Dear Pamela:
Thank you so much for your recent Design Dilemma regarding your library idea. We think you’re spot on making the living room into a library. It seems to better suit your lifestyle.
Our Style Studio Team thinks the Hudson Settee covered in our Sage Check or Toffee Check Fabric would look terrific centered in front of the bay window. Our Morgan End Table with the Jute Covered Demijohn Lamp (available as a kit) and Seagrass Shade placed to the side of the settee would make the space comfortable and less formal. On the other side of the settee, the Hampshire Step Shelf (online only) would be perfect!
We suggest hanging Ballard Essential Panels on the windows (hung below each arch) to coordinate with your choice of check fabric (either Sage Check or Toffee Check), which will both soften your look and provide some noise reduction. Across from the Hudson Settee, place two Paris Leather Chairs and Ottomans in Ponderosa Leather. A Terrific Trio Table with a check cloth in between the chairs with a Burlap Covered Demijohn Lamp (available as a kit) repeating the Seagrass Shade will pull the look together.
Instead of a table in front of the settee, we think the ottomans from the Paris group will work well. Another area we would like to address is the clock above the bookcases. Reposition the clock on either side of the bookcases and use a larger piece in its place. Our choices are the Regency Costume Print or the Pruvost Plaque centered above. Don’t forget to place, not only books in your library, but a few, well chosen accessories to make the bookcases interesting and inviting. Of course, the addition of some comfy Throw Pillows and plants will enhance the overall ambiance.
We applaud you for stepping outside the box and making this space a useful and relaxing area which suits your family. Naturally, we would love to see some “after pictures”.
Sincerely,
The Style Studio Team
Posted 3/19/09
| Featured Products: | |
 |
Hudson Settee |
 |
Paris Leather Chairs and Ottomans |
 |
Jute Covered Demijohn Lamp (available as a kit) |
 |
Hampshire Step Shelf (online only) |
