Who says that a library has to be filled with stained wood bookcases, leather chairs, and leather bound books that are older than you?
Libraries and reading rooms should be fun and inspirational so you actually want to spend time in that space.
Here are a few modern ideas for decorating a library.
photo courtesy of Builder's Design flickr.com/photos/buildersdesign/8671109695/Color
It seems that the majority of home libraries are traditional in style and filled with an abundance of ornate stained wood furniture.
Along with the stained wood is usually burgundy, navy, and beige traditional fabrics and an oriental style persian rug.
For a modern take on a home library, forget traditional colors and opt for bold and fun colors.
Also consider using metallic colors and fun patterns.
Consider using a mix of stained and painted wood furniture.
Home libraries don't have to be boring - add multiple colors to make it a place that you want to spend time in.
Furniture
Skip the antique or traditional furniture and select furniture pieces that are unique or one of a kind.
You can even repurpose items into furniture, such as a tree stump into a coffee table.
Whatever furniture you do select, make sure that it is comfortable so you want to spend a lot of time in your home library.
Don't be afraid to do something unconventional, such as using floor pillows instead of a sofa.
Consider shopping on Facebook Marketplace or other second hand stores for unique vintage or antique pieces that are conversation starters.
Fabric
Rugs, curtains, and pillows bring softness to a home library to balance out all of the hard books and bookcases.
Consider using bright colors and bold patterns on the fabric in your library to make it look more modern and fun.
Lighting
Good lighting is required for a library.
Select modern light fixtures instead of traditional brass lamps.
Multiple light sources allow you to control the light in your library depending on your activity or mood.
Dimmers allow you to adjust the lighting to your activity and mood.
Books
Instead of buying traditional leather bound books, consider getting modern versions with colorful spines.
Decorate your coffee table or end table with beautiful larger scale books to add color to your modern library.
Bookcase
Why do your books have to stand vertically on a horizontal shelf?
Consider custom making a bookcase to fit your library perfectly.
You can have shelves at whatever angle that you want.
Even if you opt for traditional horizontal shelves, consider stacking some books horizontally and some vertically for more interest.
More Thank Books
Libraries are execellent places to display unique items that you have collected.
Consider breaking up all of the books on your bookshelves with an interesting sculpture or object from your travels.
