Libraries

Library design is “not about just storing the books, but also about having a good place to use them as well,” says Lawrence W. Speck, FAIA. Clients who request home libraries tend to be serious about their books, so the room should provide several types of settings, ranging from cozy fireside to utilitarian work station. Lighting the page without shadows or reflections poses another major challenge. Designers each have their own tricks for the ideal placement of artificial lights, but most concur that daylight is best. “It’s much more even than trying to create artificial light that won’t glare or get blocked,” says Speck.