Tips for creating a cozy space for reading and relaxing
Fall evenings invite us to settle in and stay awhile. A warm, inviting library or study—with comfortable seating, purposeful lighting, and layers of texture—can be the perfect place to slow down, whether you’re diving into a book, lingering with family, or taking an afternoon nap. We asked Haley Black, senior designer at Howard House Interiors, to share some tips for crafting your own peaceful hideaway.
Q&A with Haley Black
What do you keep in mind when creating a library or study space?
The most important rule for me is how will the space be used. It would really be function over design first.
Are there rules to how much shelving a space can contain?
It depends on how we plan to style the space. Sometimes a client may have collected pieces they want to incorporate into the space and that could determine exactly how many shelves will go into the built-ins. I’m a very symmetrical-minded designer and need for things to be balanced.
What colors do clients tend to want in these spaces?
Recent trends tend to be darker colors. A library is a great space to use wallpaper to add texture to the space. Texture plays a big role in any design.
What are the keys to effective lighting in a library or reading nook?
Depending on how much you have styled on the shelves of the library, you may want a chandelier or pendant that is not really busy, but more simplistic. It depends on the space.
Is there a formula to designing the shelves and tabletops, or does it all depend on the client?
Shelves can be dictated by the client’s needs, but sometimes the client depends on the designer to create the vision. A library or home office is just as important as a dining room or family room. It is a space you can have fun with and add color, lighting, or wallpaper. In this space, the client asked to have the chess set worked into the design.
