Inspired Libraries

photos by Kelly Moore Clark

These four libraries are the epitome of an inspired spaces, they’re a sanctuary for bookworms and a gateway to  countless worlds.

Janet and Steve Haedicke’s home library is a tribute to their appreciation of the arts. This luxe room’s custom millwork is softened by a beautiful wall covering that was sourced by Amanda Morgan Mott. Janet says, “ Most special is that my brother, Lee Vandepool, did all the millwork, learning as he went. Also, my cherished friend found the fabric for the walls. They both made more profound the phrase ‘labor of love.’ We toast both of them on our first library night each winter.”

A bookcase to the left of the window houses some of Janet’s most prized possessions, a collection of leather books that belonged to her maternal grandmother and then to her mother – both devoted readers. Art is scattered among the shelves and nestled in corners on the floor, landing neatly in its intended places. Among which sits Janet’s favorite piece – a Sevres urn, which was part of the purchase of her maternal grandparents’ retirement home on Long Island. 

Speaking about her favorite piece, Janet says, “ The story is that a successful New Yorker had built the house overlooking the Sound and furnished it with European antiques to  please his bride. Heartbroken when she left him, he wanted to be rid of the house and all of its contents – a labor of love gone wrong but now a third generation for us.”

VELVET CRUSH

Amy and Jeremy Stuart’s library is filled with bold colors and whimsical artwork. A reading nook with a blue velvet sofa nestled between shelves takes center stage in this eclectic space.

Amy Stuart loves reading – in fact, books are her passion, an escape. When asked about her home library she quotes Jane Austen, “When I have a house of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library.” The custom millwork found throughout the room was by Jared Pellegrin and Drew Wallace. Items from local retailers like Material Things, Fabulous Fabric, Traditions on Trenton, Walsworth & Company and Woodstock Monroe can be found throughout the space. While Amy designed the space to accommodate her sprawling book collection and art, Taylor Bennett added finishing touches like the colorful ottoman from Fabulous Fabric. When asked about her favorite items in the room, Amy says, “I love that I can come in this room and find so many family heirlooms in the space – from my mother’s painting to great grandmother’s ashtray. There are so many special treasures.”

REFINED SPACE

Meme and Dr. Lester Johnson’s library features a split-level bookcase and beautiful custom millwork housed beneath an impressive vaulted ceiling.

The Johnsons’ Tutor-style home was designed by famed architect, William King Stubbs and built by Robert Stone and Ed Justice. Ample storage is filled with family treasures, and the meticulous craftsmanship is tailored to complement the room’s traditional décor. When asked about their favorite books, the homeowners said, “It’s difficult to pick a favorite book, but some categories that come to mind are books reflective of the civil and military history of the United States, books of philosophy of the Western World, and the complete works of William Shakespeare and William Faulkner.”

A curated collection of books and family heirlooms are elegantly displayed in the home‘s library. Dr. Johnson notes some of his favorite pieces are a bronze statue of a knight-errant, terrestial globe of the world, his family’s military honors and memorabilia from the nation’s wars, and his most cherished belonging – his father’s lunchbox.

HISTORIC NOTES

Rebecka and Kevin Gwin’s historical home has been updated to reflect their style while maintaining original millwork and character.

Built in 1908 and finished in 1908, this historic home boasts the original millwork which included the family library. The dark stained cabinets are punctuated with a quiet color palette of light green and soft taupe. An antique billiards table takes center stage beneath and vintage light fixture, while cozy chairs line the perimeter of the room. Rebecka’s favorite books are from her father’s collection, most of them containing handwritten notes throughout. Other books are vintage finds, or books written around the same time the home was built. Family memorabilia lines the shelves and includes  Rebecka’s father’s American flag presented to her at his funeral, as well as his veteran honors.