Books Do Furnish a Room (Organize, Display, Store)

As all book lovers know, a collection of books affords not only access to endless pleasure and knowledge, but also, when skilfully deployed around the home, the opportunity to create a multitude of decorative impressions, whether classically formal, strikingly colourful or apparently artless. In this beautifully illustrated guide – now published in paperback for the first time – the self-confessed bibliophile Leslie Geddes-Brown offers inspirational yet practical ideas about how to make the most of books in every room and forgotten nook of the house. In her introduction, Geddes-Brown emphasizes the versatility and lasting power of books, while subsequent chapters explore every conceivable option for storing and displaying them. ‘Living with Books’ shows how they can enhance the atmosphere of a home, making it a welcoming and memorable place. ‘Working with Books’ considers different ways of arranging essential reference books, from the library that is a paragon of order and logic to the seemingly chaotic piles of books an author might need constantly at their elbow or stacked about the floor. ‘Designing for Books’ explores stylish storage, shelving and lighting solutions, and provides tips on combining books with other objects to create effects that lift an interior out of the ordinary. Finally, ‘Making the Most of Books’ suggests ingenious ways in which to exploit to the full their enduringly irresistible appeal. From the dramatic impact of floor-to-ceiling shelves to the inviting ease of baskets of books by a cosy fireside; and from discreet shelves that blend into the background to a designer bookcase that becomes the focal point of a room, all the key aspects are considered. Lavishly illustrated throughout with photographs featuring homes from around the world and with an annotated directory of suppliers, this engaging guide will inspire all bibliophiles to get the best from their beloved books and transform any room into an alluring and magical place.