"The Distinctive Life" presented by the Distinctive Collection

INTERIOR DESIGN

BOOKSHELVES One absolute library essential is

bookshelves. They can be made of wood, metal or anything you can imagine as long as it is sturdy. They can go horizontal or vertical– anything goes! Many bibliophiles seek out tradition and use the floor-to ceiling shelved design that is a hallmark of Oxford’s prized library. There is another way to house books that is a modernized take on the classic. Turn your book collection on its ear with beautiful shelves built on a diagonal. By turning your book collection in a new direction, you introduce a bold, geometric pattern that foregoes the need to include wall art and makes your shrine to the written word into the focal point of interest. If your layout does not permit you to build across, go vertical and build skywards. Custom touches can include velvet lining or intricately carved details. Whether stretching across new literary horizons or reaching toward the heavens, link the color of the rest of the room to the color of the shelves.

LIGHTING Illuminating a library is tricky, especially if your collection has rare books that require special housing. Those delicate pages and spines must avoid direct sunlight and unstable temperatures. Natural light through windows or skylights should be filtered with drapes or blinds to avoid bleaching your precious collection. Explore other options such as recessed lighting, which allows you to take advantage of any space in the ceiling and walls for a glow rather than a spotlight. Lamps placed throughout your library ensure that each reader will receive ample lighting to avoid straining their eyes. Get creative and install chandeliers or wall sconces for a dramatic look. Set the right mood for reading with downlights atop bookshelves, or highlight your collection with track lighting or in-shelf puck lights. For a truly optimal mood enhancer, include a fireplace that will not only light your library but provide heat as well.

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| THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE®

Volume 1�