Things that Inspire recently did a post about studies and libraries and what the technical differences are. It was fun to read and to see the architectural detailing and furnishings that technically define each room as a den, library, study, etc. Be sure to visit Holly’s site, you will find plenty of beauty and inspiration.
Since a study, library or den, by most definitions, would be what I describe as my favorite room in the house, I thought I’d share some rooms that I’ve recently pinned and consider cozy and inviting.
Kelly, over at Talk of the House recently shared this room, furnished with black and white checked everything. I love this room because by using one pattern it feels like a ‘neutral’. It’s a relaxing room because of the black and white check.
The above room could be considered the ‘den’ since it screams cozy to me. The books, overstuffed sofa and Jack Russell terrier invite me in. But, since there are bookcases, I suppose I could accept a descriptive of ‘library’ just as easily and family room or den.
The room below would qualify as a study were it not for the fact that it might be a spot within a larger room, maybe a living room. I see an upholstered chair or sofa just to the right of the desk. I like the wall gallery above the desk, it gives definition to the space and adds interest, don’t you think?
The warm wood, antique books, hunt scene painting, fireplace and Persian rug are ingredients I consider essential components of a wonderful library and/or den. There’s a TV so I believe this would most probably qualify as a den. (Mark D. Sikes)
The room below is a favorite because I love being able to see what’s going on outside when I’m reading or working on the computer. The windows at ceiling level create a tree house ambiance. I could envision a nap in the alcove, after my work is finished, of course!
Now this is a study! I love the French doors and and built-in bookcase.
{Jennings & Gates: Notes from a Virginia Country House}
Pottery Barn called this command center. Looks efficient, doesn’t it?
A study with focus. I know I’d probably not get very much done here…I’d be daydreaming out the window a majority of the time, but I like the simplicity of the space.
Another Mark D. Sikes design. I love the beams, the book cases, the view and the fireplace…this room seems to have it all (except a television, which might be a good thing).
Do you have a favorite cozy corner in your home? What do you call it?
jennymein said:
I agree with you Karen. A library is also one of my favourite rooms. I love a wall of books, plenty pictures/paintings and squashy, comfy sofas. All the rooms shown here are immensely welcoming, beautifully-lit, decorated with pretty things and furnishings but all done with such simplicity and charm. I particularly like photo no. 2 with that gorgeous sofa and the mix of pinks and reds in fabric and rug. Another favourite is photo no.3 with the collection of pictures and the lovely painted desk!
Karen B. said:
Hi Jenny,
It’s bliss when the functionality of a study/library can marry cozy inviting books and comfortable chair with a desk for some work! 😀 I hope you are having a pleasant spring.
xo,
Karen
Victoria • Restoring our Victorian said:
The French doors and bookcases win my vote… along with the room on the other side and pretty much everything else about it.
It’s actually going to be WARM today, here. SO exciting…I’m committing to getting off the computer at a reasonable time and actually going OUTSIDE… I’m becoming a blog-hermit.
Karen B. said:
Victoria, I’m so happy to hear your area is enjoying some warmer temps. You can use your shiny new trowel and create a pretty garden. 😀 Karen
4aroundthetable said:
The French doors, the books, the VIEW.. I love that photo Karen! I really don’t have a special nook. My desk, kitchen, and large sectional is where I spend my mornings:)
It’s finally warming up here (60 degrees!) I’m looking forward to gardening soon:)
xxleslie
Karen B. said:
Hi Leslie,
I use my kitchen for most of my desk work as well. Our study is not my favorite room since it is primarily dominated by Mr. B and his stuff. I liked the room with the French doors best, as well. Karen
Linda Coble said:
Karen,
Loved the photos — all those beautiful rooms with wonderful furnishings and views. While I don’t really have a special corner where I can relax and have quiet time, I suppose I like the great room in our house. The large windows that look out on the forest are always so relaxing to me.
Your reading room is still my favorite! Comfy, relaxing and with a view to your eye-popping garden.
Karen B. said:
Thanks, Linda. I would trade my cozy reading room for your view of the forest anyday. 😀 xo, Karen
Kelly - Talk of the House said:
Thank you so very much for the shout out! Loved all these photos, but especially the salon ru one. I keep coming back to that one for inspiration for our room over the garage – and what in the world do you call THAT kind of space?? The bonus room? I use the term study when the desk is the main functional piece in the room. I have a hard time knowing what to call our great room/living room/den. All the children call it a den…but I think of a den as small, and this room is large with a huge wall of bookshelves. Too many terms to choose from when the space is multifunctional!
Karen B. said:
Hi Kelly, I know what you mean, the post on architectural details that indicate the name of a space was really interesting. I tend to call most rooms of a certain size a family room, anything on the smaller side is either a library (lots of bookshelves) or a study (a desk). Ha, ha, ha. Karen
Gretchen said:
These are all such lovely rooms – no matter what name they are given! I would like to combine elements from each to create an inviting, restful library/study. Our family room is the closest room we have to a library, but it’s really more of a multi purpose room. It’s usually too distracting to try to read in there so I retreat to our master bedroom where an overstuffed chair and ottoman welcome me. It’s just a corner but at least it has a nice view of the trees!
Karen B. said:
I can see how your master bedroom, with the comfortable chair and ottoman would be a favorite spot for reading and relaxing. I love the inviting feel of your family room as wel. xox, Karen
Sent from my iPad