This imposing panelled library has recently been designed, made and installed in a Highland manor house by Dougal Black Carpentry. The client requested a room in keeping with the age and style of the house which could have a number of functions. It would need to have a large capacity for books and other media while having the capability to be used as a conference space and also a dining room.
The resultant classic design incorporates a mix of American and Scottish oak, styled with reference to the architecture of the house and carefully finished in warm honey-toned lacquer and wax. This, along with the floor-to-ceiling panelling, the tall three-tier bookcases and the large soft-close sliding pocket doors combine to lend this unique library privacy and peace. So that the same room can accommodate dinner parties, an integral sideboard with drawers and cupboard space is positioned centrally on one wall. This has a granite serving counter backed by a veneered panel with a mantel shelf on deep corbels, topped with a triptych mirror. When required, a hidden 72″ touchscreen monitor concealed below the main window can be raised by remote control to facilitate lectures, meetings and study sessions.
The cabinetry extends around three walls and has three distinct levels, the top one being reached by climbing the specially made oak ladder with its turned hand-hold. Deeply recessed panelling covers the remaining walls, incorporating tall skirting boards, dado rail and picture rail. Other details such as the tall fluted columns, turned finials and castellated wavecrest friezes add uniqueness and gravitas to this multi-purpose room.
If you have ideas for something along these lines, please feel free to contact Dougal for a no-obligation conversation.
