The library

The Library

Part of the old house, this room was originally divided into two, but I knocked through to create a perfectly rectangular space that is now my library and office.

• Sitting between the two main spaces of the house, this library really is the heart of the home.
• I brought the walls in by 30cm to enable the Regency-style bookcases to be set within them. The bookcases just have very simple beading outlining them against the wall. I love the incredible atmosphere that books bring to a room.
• I was hugely inspired by the incredible work of Italian architect, set designer and decorator Renzo Mongiardino. His work inspired me to design the wallcovering, which is hand-painted by Alistair Erskine.
• The desk is Edwardian and was bought at auction. The sofa is covered in 'Kashimir', by Jasper Textiles, at Michael S Smith Inc, and the footstool is in 'Fez Weave' by Guy Goodfellow. I also have a few pieces of furniture by Italian designer Carlo Bugatti.
• The fireplace was made by Jamb and is a black marble that almost looks like slate. Above it sits a very early 19th-century Berber embroidery.
• Most of the rooms I design are typically understated and serene, but this room is the exact opposite. However, there is still a tangible harmony between each disparate piece.
• I love to hang paintings over bookcases with a picture rail and chains to give even more atmosphere.

Further Reading

• Renzo Mongiardino
• James McBey
• Oliver Messel
• John Lavery

Sourcebook

• Alistair Erskine
• 'Kashimir', by Jasper Textiles, at Michael S Smith Inc
• Carlo Bugatti
• Jamb
• 'Fez Weave', by Guy Goodfellow
• Roger Fry