DIY Network

Lighting, Prints and Accessories Lighting, Prints and Accessories From "Weekend Decorating" episode WDC-207

This library is not cluttered with a lot of furnishings, allowing the lighting to function as a really strong design element in the room. Since the ceilings are vaulted, and in keeping with classic library design, a pendant light with Old World iron embellishments will hang about 8 feet down from the ceiling, providing the primary source of light (figure A).

Figure A

The client chair.

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	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G
	Figure H

When installing lighting in a library, you need to provide three types of light -- ambient to see where you are going, task to be able to work or read and accent lighting to cast light on bookshelves or accessories. Always think about the proportions of the room when considering overhead lighting, and when selecting task lighting, make sure it does not cause distracting shadows.

Bulb selection is also important for lighting. For an overhead light in a library, the shade should cover the bulbs, so you will not look up, directly into the bulb, and when choosing bulbs, keep in mind bulbs that replicate natural daylight if you are doing a lot of reading or detailed work. This type of bulb is the most appropriate for seeing fine detail.

Sconce lighting is added the wall close to the loft area (figure B). It will add light and warmth to the bare wall, and it compliments the hanging light, while adding additional light to the loft area.

Wall Accents

The homeowner loves maps, and they make an inexpensive way to add life to the walls of the room, while continuing the elegant, Old World theme of the room (figure C).

1. Choose frames from a home store that compliment your paint and decor.

2. For a frame mat, buy sheets of cork: these are also available at a home store.

3. Cut the cork to the frame size and stain it using regular stain. You can choose the stain color to accent your walls, and when dry, not only will you will have a unique texture, but an inexpensive mat option for your artwork.

4. Select old map prints: they prints used here were chosen from a calendar, and taken to a copy store to have them enlarged to the desired size (figure D).

5. Put the cork backing with the frame backing, and center the map prints on the cork (figure E).

6. Secure the map prints in place with decorative upholstery tacks (figure F).

7. Hang your new prints on the wall.

Fill the shelves with books, add desk, chairs, rug (figure G) and decorative accessories (figure H). The loft has a small bistro table and chairs for a casual meal while doing research, or meeting with clients. The completed room is now a well-outfitted, masculine room that is both functional and classically elegant.