1999 Decorators' Show House    Library

The paneled library, with its Grinling Gibbons-style fireplace and bay window surrounded by tall bookcases, is the heart of the home.  An antique Oushak rug vibrant with terra cottas, creams and golds, is the anchor for a warm chinoiserie linen combined with a crisp taffeta stripe and passementerie that frame the window.  Fabrics and trims were supplied by Zoffany.

The comfortable English caned library chairs and cozy club chairs are provided with ample light for reading.  An eye-catching tole lamp encourages visitors to inspect a book on an English drum table.  The leather club fender at the hearth expands seating when needed.  Antique porcelains and busts share space on the shelves with leather-bound volumes.  Italian prints are mounted in hand-finished frames.  A period Federal mirror adds sparkle to the mantel.

In this up-to-date household, the television set is housed in an antique bookcase, and the laptop goes anywhere.