Every library should try to be complete on something, if it were only the history of pinheads.
—Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. (1809-1894)

A home library, more than any room in a home, has the potential to reflect the essence of its owner. Here is a place to organize and keep those books that are both acquaintances and lifelong friends. The home library is also often where collections are kept, if only because they make such good companions for books.

Both collections and books record the passing and lasting interests and passions of its owner–and deserve a room of their own.

And though a home library would likely complement and merge with the design of the home, the quintessential home library would likely offer features such as:

• Rich wood shelving that may even reach ceiling height. A rolling ladder works well here.

• Wood or stone flooring covered with collectible area rug(s).

• At least two very comfortable reading chairs with lamp(s).

• A writing table or desk. The home library should be a perfect room for thinking and writing.

• A library fireplace would be favored by many–and provides a warm ambiance.

The home library is a logical place to store and display personal collections and passions–especially if there is abundant shelving and/or cabinets. A family friend in Houston had a library full of rich wood shelving that housed not only a massive collection of leather bound books, but also an impressive array of Native American wood carvings. The library also served as his home office–and was undoubtedly his favorite room in the home.

The ultimate home library (pictured), though, may belong to internet entrepeneur Jay Walker, who also founded Priceline.com.  In a recent Wired interview, Walker gave writer Steven Levy a tour of his 3600 square foot library that is primarily devoted to those things that change the way we think.  His New England home library houses not only a Russian sputnik, but jewel-encrusted books, a raptor skeleton, Civil War surgical tools and thousands of other books and collectibles.

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What kinds of rooms might go into a luxury home? The possibilities are as varied as lifestyles.

I recall a luxurious mansion in Houston’s lovely River Oaks that had, in addition to every other conceivable room, a luggage room. It was a sensible space that accommodated the traveling owner’s large collection of leather suitcases, trunks and garment bags. When a trip was planned, the butler would retrieve the appropriate luggage and assist with the packing.

When expense and space are not restrictive issues, the floor plan of a luxury home can truly reflect the lifestyle of its owner.

Some of the more common possibilities might include:

• A large morning room off the kitchen for casual family dining. This is simply an expansion of the traditional breakfast room.
• Large formal dining rooms still prevail and are a must for indoor formal entertaining.
• A butler’s pantry between the kitchen and formal dining area that may be equipped with china cabinets, lined flatware drawers, crystal storage and wine refrigeration.
• An oversized and well-organized pantry in the kitchen that has room for a freezer.
• A master closet that invites relaxation.
• A temperature-controlled wine room that might even accommodate a tasting table or two.
• A game room that might hold a pool table, arcade games and even a karaoke stage.
• A high-ceilinged music room for the grand piano and other musical enjoyment.
• Forget strip closets. Luxury homes demand oversized and highly organized walk-in dressing rooms.
• Personal gyms are a common requirement in luxury homes. They are typically located off the master bedroom or near outdoor amenities.
• The plush home theater with cushy seats, popcorn machine and huge screen have become very popular.
• A home library offers a quiet room for books, reading and reflection.
• A conservatory provides a glass-walled transition between the luxury residence and its natural surroundings–and is a lovely spot for casual entertaining.
• A sunroom may be located anywhere in the home, but provides a casual place to enjoy sunshine and views.
• Home offices are often a requirement for busy owners and their staff.
• Outdoor living rooms and areas are treasured in warmer climates. See photo above.
• A large laundry and project room may have multiple washers and dryers, a steam closet, and cabinets for project storage. It should also have space for a large, multi-purpose table.
• A snoring room off the master bedroom. Enough said….

Common to luxury homes in San Diego are loggias and fully-equipped outdoor kitchens, which allow for year round outdoor dining and entertaining. It is also not uncommon to find poolside cabanas, dressing rooms and steam rooms. In mountain communities, luxury chalets will likely have mud rooms and ski lockers.

As suggested earlier, it is the lifestyle and taste of the affluent that will ultimately determine the configuration of their luxury homes.

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