The timeless allure of a book remains unrivaled. Even amid our digital era, the escapist qualities of a fictional world endures, meaning it is the basis for a truly enchanting renovation project. Before succumbing to the eternal charm of a fairytale in your home decor, look towards these five design tips from this Latvian library, designed by the architecture office GAISS in Riga.
This youthful utopia epitomizes fantastical design, from its color-glazed shelf grid to its ingenious use of hammocks - these tips will leave you feeling completely inspired.
See: Playroom Ideas - 30 Wonderful and Whimsical Kids Playrooms
1. Create an arched doorway
There is no greater place to begin than at the very start of the room - the doorway. Create a surreal first impression that sets the tone for the rest of this enchanting space by taking architectural notes from GAISS and creating an arched doorway. This entrance will separate the room from other more conventional spaces - emphasizing to children and adults alike that this is unlike any other area in your home.
2. Choose flexible furniture
Beyond these Lativain design tips, we're also taking notes from the library's clever use of multi-purpose furniture. Look to durable pieces, similar to those in the central reading area, which is filled with movable pieces of furniture. This library exhibits stacks of plywood cubes that can be rearranged to fit any purpose - and this multifunctionality is a wonderful and whimsical playroom idea.
We recommend choosing child-friendly pieces, such as mini storage stools and light tables, which are oozing with versatility.
3. Focalise nature
Perhaps the most notable feature of this library is its bold collection of red tree sculptures, which pay tribute to the organic, yet surreal beauty of its fairytale forest theme. If you're reluctant to mirror these daring crimson structures entirely, you can still steal elements of this natural wonderland by injecting large pots or bold plant-themed wallpaper around your room. These equally magical techniques will still bring these otherworldly fictional landscapes to life in your home.
4. Design a sophisticated storage system
As this is a library, we're not surprised to see GAISS has prioritized its shelving grid system - which frames the rainbow- glazed book covers and brings the tiles into the forefront of the space.
While we can only ever dream of showcasing as many hardbacks as this magical space, we're feeling inspired to use our own favorite books as accessories that will drench our decor in nostalgia and personality.
See: Kids room ideas - 45 fresh ideas for a modern yet whimsical kids bedroom
5. Add fishnet while keeping an open plan
Choosing an open plan design is a perfect way to ensure your room boasts the light and airy feel of a verdant forest; however, you still need to consider the functionality and safety of a space. Therefore, look towards GAISS' best-loved technique: Fishnets. You can use durable textile to create a unique tropical hanging hammock, as seen in the library, or use it to partition sections of the room without breaking the flow with large hard furnishings or a wall.
You certainly don't need to be a child to enjoy these wonderfully fantastical design tips.
