We were approached by the client to transform their snug room into a library. The brief was to create the feeling of a fitted library with plenty of open shelving but also storage cupboards to hide things away. The worry with bookcases on all walls its that the space can look and feel cluttered and dark. We suggested using painted shelves with integrated cupboards on the lower levels as a way to bring a cohesive colour scheme and look to the room. Lower shelves are often under-utilised anyway so having cupboards instead gives flexible storage without spoiling the look of the library. The bookcases are painted in Mylands Oratory with burnished brass knobs by Armac Martin. We included lighting and the cupboards also hide the power points and data cables to maintain the low-tech emphasis in the library. The finished space feels traditional, warm and perfectly suited to the traditional house.