Bound To Impress: Homes With Handsome Libraries

Nothing compares to the experience of relaxing with a good book. From light-filled and contemporary to formal and wood-clad, these five libraries are ideal for displaying and enjoying a collection of favored volumes.

Luxurious Light-Filled Loft

With a versatile layout and numerous oversized windows providing wonderful light and views of Flatiron District landmarks, this custom-designed 1,671-square-foot loft is the largest two-bedroom residence in the Cammeyer building, which once housed the world’s largest shoe store. It features a Poggenpohl kitchen, a den or office with a Murphy bed, an inviting living and dining room, and a vibrant library with built-in seating and sliding aluminum and frosted-glass doors. An auxiliary storage room, located on the same floor, is included in the purchase price.

Park Avenue Refinement

In one of the city’s highly regarded full-service prewar cooperative buildings, this distinguished full-floor five-bedroom residence benefits from picturesque views of Park Avenue and glorious light from windows facing in three directions. Highlights include an inviting collection of entertaining areas, among them a spacious dining room, a generously proportioned living room, and a study. In the quiet bedroom wing, the impressive primary suite and two lovely guest bedrooms are linked by a delightful shelf-lined library.

Extraordinary Escape in Beverly Park South

This seven-bedroom, 13,500-square-foot estate in exclusive gated Beverly Park South enjoys breathtaking views and is filled with exceptional details—from artisanal crown moldings to eye-catching parquet floors. Among its sophisticated spaces are a chic living room with a distinctive wet bar, a home theater, a gym with a sauna and a steam room, and a handsome paneled library with plentiful bookshelves and a fireplace. The enveloping 2.03 verdant acres include a stately terrace, a regal pool and spa, and colorful gardens.

Striking Houston Contemporary

The light-flooded interiors of this striking 5,297-square-foot contemporary in River Oaks boast an airy open floor plan featuring impressively stylish spaces for living and entertaining, with walls of glass and walls ideal for showcasing art. Just beyond the formal living room is a library with floor-to-ceiling windows and bookshelves as well as a spiral staircase leading to a second-level loft. The luxurious backyard, which includes a swimming pool with a waterfall, is overlooked by covered outdoor sitting areas on two levels.

Montecito Majesty

An aura of Old World refinement pervades this majestic home on 43 acres, the largest ocean view estate in Montecito. Benefitting from a coveted location in the community’s “golden quadrangle,” it features sweeping vistas, formal living and dining rooms, a chef’s kitchen, a large family room, seven bedrooms, a game room, a gym, a video lounge, a regal pool terrace, and a library with richly hued wood paneling and shelves. Nearby is a three-bedroom guesthouse with a four-car garage.

This article was originally published in Sotheby’s International Realty’s Extraordinary Living Blog.