What is a Bathroom Library?
So….what is a bathroom library, exactly?! This term just came across my radar, & I have to say: I LOVE it. For book-lovers, especially ones who enjoy relaxing in the tub ~ this may be your perfect new trend. It’s essentially the adding of any kind of book shelves to your bathroom…especially in & around the bath tub. In the photo below, you can see how they’ve added recessed bookshelves behind the bath, creating a gorgeous focal point for the room. In this article, we’ll take a look at a ton of photos, to give you inspiration for creating your own cozy bath area….
How to Create Your Own Bathroom Library?? To create a setting like the one above, you’ll need to speak with a carpenter who can build recessed shelves into your existing drywall. For a less expensive option, place floating wood shelves on the walls around your tub ~ or use a tall bookshelf, if you have a large bathroom space to work with.
Photos of Beautiful Bath Libraries
When I first typed in “Bath Library” to Google, images that came up were of actual libraries in the city of Bath, England (in the Cotswolds)! Not what I was looking for ; ) There were also some veryyy unflattering images of unattractive bathrooms in public libraries around the States. Again…not what I was looking for!
So I had to get a little creative to round up these photos below, that give all different kinds of ideas for creating a library or reading nook in your bathroom….
How to Create a Bathroom Library
- Have a contractor or carpenter add recessed bookshelves on either side of a bathtub, or on the wall behind the bathtub. Or, for a “Full Library” effect, add shelves on all three walls surrounding the tub!
- For a more subtle look (that will also cost less), buy your own bookshelves to add to the walls of your bathroom ~ or purchase an actual bookcase (tall or short) to really create a library feel.
- Match the shelves you choose to the look of your home: modern homes can use industrial-type bookshelves, while vintage/bohemian homes may want to scour antique stores for rustic side tables or small, used bookshelves. Traditional homes work well with traditional recessed or built-in bookshelves, & French country homes would do well to use oak or distressed wood shelving. Or, take a cue from Joanna Gaines, & use Antique Wax to make any kind of bookshelves look older & more “lived-in.”
- While you’re making your bathroom a cozier place to be, consider adding a chandelier ~ & if you have the space, a comfy reading chair, to truly create a little reading nook/great place to unwind.
Other Whimsical Reading Nook Ideas…
Get inspired to create your own little reading nook by taking a look at the clever ideas below. Inspired designers have created mini-libraries on porches, in cozy attics & She Sheds, & in other spots that may otherwise have gone unused.
You don’t need a ton of space to create the perfect little reading area.
What is a Bathroom Library?
I hope you’ve enjoyed this post on an up-and-coming design trend! If I figure out how to incorporate this into my own bath area, I’ll update this post with more photos…
xoxo Noelia
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I’ve never heard of a bathroom library…but I love this idea! Whether you’re in the tub or on the toilet (sorry!) ha the bathroom really is a great place to read a book. Will have to ask my husband how he can make this happen in our bath!
Haha Haylie ~ I totally agree with you! It’s such a good idea, I can’t believe I didn’t think of it myself! xoxo