House of Books

The House of Books is a recently completed renovation and addition that collects a family’s literary treasures in spaces filled with natural light. The existing two-story home was rebuilt from the front room back, within the same footprint, and a third floor was added. The partial basement was underpinned and expanded into a full floor for bicycle storage and a rec room.

The project transforms the childhood home of a teacher and his partner, also an academic, into a welcoming and functional space that reflects their shared love for books and their growing family. With an extensive collection of books, two children, and a new puppy, the couple sought a home that would be both practical and inspiring, combining their passion for learning with the comfort of family life. Central to the project was the kitchen, which evolved from a narrow back-of-house cooking space into a vibrant hub.

The kitchen now features an expansive layout that includes ample counter space, ideal for preparing meals while keeping the family connected. Lining the walls, the custom-built bookshelves showcase the family’s library, transforming the kitchen into a space for intellectual stimulation and a celebration of family history, with many of the books having been passed down through generations.

A cozy reading nook is woven into the design, offering the perfect spot to escape while being a part of the bustling family activities in the kitchen. The nook is framed by windows that flood the space with natural light, creating an inviting corner.

The bookshelves extend into the adjacent spaces of the home, integrated into hallways, bedrooms, and the living room. In the living room, shelves surround the renovated fireplace. The bedrooms feature built-in bookshelves that function as both decorative elements and functional storage.

In addition to its functional features, the renovation pays homage to the home’s original charm while introducing contemporary design elements that cater to the couple’s modern lifestyle. A feature stair opens onto the driveway, allowing the family who are avid cyclists, direct access to the basement bicycle storage. The stair connects all three floors, drawing light from skylights set into the figured roof.  The warm wood tones, classic finishes, and custom shelving create a harmonious balance between old and new, making this renovated home a perfect reflection of its owners—welcoming, intelligent, and full of character.

Photos by Scott Norsworthy