Building a hidden library for my children was not just a renovation project; it was a dream woven with imagination and love, quickly becoming one of the most cherished endeavors of my life. While we enlisted the expertise of professional contractors, as this was far beyond the realm of a DIY project, I believe there’s still much to share about the intricate process of designing and bringing this magical space to life.
When we first purchased our home, it boasted a two – story entryway, often referred to as a “lawyer foyer,” a telltale sign of a 1990s McMansion. The initial allure of this architectural feature was undeniable. In the photos taken from various angles, the grandeur of the entryway was evident. Standing at the front door, looking up, or peering down from the second floor, it presented a unique and eye – catching sight. During our first viewing, I found myself drawn to these details, never imagining that I would one day consider altering them.
However, after six months of living in the house and planning renovations for the living spaces, my perspective shifted. The two – story entryway, once charming, now felt off. It had a strange, unappealing vibe and proved to be a decorating challenge. But I wasn’t deterred. The downstairs ceilings were high enough that I wasn’t worried about the entryway feeling cramped after the change, and with an abundance of natural light flooding in through the living space’s sliding doors, I was willing to sacrifice some light for a more functional and aesthetically pleasing area.
The day construction began was filled with a mix of nerves and excitement. As I watched the transformation unfold, there was a sense of finality, that “no turning back” moment. The first step was adding a floor, which completely changed the dynamics of the space. Following that, we drywalled the ceiling, installed electrical fixtures, and laid down beautiful wood floors in the new upstairs room. This room, separate from the others, connected only to the foyer at the top of the stairs, presenting a blank canvas for creativity.
Deciding what to do with this hidden room was an exhilarating process. Its size, comparable to a walk – in closet, required careful consideration of its purpose. We could have left it with an open, arched entrance, but the idea of a truly hidden door, inspired by the magic of Narnia, was irresistible. I wanted to create a space that would be a delightful surprise, a secret world for my children.
The search for the perfect armoire to conceal the door was an adventure in itself. For months, I scoured the world of vintage furniture, hunting for an armoire that fit our space’s measurements. I needed one that was large yet simple on the inside, free from excessive drawers and compartments. My perseverance paid off when I discovered the ideal piece on Etsy.
Once the armoire arrived, the real work of integrating it into the space began. We decided to build it into the wall to reduce its depth and ensure it didn’t obstruct the landing room door. Removing its legs was a difficult decision, a sacrifice necessary to make it fit within the constraints of the nook’s inflexible roofline. To make the armoire blend seamlessly, we added a busy floral wallpaper, and finally, we cut a functioning door into its back and installed a handle on the inside.
Now, when guests enter the room, they’re completely oblivious to the armoire’s secret. And it’s become my children’s favorite party trick to reveal the hidden library, their eyes sparkling with pride as they share their special space.
Stepping inside the hidden library is like entering a world of wonder. Built – in shelves line both sides, providing ample space for our growing collection of books. The walls, painted in “Silent Film” by Behr, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. My older daughter, who’s learning to read, has spent countless happy hours here, and it’s been a joy to watch her explore the world of books in this magical space. With vintage treasures like the rug and chandelier from Etsy, along with charming art prints, the hidden library is a haven of imagination, a place where memories are made and stories come to life.
