Unwind | Libraries

Books are tangible pathways that lead to different worlds; whether its reliving the past, imagining the future, or traveling to a place that could only exist in your wildest of dreams, escaping into the depths of a good story has long been a pastime. In this week’s installment of Unwind, discover homes from around the world with libraries and reading spaces perfect for relaxing with a good book.

$15,000,000 USD | New York, New York | Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

Perched atop a prewar coop, this recently and fully renovated penthouse is distinguished by incredible light and spectacular views. Beautifully scaled rooms with multiple exposures and corner outlooks abound, and the unique charm and grace of a Rosario Candela penthouse is present throughout. Notable features include a light-filled library, French doors opening onto the many wrap-around terraces, vistas of Central Park, ample blue sky, and views of the surrounding building towers and far beyond.

$8,000,000 USD | Chapultepec, Mexico | Guadalajara Sotheby’s International Realty

This English-inspired residence sits behind wrought walls and security gates, accessed by a private driveway. Inside, a marble-floored gallery runs east to west across the front of the home, leading to the office and games room/library on the main floor. At the left of the gallery a doorway opens into impressive formal living and dining areas; gracefully illuminated by natural light, both open out to sandstone-paved terraces.

2.098.000 € EUR | Hessen, Germany | Peters & Peters Sotheby’s International Realty

This special villa, which was extensively renovated in 2003, is characterized by its harmonious atmosphere, style and color; its large-area windows, spacious balcony as well as additional terraces ensures that its occupants has a ubiquitous view of the constantly green vistas of an idyllic garden. The ground floor of the villa is devoted to sharing time with family or welcoming guests in an impressive setting – the corner-installed library is a striking take on the classic amenity.

3 200 000 $ CAD | British Columbia, Canada | Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

Local Salt Spring Island architect Henry (Hank) Schubart, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, designed a home that would take advantage of the island’s distinctive features minimum disturbance. The result was the present house, completed in 1985. Hank designed the home around the existing, old-growth fir trees and used post-and-beam internal framing and large decks to create a feeling of living within the landscape, rather than imposing on it. The current owners supervised construction of a new studio and guesthouse, again designed by Hank Schubart. The new buildings continued with Hank’s theme of post and beam construction, with local Galiano builders Struen Robertson and Lars Lilholt adding their own creative touches.

$1,900,000 USD | Ladue, Missouri | Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty

Situated on a private lot in Ladue, this expansive home offers spaces for both intimate and hosting opportunities; whether it’s a comfortable night in front of the fireplace or one nestled in a comfy chair within the library, or entertaining a large group throughout the residence’s layout, this home is suitable for all. From the front door, you walk into a two-story entry hall, looking into a gorgeous and spacious living room. The spacious gourmet kitchen opens to the hearth room for family gatherings.

Experience the previous installments of Unwind