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Library Dreams! Welcome to the 57th Metamorphosis Monday!
Between Naps on the Porch: Library Dreams! Welcome to the 57th Metamorphosis Monday!

Between Naps on the Porch

Between Naps on the Porch is a lifestyle blog with an emphasis on Decorating, Tablescaping, Before and Afters, Thrify Finds, and Gardening.

Feb 14, 2010

Library Dreams! Welcome to the 57th Metamorphosis Monday!

On a previous Met Monday, I took you into my "formal" living room that really isn't a formal living room. It's actually been more of a storage room over the years...which is kind of sad since it's the very first room you see when you walk into my home. I have some big plans for it...one day. You can read about those HERE in this previous Met Monday post.


When I found one of the main components for this metamorphosis, these 85 year old cabinets/niches you see below, I called up my contractor and had him come take a look.


He had concerns about having enough space to build a wall in which to sink the cabinets since the space is limited due to how close the window is to the niche on the right side. He also was concerned about it being deep enough for the fireplace. By the way, I won't be using this mantel...most likely one will be built on site for the space. I suggested having the fireplace jutting out a bit into the room with the niches set back a bit. He looked at me like I had just grown an extra head or two. :-) Oh, he of little faith!


Fast forward to a couple of months ago when I attended the monthly board meeting for a garden club of which I'm a member. We meet each month in this wonderful historic home pictured below.


We always have our meetings in the dining room of this beautiful old home. Each month, just for fun, I treat myself to a peek into the adjacent rooms and soak up the beautiful furnishings and architecture. Look what I found in the parlor/music room...how have I missed it?! I finally remembered to take my camera last week and snapped a few pics for you all. This is it...just what I need to do in my future library!


Notice how tight the space is between the cabinet/niche over by the window...and notice how the cabinets are set back a little with the fireplace protruding out a bit into the room. Yep, this is just what I needed to show my contractor. :-) And it's been right under my nose for the last 3 years!


Here's a little close up of the left cabinet/niche...


And here's the one on the right. This room was a bit tricky to photograph because there is a huge grand piano right smack in the middle. You can just see a bit of it in this pic below.


Yep...I think it will work just fine...can't wait to show these pics to my contractor...now I just need to save my pennies and get my dream of a library actually underway. :-)


Looking forward to seeing all your "Before and Afters."


If pics appear cut off on the right side, please adjust your screen resolution to a higher setting.



Metamorphosis Monday is an opportunity to show a "Before and After" project in your home. It can be as elaborate as a whole new room addition or as simple as re-doing your decor with the changing of the seasons. Maybe you have a "trash to treasure" project to share...we'd love to see it! If you don't have a "Before" pic to share, describe as best you can what the room or item looked like prior to the renovation.

If you are participating in Metamorphosis Monday, please be sure to add your permalink below, and not your general blog address. If you aren't sure how to obtain your permalink or have any questions about using Mr. Linky for this post, just click HERE for detailed instructions.

Don't forget to copy and paste the Met Monday logo button to your computer so you can add it to your side bar and your Met Monday post. That way visitors will know that your are participating in Metamorphosis Monday.

Please be sure to link back to the host blog, Between Naps on the Porch, so your fellow bloggers who are participating today, will get lots of visits, as well.

Please do not add your link below until your Met Monday post is actually published to your blog.

Fabulous "Before and Afters" await your visit:

Labels:

76 Comments:

At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Anonymous Christi @ A Southern Life said...

I love the inspiration cabinets. Can't wait to see how your contractor uses the cabinets you have!

Christi @ A Southern Life

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

How beautiful, Susan! I can't wait to see how you transform your living room! I hope you are having a great weekend!...hugs...Debbie

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Low Tide High Style said...

Your library is going to be beautiful and that is the perfect picture to show your contractor, simply gorgeous!

How wonderful that you have such a lovely place to hold your garden club meetings too!

Kat :)

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Rattlebridge Farm said...

I've always loved this room. It's going to be fun to follow you on this journey.

I finally started the Dish Project. This week is Phase I. My poor back!
XX00

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Atticmag said...

I so love old homes with beautiful cabinetry. Mr "he of little faith" has just met his match in you Susan!
Happy Presidents Day
Jane T..

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger {oc cottage} said...

Ohhhhhhhhhhh! My kingdom for shelves just like those! They are so "Pride & Prejudice"! (and I adore that convex mirror!!!!)

m ^..^

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Paula@SweetPea said...

Your room will be really pretty when your project is complete. I hope you'll be able to start on it soon.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Andrea @ The Dawley Fam said...

Looking forward to seeing all the before and afters!

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger xinex said...

Your library/living room will be so pretty, Susan. I am already imagining it....Christine

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Kathysue said...

Susan you and I have the same dream but you are way ahead of me , You already have some of the components, I only have the room,hehe. Can't wait to follow along with this project. I did a post on this very look being on my Someday list!! It is so perfect for your gorgeous home. Kathysue

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Remodelaholic said...

Oh la la! When I first glanced through I thought they were the same room, just finished... I can't wait to see what you do! AND I LOVE your sofa fabric. Love it love it! I would love a whole house tour, let me just invite myself over!

Good luck with the room, can't wait to see what you do!

AND thanks for the parties, us bloggers sure love to show off just a bit!! he. he.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger The Muse said...

i can see where your soul took flight...inspiration is waiting around every corner, isn't it?

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Puttering in the Midwest said...

Susan, You are such an inspiration in so many ways. Your blog was the first that I discovered and it got me through a rough patch! Thanks so much! Annette

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger The Tablescaper said...

You're working on a magnificant dream and sometimes these dreams take a lot of baby steps. You found the incredible cabinets and now you've been able to photograph just the way they can fit in your beautiful room. You're well on your way. Can't wait to see the finished procuct.

I must say, you're very patient. I'd be using the room the way it is, even without the cabinets being in the walls. It took a long time for me to get my home the way I wanted it (many years). If I had waited for each peice to be perfectly in place before I used the room, there would have been no where for us to live! LOL

Good luck with your plans and dreaming.

- The Tablescaper

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Kim said...

Susan! It's crazy that you had that exact vision for your wall and then boom - you see it just as you pictured. Well, it's just meant to be that's all. I can only imagine all of the pretties you will be putting in those built-ins.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Kim @ Savvy Southern Style said...

Susan, that will be perfect in your room. Can't wait to see the transformation. I have enjoyed linking to this party. I know you are a busy lady, but maybe you will be able to check out my new blog sometime....Kim

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Nancy said...

I subscribe to "anything is possible", too. So glad you found the perfect example close by for your contractor.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Oh Susan, it is going to be so gorgeous. I can't wait to see it all done. So beautiful. Hugs, marty

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Anonymous Andrea at My Feathered Nest said...

What a beautiful place to hold your garden meetings. I, too, am a member of a garden club and we meet in the historical museum every month. They have so many interesting exhibits every time we are there.
My dream would be to have a library in my home, as I used to be a librarian and am an avid book-lover. I commend you on what you've accomplished in your home and really love your blog. Thanks for following my blog too!!
hugs to you
ANDREA

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger susan said...

Susan-I sure hope you can work this out! I loved those pieces when you first showed them to us--love the arched tops! I am betting on you!

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Susan! Happy Valentine's Day! Oh, I know you can do this! You have such great vision and Dear One, your library will be so much prettier than this one!
Be a sweetie,
Shelia :)

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Flory said...

Now that's more like it... so inspiring!

follow me: Living Creatively with Flory
http://flo-ry.blogspot.com/

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger The Muse said...

since i am almost...yes almost back into the swing of being AT HOME :) i sure hope to get more involved with the design of the cottage...

until then, i hope you don't mind me visiting...while i am not yet quite ready for Mr Linky :)

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Jemsmom said...

Stunning!!!! You will make your room fabulous! Can't wait to see it! I have a question for you. Your photography is so beautiful. I know we had talked once about using the tripod and all that. Your photos of the other home are so sharp and bright. Did you use an external flash? You are so very talented!

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

That will look great, Susan! I knew what you were saying before you even showed the pictures. It looks very much like your lay-out, too.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Susan said...

You can do it, Susan! It's absolutely, positively possible! It's going to be gorgeous! Keep that vision. Sincerely, Susan from writingstraightfromtheheart.blogspot.com

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Cottage Dreamers said...

Beautiful post, as always!

I'm participating in Metamorphasis Monday for the first time. Yea! I hope I did it right.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Just a dreamer said...

I have been waiting for what seems like ages to see this one. Wow, it is going to be gorgeous. Oh, and I love that cardinal fireplace screen. You have the neatest stuff, EVER. Can't you just say "charge it"? to get stuff started?!? Jackie A HUGE F

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger agreenearth said...

That house is incredible. Looking forward to seeing your renovations.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Chatty Crone said...

I just wanted to drop by and wish you a Happy Valentine's Day. Sandie

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Anonymous Sarah Sarniak said...

What a transformation! How beautiful! I absolutely love the two cabinets on both sides. And you integrated them so beautifully.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Unknown said...

I can only imagine how beautiful your room is going to turn out. I love the colors in your inspiration room too.

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Anonymous Kelee Katillac said...

Hi Susan!

Gorgeous old home. Yours will look fab too w/ your new cabinets....

Thank-you for hosting Susan!

love,kelee

 
At Sunday, February 14, 2010 , Blogger Chandy said...

My goodness Susan, I'm one hour late joining and I'm already no.69!

What a great post today. Good luck with the renovations!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Fifi Flowers said...

BEAUTIFUL!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Nancy @ Live love laugh said...

You have such vision! That room will be gorgeous! Thanks for sharing it...we can all dream!
~Nancy

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger merilyn lee said...

Looking forward to seeing the room transformed! This is my first time joining, so hope I did this right.
Hope you had a nice Valentines!
Hugs,
Marilyn

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Little Lizard King said...

Your cabinets are almost identical; your library is well on it's way to historic grandeur.

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Kim said...

I love the Garden Center...in fact, I've told both the girls they have to have their wedding receptions there (it's just down the street from our house and our church, so it's a no brainer). A few years ago, when I was co-chair of the Pilgrimage preview party, DOTR and I were cleaning up after the party....I took out the garbage in my ballgown, he locked the front door wearing his tux and flipped off the lights....I said, "I could live here!" It seemed like we should just go upstairs (too bad the Junior League offices are up there instead of bedroooms now!) When I told that story to one of the women on the garden center board, she said...."we might just sell it to you!" Anyway, I love that house passionately!

Great idea for the niches!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Anonymous Beverly @ My Sew Sweet Studio said...

Susan, that is the perfect solution for your new cabinets. My husband is a carpenter and we often have debate like yours with your carpenter. Funny thing is, when my idea works, he always acts like he thought of it first. As long as it gets done....okay by me. Can't wait to see what you come up with for a fireplace mantle too.

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Merlin said...

Ah, PICTURES, glorious pictures! Still worth inumerable words, I feel. :-) Franki

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Suzann said...

I am green with envy! WOW!!!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Tammy@InStitches said...

It is going to look so good !

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Heather Henderson said...

what a funny story - you show that carpenter who's boss! Please keep your arches arched, though - i don't like how they squared the molding above their cabinets.

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Suburban Stitcher said...

sometimes the "professionals" just need a little vision, don't they! I can't wait to hear what your contractor has to say now!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Sue said...

How lucky to find a picture that shows exactly what you want. It will look amazing. This brought back good memories for me. A couple of houses ago, we had our big historic home. Our formal dining room had arched shelving on each side of a window seat instead of a fireplace. I miss all those built-ins!

Sue

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Heidi said...

wow, how great that you found exactly what you needed to show your contractor!! Can't wait to see how yours turns out!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Becca Bertotti said...

Hi Susan, your living room is already beautiful, without doing one thing more; howEVER, the addition of the built-ins and "beefed" up mantle, will just be the icing on the cake !! I love your inspiration pics ... the wall color is gorgeous. I can't wait to see what you do. And, thanks again for hosting such a fun gathering. Take care, Becca

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger The Decorating Chica said...

Love your site.

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Scribbler said...

I am having red sofa envy! This room will look incredible I have no doubt when you get it done to your liking.

Scribbler

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Jennifer {Studio JRU} said...

OHH... can't wait to see how that turns out!!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Jaana said...

Love, love LOVE your blog. First time I came here and have to say love at first sight. Have to become a reader, so I can come visit more often!

Greetings from Finland!
- Jaana

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Jaana said...

Love, love LOVE your blog. First time I came here and have to say love at first sight. Have to become a reader, so I can come visit more often!

Greetings from Finland!
- Jaana

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Peg said...

Hi Susan,
I enjoyed reading about your library project. It is very similar to what we did in a bedroom years ago. I think I shared some photos with you. We were able to angle the wall on either side of the fireplace. I've never done a post with those pictures, mainly because I am not finished with the room's update. Maybe I will do a "so-far" post next Monday. Just thought it might be something to show to your carpenter. Can't wait to see your finished library!!!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Vickie H. said...

GREAT IDEAS!!! And if you decide to sell that mantle, I would love to buy it. I won't mind a "little" roadtrip your direction to collect it, either. I have looked for one like it for several years and have had no luck finding one. Can't wait to see your finished room one day. It will definitely be worth all your planning and dreaming.

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Karen said...

Love the display cases next to the fireplace. Love your blog & Met Monday's!!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Lady Katherine said...

Love it Susan, Now I wonder how you could have missed it. lol Will be perfect! I love the pieces you also having in your living room. I hope to show you my library soon in my parlor!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Richella Parham said...

Susan, I can't wait to know what your contractor says when you show him these photos. What a beautiful space you're going to have!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger 9405018--Pat said...

How beautiful Susan, can't wait...thanks for sharing...Pat H

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger black eyed susans kitchen said...

Susan, I do remember this and wondered if you ever had them recessed into the wall. Our living room have the same scenario...fireplace juts out abit and there are actually bookcases recessed on either side, but the previous owner had them walled over. Now I wonder what they really look like. Can't wait to see your room finished...I may use pictures of it for my inspiration.
♥, Susan

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Tidy Brown Wren said...

Looking at those pics makes my heart go pitter patter. Oh. . . the possibilities.

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger inadvertent farmer said...

I love places to display books...with a fireplace nearby to cuddle up next to make it just about perfect! Kim

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Cottage Rose said...

Hi Susan; Wow that is amazing how much that room looks like yours... and soon it will be so close to the inspiration room... What a beautiful library it will be,, can't wait to see it all done.....

Hugs;
Alaura

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Jess @ Frugal with a Flourish said...

That is going to look great! Thanks for hosting!

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Destination Seaborn said...

Oh those pictures are beautiful! I love that parlor and think it's a great inspiration for your space!
I love that fireplace. I've been working on our FP for awhile and love that surround. Do you know if that's slate, another stone or just painted?

I included a link to my blog {and fireplace dilemmma}. I'd love for you to stop by. Thank you!

Lisa

http://destinationseaborn.blogspot.com/2010/02/ever-changing-fireplace.html

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger molly susan strong said...

Gorgeous as always my dear. Love tese and can imagine the majic you will make.

 
At Monday, February 15, 2010 , Blogger Sarah said...

Susan, how perfect is this? You are always so patient, and it pays off. I'll be eager to see your new library.
Hope you had a terrific Valentine's Day. ~

 
At Tuesday, February 16, 2010 , Blogger 2sisters said...

It will be so perfect! Who's says it can't be done! Tell that contractor that we have faith that it can!

 
At Tuesday, February 16, 2010 , Blogger Rettabug said...

Susan, I bet your brain registered the total recessed shelving concept of this room in that GORGEOUS home a long time ago & you didn't even realize it! Somewhere in the back of your mind, its been simmering, just waiting for the right pieces.

Your version is going to look stunning & I can't wait to see it!

fondly,
Rett

 
At Tuesday, February 16, 2010 , Blogger Melanie said...

Isn't it wonderful that you found this house? I can't wait to see your finished product.

 
At Tuesday, February 16, 2010 , Blogger Unknown said...

So pretty! I love your creativity and vision!

 
At Tuesday, February 16, 2010 , Blogger *Chic Provence* said...

I love the updated classic look achieved in this room..the colors are uplifting!

 
At Tuesday, February 16, 2010 , Blogger Titti @ Shoestring Pavilion said...

Love the arches on those cabinets as well as that dramatic red couch! (And sorry for the link bombing, hope it's ok...)

 
At Wednesday, February 17, 2010 , Blogger Tardevil said...

And, I'd bet, if you're anything like me, you already have 'stuff' to fill up those little niches! Love the paint color on the wall. Don't know if I'd use it in my house, but it sure looks nice in that one. Still longing for a baby grand! Will be watching to see the 'library reveal'!

 
At Thursday, February 18, 2010 , Blogger Bargain Decorating with Laurie said...

Susan, I remember your post about finding the cabinets. That is going to look beautiful! I had a LOT of those same looks from my contrator when we remodeled. I'm so glad you were able to get a picture of what you wanted. Can't wait to see it when you get it finished. laurie

 
At Saturday, February 20, 2010 , Blogger a little bit of everything said...

Love the built in bookshelves!
I have become a follower and invite you to do the same. Just found your blog today and am enjoying the content!

 

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