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Collection by Zach Edelson

Rolling Ladders in Modern Homes

The rolling (or sliding) ladder, set within the tall musty bookcases of a patrician library, is an old cliché. Extra-high bookcases can be a smart way to add storage to otherwise unused space. Check out these five contemporary designs that revisit and renew an old idea.

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Hughes’ collection of hundreds of books is stored on a vertiginous two story bookcase, which takes up the whole of the northern wall of the living room. It’s an ingenious solution to the small-space dwelling that draws the eye up, adding texture and interest to the room without taking up floor space.
Hughes’ collection of hundreds of books is stored on a vertiginous two story bookcase, which takes up the whole of the northern wall of the living room. It’s an ingenious solution to the small-space dwelling that draws the eye up, adding texture and interest to the room without taking up floor space.
Dan Garness used paint and well-placed windows to keep Duane’s office bright and airy.
Dan Garness used paint and well-placed windows to keep Duane’s office bright and airy.
A key request from the client was ample room for books. "Brian had us promise that we would give him room to grow his collection," the firm says. The solution was a large library with walnut shelves that was custom-built by woodworker Tom Clossey.
A key request from the client was ample room for books. "Brian had us promise that we would give him room to grow his collection," the firm says. The solution was a large library with walnut shelves that was custom-built by woodworker Tom Clossey.
The guest room cleverly shoehorns four bunks into a small footprint.
The guest room cleverly shoehorns four bunks into a small footprint.