The walnut paneled library at Filoli was the favorite of everyone on the tour, including our guide! The room is a copy of the library at Denham Place, England and was purchased before the house was even built by Mr Bourn. The intricate carvings depict roses, tulips, and daisies intertwined with leaves.
I think the reason it remains so popular is it feels the most like a home; it's personal. The room is littered with family portraits including this sketch by Sargent on the wall, above. Also, there is just something about a room filled with books, don't you think? I believe the saying "never trust anyone who doesn't have books in their house".
The Isfahan patterned carpet in the room has a vivid history. It formerly lived at Osborne House, on the Isle of Wight, after having been woven in Agra, India especially for Queen Victoria. It is one of the items original to the house, having been purchased by the Bourns.
I imagine many happy hours were spent on this sofa in front of the fireplace, curled up with a teatray and a stack of books. Thats where I'd be!
I imagine many happy hours were spent on this sofa in front of the fireplace, curled up with a teatray and a stack of books. Thats where I'd be!
This is my ideal library. So true about books. I always say take everything away from me, but leave my books!
ReplyDeleteThis room is my idea of heaven. Love it!
ReplyDeleteDaniel
and diane cannon has a great screaming fit on the couch in this room in "Heaven Can Wait"
ReplyDeleteThis room is calling to me...so cozy and so English! Love the tea tray & books thought...
ReplyDeleteAnon, I forgot that scene!
ReplyDelete24 - i'm thinking of those tea sandwiches now..yummy!
Birds of a feather....we're all bibliophiles!
WOW! Wish my library looked just a bit like that.
ReplyDeleteCicero said "If a man has a garden and a library, he has all he needs."
Clearly this property has it all!
Great photographs.
Absolutely gorgeous. Who needs a room with a flat screen television and home theatre system? Hands down, I'd choose this warm, inviting room filled with unlimited entertainment.
ReplyDeleteThe sofa with tea and books is where I'd be as well! I love libraries in homes -- they are the most cozy and comfortable rooms.
ReplyDeleteI first encountered Filoli as a child in a book about Great Houses of America, 40 some years ago. I practically wore those pages out. I'll have to see if it survives on my bookshelf.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous room, isn't it? Perfect proportions, beautiful details.
Oh to have a wood-paneled library... Fantastic tour Stefan!
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