The deep shade of chocolate brown used for the walls provides a rich backdrop for this understated library. “Because it’s dark and dramatic, we decided to leave everything else in the room white,” says designer Brian Patrick Flynn.

Three wood bookcases with a white finish were pushed together to create user-friendly storage with a custom, built-in look. The bookcases are filled with two decorative navy book walls, vintage books, and other good reads that fit society right now. “Everything has been really thought out for accessories to be sensitive to things, and also be current,” says designer Brian Patrick Flynn.

Two cane armchairs provide an easy way for parents to help kids with homework at the desk, or for someone at home to quickly join a conference call. The commissioned abstract wall art above the armchairs reflects the home’s coastal location. “He used plaster and put together all these different triangles, and then connected them for an abstracted take on a sailboat silhouette,” says designer Brian Patrick Flynn.

A sturdy white ceramic garden stool with a classic imperial scroll pattern acts as a side table by one of the armchairs, to provide a spot to rest a cup of coffee or favorite book. The stylish stool can also be used for extra library seating when needed.