Private Residence, Bath

This hook-on library ladder and rail system was created for a residential property in the stunning Royal Crescent in Bath. The whole sweeping row of 30 terraced houses was designed by architect John Wood the Younger and is among the greatest examples of Georgian architecture found in the UK. A few are still in their original townhouse format, while others have been split into apartments of varying dimensions, a museum, as well as The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa. The uniformity of this iconic style belies the very different sizes and styles that hide behind the façade.

But we digress … and so to the present. We were contacted by a modern-day architect to look at creating a custom-made library ladder and rails for her clients’ bookcase. We received a set of designs and dimensional details and undertook a site visit to ensure we dotted and crossed those all-important ‘Is’ and ‘Ts’. It was at this stage that we were able to gauge the scale of the project and assess the bookcase.

Made up of three component parts, the bookcase had a central ‘breakfront’ section (projecting outwards from the flanking sides of the furniture). Because the line of the bookcase was broken up by this breakfront, and because the space surrounding this front section was limited, the construction and installation of the rails and fittings would need careful consideration.

The Design Journey

After discussions, it was agreed that we would bespoke-engineer our usual ladder rail fittings to a smaller size so that each fitting would match across the length of the rail system. We would also need to fit one rail into the side of the middle section. The hook-on library ladder itself would be fitted with our braked rolling feet for ease of rolling it from one rail to another, whilst remaining safe and secure (when engaging the brakes) for climbing.

Site visits such as this are so worthwhile – where reasonably possible – and it was during this visit that we were able to take note of some of the finer details in the room. The lights that were attached to the bookcase had a striking circular backplate, which was such a feature that prompted us to suggest we make our fittings to match, with the same circular shape.

It had been the colour of these bookcase lights that had directed the desired finish for the ladder and rails. Our team hand-patinated the brass components to match the light fittings and it was with this finishing touch, that the whole scheme came harmoniously together.

The images speak for themselves … 

Brass Library Ladder

Our library ladders can be constructed from a range of materials including timber, brass, steel, and aluminium. As well as a range of materials, we can achieve a number of different finishes to match with your interior scheme. Get in touch with our team to discuss your ideas.

Hook-On Library Ladder

Where it is necessary to move the library ladder from one rail to another, it can be secured by a hook-system. This style of hook-on library ladder is very versatile and can be made to suit a variety of interior styles, from the contemporary through to the more traditional.

Traditional Library Ladders

We have incorporated library ladders into an array of beautiful spaces, including grand living rooms, narrow hallways, studies, libraries and increasingly in dressing rooms, as well as a range of retail environments.

Bookcase Library Ladder

Do you have a feature bookcase and struggle to reach those classic novels? Why not consider a hook-on or sliding library ladder? Work with our experienced design team to create your own bespoke library ladder.