42 Years Later, Gianni Versace's '80s Home Library Is Still The Blueprint for Elevated Book Styling – His Simple Technique is Replicable in Any Room

Styling a home office is no easy feat. You need to carefully balance the often competing imperatives of design sensibility and functionality, while paying close attention to light and storage. For answers, we turn to the beautiful estates of the past, and more specifically, the home of Gianni Versace.

Slim Aarons photographed the fashion titan in his Lake Como palazzo in 1983, showcasing his office as a masterclass in home library ideas. 42 years later, it's still just as relevant. Versace's space features a stunning lacquer desk (this contemporary glass one from Wayfair is a great modern equivalent), a red velvet chair, and an elegant statue. Behind the desk, white built in shelves are home to a vast collection of books.

Interestingly, Versace has styled the books to feature an excess of empty space. Rather than colorful books as decor, which is typical in this kind of display, he has arranged them upright on either side of the shelves and flat in the center. These alternating directions create a window to the white shelves in the background.

Shop The Library Edit

As these shelves show, adding personality is a huge part of how to make organizing a home office timeless. Martin Waller, Founder of Global design house, Andrew Martin, tells Homes & Gardens: 'A home office must be designed as a space to induce thought. It wants to have crisp, clear lines, comfort and creative inspiration by way of artwork or patterned wallpaper. A desk light is a good way to add style and design-led angles to an office, as well as being imperative for spot lighting.'

Choosing the right furniture is also essential. 'A chair has to be comfortable, but it is important to get the level of comfort right,' Martin advises. 'A leather armchair for example would fit in a library feel, acting as a sanctuary to read and reflect, where an upright swivel chair suits written desk work. And do not be condemned to a black foam seat, go for a chair in mid-century velvet upholstery or a cantilever with interesting lines.'

Library styling and a beautiful home office upgrade more than just the design of your home, but can have a huge impact on work flow and mental health. No matter the year, these designs make a difference.