While much of the residence leans toward neutral and eclectic styles, the library is a deliberate departure. Deeply colored walls, a lilac ceiling, and carefully calibrated lighting give the room its own visual gravity, setting it apart from the home’s adjacent rooms. Existing millwork was refined and extended, honoring the home’s bones while lending the library a stronger architectural presence.

The room’s defining centerpiece is the custom bar alcove—a rounded, recessed form that replaces the former desk area. Achieving its concave shape required close collaboration with trades and meticulous plasterwork, resulting in a detail that feels sculptural and assured. Metallic plaster catches the light throughout the day, while Crema Marfil marble and concealed lighting give the bar a warm, golden glow.

Bringing the room to life required a tightly coordinated team of artisans and trades. Arbuckle Building Solutions served as the contractor, executing the intricate architectural work alongside custom cabinetry by Harris Cabinet Design. Stone selections—including the luxurious Calacatta Viola marble used at the fireplace—were fabricated by Triton Stone and Dimensional Stoneworks. A border with polished Breccia marble tile from Triton elevates the floor. The fireplace’s marble surround pairs with a Midwest Fireplace insert, with final styling by The Bold Americana.

Equally impactful are the custom stained-glass doors at the library’s entrance. Designed in collaboration with Wheat and Waves/Scout Metal, the doors act as both threshold and statement: By day, light filters through the glass in tonal shifts that visually cocoon the room; by night, the doors shimmer, marking a measured but unmistakable transition.

Furnishings reinforce a relaxed, collected sensibility. Nearly everything was sourced by Kelly secondhand—estate sales, vintage shops, and resale finds—and reimagined through thoughtful placement and upholstery. Books acquired over decades, including volumes inherited from Kelly’s mother-in-law, line the shelves, grounding the space in memory and meaning.

Today, the library is one of the most-used rooms in the Krehbiel house, hosting tranquil mornings, evening cocktails, and lively discussions that stretch well past their intended duration. It’s a reminder that the most successful rooms don’t announce themselves loudly—they invite you to stay.