Waterloo Library Ladder

THE STORY

This bespoke ladder was specified by our client to match his magazine cover living room. He wanted his library ladder to be made of walnut to match his custom midcentury-style furniture. He also requested that we supply a matching solid walnut header that was used to mount his top rail on, finishing the look and tying the space together. The hardware has sliding hooks at the top, allowing the ladder to be stored vertically against the shelf to free up additional floor space. This hardware also allows our client to remove the ladder from the bookshelf and store it on a second rail installed on a nearby wall.

The key design element that our client challenged us with was to come up with a more contemporary looking ladder. This was a huge ask, up to this point we always put a rung at the top of our ladders, like all the ladder companies do. We experimented with a variety of ideas, and decided to build a unique, small bookshelf with clean lines and a very European feel to it. “Booky” sits in the position that the traditional top rung would be. In addition to being beautiful it allows you to set your book down and freeing your hands to climb your ladder safely.

This unique feature is requested by many of our clients, we love that! It has become a signature on many of our library ladders.

Inspired by this ladder?

Every ladder we create is the result of a collaborative process that starts with your vision. We can build ladders of all heights and slopes with different types of wood and a choice of finishes like stains or paint. Once we’re in touch, we can discuss materials—including your preferred wood and hardware style—and provide a quote for the price of the ladder plus shipping.