The owners first contacted Ailes Millwork after the construction of their new home began. They thought it would be ingenious to have access to the master suite from an elegant cherry library, via a secret passageway, adopted from classic mansion designs of the past. In addition, they wished to conceal an entertainment center behind pocket doors, appearing to be a library bookcase.
This was a design and engineering accomplishment. Because the doors on the entertainment center and hidden passageway could only be 1 ¾" thick, it was necessary to use false books. Extensive research was required locating hardware and high quality false books, as well as careful planning and coordination for the audio and video equipment. There were numerous details to work out, including making the breakpoints less obvious by using fluted mullions.
Wood items in the library included bookcases, fireplace surround & mantle, wall panels and mouldings. In the master suite, a full-length framed mirror was used to conceal the back of the secret passageway.
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