tions. Although most pieces are grouped together by category, it is with a clean and
classic view in mind, so each stands out from its perch in entertainment centers, curio
cabinets and the like.
In the open and airy living room, a modern-style bar with glass-enclosed doors
houses an exquisite assortment of colorful glassware, including many pieces by
Baccarat and Orrefors that were received as wedding gifts. Inspired by these stun-
ning samples, Judy and Kent continued to amass the beautiful-and often functional
pieces.
Perhaps the most remarkable collection in the Siegel home is also the one that
gets the most use. Kent and Judy designed their own library, which contains more
than 1,000 titles — mostly hardcover — each of which contains a card so friends can
sign them out and the Siegels can keep track of their collection.
"I've always loved books," says Kent. "So I wanted them to be within reach instead
of packed away in boxes." While Judy prefers romance novels, Kent enjoys military
mysteries by the likes of Tom Clancy and W.E.B. Griffin. Putting a modern twist on
an old-fashioned idea, the Siegels' library is done completely in a light-hued maple,
from the custom-crafted cabinetry to the rolling ladder. The resulting serene space
has become the place Kent and Judy spend their quiet time together.
But even bibliophiles with a custom-made library need to lay a few ground rules:
"When a new book is added," explains Kent, "another must be taken away." But it
works out fine, adds Judy. "The ones that remain turn out to be our favorites."
Clockwise from top: Custom maple
cabinetry and a rolling ladder cre-
ate a clean, contemporary version
of the traditional library; a pair of
cozy leather chairs (not shown)
allows Judy and Kent Siegel to
enjoy quiet time together. Among
the couple's mezuzah collection
is an original numbered Chagall
(left), received as a wedding gift;
a handmade piece (center) picked
up in Jerusalem's Old City; and
a lawyer's scale of justice mezu-
zah (right), a gift from Judy to
Kent. The couple at home with
their Tonkinese cats. A collection
of dreidels includes this dazzling
Agam piece, purchased on a trip to
Israel more than a decade ago.