We were mistakenly forwarded these pictures via a friend's Facebook. It's a beautiful living room, yes, but what we were really excited about was up near the ceiling...

Similar to the high shelving in this post, what works in this more traditional room is that the shelves are created from ceiling molding that runs around the room. The molding gives the tall living room some balance and connects it with the other rooms. Deep enough to serve as shelves for seldom used books, and high enough to keep good books away from our friend's inquisitive toddler, it'd also be a prime spot for a collection of toys or pottery. If your ceiling's are high enough, consider adding a line of molding approximately one foot below them. The molding will also serve to draw the eye up, creating the illusion of height.

Similar Ideas

• Look! Store Your Books In The Rafters The same idea; lower ceiling.
  
• Look! A Shelf Over A Door A great way to find some extra room in a closet for hats or a bulky bag.
  
• Look! Picture Rail Shoe Organizer
Especially if you've got a bit of a shoe thing and not enough closet space.