Since the pandemic, we've seen a rise in the aestheticization of reading, and as a lifelong book lover, I'm here for it. This glamorization has extended to the interior space, with the rise of looks like the dark academia trend. However, I had never seen anything quite like the uniquely bohemian luxury of Nicole Richie's reading room.
The fashion designer took to Instagram to share a few bookish snaps of her home library and, though I'm impressed by the sheer volume of novels she gets through, I was even more impressed by the background. Nicole's reading room features a delicate balance of opulent antiques and stylish modern pieces. From a gold side table covered in marble coasters and a marble bowl, to a hand-carved and upholstered chair, it feels rich yet approachable. She stores her books on mahogany shelves built into the walls of her home.
Here's a look into her reading nook (the second picture features my favorite corner of the room!), my edit of products for recreating her luxurious book room, and my thoughts on why the design works.
Recreate The Look at Home
Show attention to detail by carrying your stone finish into your smaller decor pieces for a cohesive look.
Crafted with a sturdy metal frame with a lacquered finish, this round decorative tray is the perfect backdrop to display tiny memorabilia, art books, or candles. It would be a beautiful feature on a side table, for adding just the right amount of shine.
If I hadn't been the one to find them there, I wouldn't believe these chic coasters were from Amazon. I love the subtle veining and pretty scallop.
Imagine sitting in this gorgeously crafted chair while reading. I love the rich fabric its been upholstered with and the beautiful hand carved base.
This sleek, polished pair of zebra marble bookends will bring an exotic yet refined feel to our shelves.
The Roma Eterna book is not only beautiful externally; its many pages will transport and inspire you as soon as you pick it up. Assouline is the top pick for celebrity coffee table books, and this one is especially striking.
For me, it's the transitional nature of Nicole's reading room that makes it so chic. Though the marble pieces are clearly new, the chair has a storied, Victorian feel. This combination brings new life to each piece, creating the feeling of slow decorating and style.
I also think that the lived-in quality of the room goes a long way in making it feel cozy. Though there is a version of this space that might be stuffy, relaxed textiles and casually styled books grounds it and makes it feel more modern. For designing your own home library, I recommend incorporating lots of personal affects. Whether its souvenirs sourced from your travels, or just a brightly colored chair that you love, these deeply human touches make a library feel like a home.
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