An immediate signal that an interior designer has considered the occupant and their needs, I've always believed that a corner dedicated to reading is a sure sign of a sophisticated home.
A few things always suggest a home is well-designed, but nothing beats the welcoming embrace of a reading nook. While designing one depends on your footage and interior design style, Victoria Beckham's sophisticated book corner couldn't be a better source of inspiration to start with.
Featuring a bespoke built-in housing her many books (painted in a timelessly chic dark charcoal) and a velvet armchair in a warm brown, it's a simple but elegant setup that proves the power of investing in high-quality staples designed to soothe and uplift you for years to come.
Shop the Look
Victoria's home library is (unsurprisingly) effortlessly chic. Framed by bespoke cabinetry painted a deep, dark charcoal paired with thoughtful bookshelf details, it's a lesson in quiet luxury. While installing a built-in bookcase might not be on the cards, you'll be pleased to know you can recreate Victoria's stylish setup with these three key picks.
Made from a soft velvet, embracing the quiet luxury look has never been simpler with Quince's pillow cover. Subtle yet masterfully sophisticated, it'll give your space a high-end feel in seconds.
For a bookshelf that radiates luxury, consider the Eton picture frame designed by established makers Pigeon & Poodle. With a sturdy leather frame, it feels oh-so similar to Victoria's chic frame sitting on her shelf.
For a dose of luxury that lives beyond the present day, this pair of marble bookends is a no-brainer. Made from a richly textured marble, they'll make a simple stack of books feel effortlessly styled.
A timeless classic that will make an excellent choice for any bookshelf, Assouline's book on the Amalfi Coast is hard to resist. Place it at pride of place on your bookshelf to instantly elevate your collection.
Perfect for elevating a stack of books, this decorative bronze ribbon is small but mighty. Sculptural in shape, it'll catch your eye and instantly make a simple arrangement feel thoughtful.
Designed to illuminate your shelves with ease, this gold picture light is a timeless choice for a bookshelf. LED in design, it couldn't be easier to use from the comfort of your armchair or desk.
Victoria's reading corner is understated yet impactful. Featuring a timeless velvet armchair and bespoke bookcase, the simple arrangement comes to life through thoughtful styling and intentional choices.
The use of a black paint color is clever, instantly enriching the nook with a sense of moody luxury and comfort. Known to create a sense of drama and impact, black might be a statement, but in the case of Victoria's reading nook, it's a powerful hue that's necessary. I can't think of a more fitting shade to adorn the hero piece of furniture, providing tons of depth and richness.
Layering materials ensures the space feels warm and welcoming. The warm-toned armchair is a refreshingly soft addition that quietly contrasts against the dark background, acting as the backdrop for lighter hues. Comforting yet classic in shape, it's an elegant choice for an already component design.
Making the styling of a bookcase look effortless, Victoria's shelves are stacked with a collection of books, stacked both horizontally and vertically. A way to create interest and make a typically conventional piece of furniture feel fresher, this simple hack transforms the unit. A leather-bound frame sits beside a pile of books, providing some much-needed textural contrast and an added layer of timeless luxury.
Victoria's book nook is artfully balanced. Featuring a rich black bookcase and layers of luxurious materials and decor, it's a lesson in following classic design principles and investing in pieces that'll never date.
