Ina Garten's home library celebrates 'bookshelf wealth' – the eclectic trend defining our interiors this year

There's nothing like a reading nook. Ina Garten took to Instagram to share her home library, stunning interior designers and bookworms alike. 

The space is unbelievably cozy, featuring blue shelves, a comfy green armchair, velvet pillows in warm jewel tones, and an ambient floor lamp. Most impressively, the bookshelves are packed full to the edges, showcasing the Barefoot Contessa's lifelong love of reading for the world to see.

Interior experts say that the expertly stocked shelves tap into one of this year's biggest design trends: bookshelf wealth. Melissa Read, Interior Designer and Creative Director at Studio Burntwood, states, 'There seems to be a shift from the 'showroom' aesthetic, which can often lack soul and feel overly formal, to interiors that are full of charm and character.'

Melissa Read

Melissa Read attended the KLC School of Design in Chelsea before working at London's best-regarded interior design studios. Now Creative Director of Studio Burntwood, an interior design studio that specializes in luxury residential interior design for private clients and property developers.

She continues, 'The bookshelf wealth design trend celebrates homes that are 'lived-in' with an eclectic mix of accessories collected over time, creating a space that is a true reflection of the owner. This trend emphasizes that everyday objects such as books are beautiful and shelves do not need to be expertly styled to create an opulent interior.'

San-Francisco-based interior designer Soledad Alzaga adds, 'The bookshelf, with books that have been read and enjoyed over time, is the focal point, prioritizing substance over decorative items. This aligns with the "Bookshelf Wealth" trend, highlighting Ina's preference for a space that feels genuinely lived-in, showcasing the value of a well-curated book collection.'

Soledad Alzaga

San Francisco-based Interior designer Soledad Alzaga has worked on designs projects in San Francisco, Sonoma, Atherton, New York, Martha's Vineyard, Los Angeles, Mexico and Argentina.

Furthermore, the experts say that Ina's reading nook decor is perfectly chosen to create a warming space for curling up with a good book. Soledad says, 'In Ina's library, the warm and rich color palette, combined with inviting cushions on the sofa, create a cozy and welcoming space where you want to curl up with a hot cup of tea and a great book. The addition of a well-positioned floor lamp provides a soft and ambient glow, perfect for creating a comfortable reading nook.'

The look is further enhanced by the library design's color scheme. Melissa adds: 'Ina Garten has opted for a moody petrol blue color on the bookcase joinery - deep blue is an excellent choice of color in a study or any size as it instantly creates warmth and coziness while showcasing the unique designs of the books.'

Shop Ina Garten's Cozy Library Edit

Even if it's only a small home library, a dedicated space for reading can greatly enhance your experience of your home. Fill your shelves with bookshelf wealth like Ina, and you're on the way to creating a truly special space.