It may be February, but we're convinced we've already found 2024's most influential design movement. Named 'Bookshelf Wealth,' the trend invites us to curate shelves of books (naturally) and other personal items – whether that's antique heirlooms, souvenirs from trips, or sentimental photo frames. This trend is a pure celebration of our personalities, but Emma Roberts just took things to an even more intimate level.
The Madame Web actress worked with Jenna Hipp Spencer from The Last Bookstore (California's largest independent bookshop) to design her bedroom library, and it's one of the most striking examples of bookshelf wealth we've seen to date.
Jenna sourced books from Emma's favorite authors, focusing on 'some really cool covers and special editions all in a muted and creamy color pallet.' Belletrist (the online reading community) shared a glimpse of Emma's space, and it's just as chic as we could have hoped.
We've seen many examples of Bookshelf Wealth in the last few weeks, but there's something about Emma's seamless cream palette that sets her space apart. And, while we can't all have access to these resources, we can still take inspiration from her set-up.
It's hard to get bookshelf wealth wrong, but that doesn't mean we won't welcome tips from designer Alex Bass, who is an advocate of the ever-popular design trend.
'I love using a bookshelf to showcase your personal items. As an interior designer and art curator, I very much relate to the maximalist aesthetic of bookshelf wealth,' she comments. 'Beyond books, you can show off vases, candlesticks, and other amazing finds, especially one-of-a-kind vintage items. It is all about how you curate it.'
Alex Bass is an art curator and interior designer. She founded Salon 21 to fill a void in the social experiences available to her demographic interested in arts and culture and access to new talent.
As hinted, the movement offers room to exhibit any possession that means something to us (despite the book-centric name).
'My bookshelves have a combination of books mixed with antique marble bookends and picture frames that hang on the front of the shelf,' Alex explains. On the same bookshelf, I also have vases with dried flowers, ashtrays, and more. I also love hanging art above a bookshelf. A little bit of everything.'
Shop the Emma Roberts-inspired edit
This trend often involves using things that already have a place in our lives, but that won't stop us from investing in some Emma-inspired buys. Here are some of our favorites.
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