The Cottagecore Shade Style Domino Readers Are Snapping Up Left and Right

Domino's Head of Brand and Creative Studio, Megan West, shares her inspiration and picks for creating a serene and open-format living room, described as a "Zen Den." Driven by a desire for a living space that encourages relaxation, reading, and social connection, West looked to iconic architectural examples like the Eames Case Study House 8 and Ray Kappe’s residence in Los Angeles for guidance. Her vision is centered on an unencumbered environment where elements contribute to a calm and timeless aesthetic. West's curated selection for achieving this tranquil ambiance includes a record cabinet featuring scalloped pulls, envisioned to house her vinyl collection, blending functionality with a unique design detail. To introduce a natural touch and promote a sense of balance, she proposes blown-glass vessels for ikebana arrangements, emphasizing the beauty of simplicity and organic forms. Lighting plays a crucial role in the Zen Den's atmosphere, with a particular focus on a pendant light characterized by a woven bamboo shade and a single brass wire, forming an organic arch that embodies timelessness. Attention to detail extends to functional elements, with West suggesting unlacquered brass switches. These are chosen for their ability to mellow and develop a patina over time, contributing to a wabi-sabi aesthetic that celebrates imperfection and the natural aging process of materials. Seating options are both sculptural and comfortable; a French oak armchair serves as a versatile piece for showcasing patterned textiles, allowing for personalization and artistic expression. A customizable sectional in a lush moss green shade is also selected to provide a soft contrast to textured walls, creating an inviting and harmonious focal point. For ultimate comfort and a contemporary take on traditional relaxation, a hypoallergenic mattress is proposed, drawing inspiration from the floor pillows found in the Eames House. This element underscores the commitment to both modern functionality and historical influence within the design. The overall mood of the space is further enhanced by an appreciation for earthy palettes complemented by modern color pops, as exemplified by Colleen Herman’s artistic approach, ensuring a mood-boosting environment year-round. This collection of choices aims to create a living room that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also profoundly calming and conducive to a relaxed lifestyle. #livingRoomDesign #zenDen #interiorInspiration #homeDecor #minimalistDesign #calmingSpaces #editorPicks #designTips

Books hold a significant place in many lives, serving as sources of relaxation, learning, and expanded horizons. Beyond their individual utility, books also function as a reflection of personal identity and interests, especially when displayed in public areas of a home such as living rooms or dining rooms. Daniel Goldin, proprietor of Boswell Books, emphasizes that the selection of books on display reveals a homeowner's interests, thus personalizing the living space. Books contribute to a warm and comfortable atmosphere, making a house feel more like a home, whether neatly arranged on shelves, decoratively placed on stand-alone cabinets, or casually stacked on a coffee table. Goldin, who owns 16 bookcases in his Bay View home, organizes his extensive collection by subject and author. For instance, fiction is housed in the dining room, general books in the living room, nonfiction in the study, and food-related books in the kitchen, often intermingled with kitchenware. He also maintains separate sections for read books and those awaiting consumption. As a bookseller, Goldin faces the challenge of accommodating a constantly growing collection, adhering to a 'one book in, one book out' policy, except for beloved books deemed permanent keepers. Contrary to some modern interior design trends that advocate decluttering by discarding read books, Goldin argues that books read and cherished evoke memories and hold emotional value, akin to a record collection. He observes design trends such as arranging fewer books with accent pieces, stacking them spine-in, removing dust jackets, or organizing by color. Some individuals even dye books to match decor, indicating a desire for the aesthetic appeal of books in their homes, even if they aren't avid readers. Amy Carman, owner of Amy Carman Design, notes that these trends stem from a desire to create order and warmth, with some designers believing book covers or spines can be visually distracting. However, Carman asserts that bookcases remain a crucial element in home aesthetics, perhaps even more so now that much content is digital. She views bookcases as platforms for displaying meaningful items, including books, artwork, and family photos. For an updated look, Carman recommends creating pattern and repetition when filling large bookcases to prevent a cluttered appearance. A sense of order can be achieved by highlighting favorite books in the center, then filling the remaining space with other books and accent pieces. Bookcases can be integrated into almost any room, with style considerations tailored to the home's existing decor and the volume of items to be displayed. Examples include library walls in kitchens for cookbooks and glassware, or bookcases in dining rooms to add warmth and character. Stand-alone etagères with open fronts and sides are currently popular for their elegance, while built-in bookcases are favored for home offices and living rooms, especially around fireplaces or on large library walls, adding architectural interest to plain rooms. JoAnn Feldges, studio proprietor at Design Within Reach, identifies a trend towards built-ins, stand-alone units, and separate shelves. She suggests three styles: the compact "story bookcase" for book lovers and collectors, the elegant "folk ladder shelving" which leans against a wall with shelves widening towards the bottom, and versatile "string shelving" consisting of modular wall-mounted units suitable for various rooms like kitchens or libraries. Contemporary bookcase designs also incorporate lighting, often low-profile to illuminate contents or decorative sconces and picture lights as "jewelry." Rolling library ladders are increasingly popular, extending beyond traditional libraries to spaces like back bars, wine cellars, kitchens, and butler's pantries, offering both character and practicality for higher ceilings. While some homeowners prioritize updated aesthetics, others, like Goldin, opt for functional and relatively inexpensive bookcases, sometimes displaying books vertically, horizontally, or alphabetically by author, alongside random piles. He advises keeping books intended for immediate reading accessible rather than stored away, and recommends dedicating a comfortable spot, such as a chair with an ottoman and good lighting, for reading. #HomeDesign #BookStorage #InteriorDecor #Bookcases #HomePersonalization #ReadingNook #LibraryLadders #HomeStyling #DesignTrends

The article delves into the burgeoning industry of book styling, where professionals curate and arrange books for aesthetic purposes rather than solely for reading. This practice, initially gaining traction in independent bookstores in the 1980s by selling books "by the foot" for film and TV sets, retail decor, and hotels, has seen a significant surge in demand for personal libraries, particularly since the pandemic. The increasing popularity of this trend is highlighted by examples like a bank CEO's Upper West Side apartment, which features a two-story wood-paneled library stocked with 2,300 books, some with custom-printed jackets displaying chosen graphics or even anonymous nude paintings. The article notes the owner's admission that despite the impressive collection, she has not yet found time to read in her literary space, underscoring the decorative nature of the books. Social media's influence plays a crucial role in perpetuating this trend, with numerous images of bookshelves organized by color or with spines turned inward to maintain a specific aesthetic. These curated displays, often the work of professional designers or book stagers, serve as props, much like luxury fashion items, to convey status and wealth. The phenomenon extends to prominent figures like Gloria Steinem, whose bookcase was photographed for art, and Sarah Jessica Parker, who designed wallpaper featuring thousands of title-less book spines. The Twitter account @BookcaseCredibility further satirizes this trend by focusing on the bookcases behind public figures during televised appearances, implying that the visual background often overshadows the content of their discussions. Vendors like The Strand and Wonder Books offer books in bulk, allowing clients to specify color, size, and condition rather than content. Examples include requests for exclusively black or white hardbacks, nautical-themed blue books, or collections matched to specific Pantone colors. Juniper Books specializes in custom dust jackets that can create large-scale murals across hundreds of volumes, sometimes obscuring titles and authors. While this business model helps sustain independent bookstores by purchasing volumes that might otherwise be recycled, it raises questions for traditional bibliophiles who value the content over the physical appearance of books. The ethical implications of buying books solely for display are explored, acknowledging the tension between literary purism and the practical support this industry offers to booksellers and authors. The article recounts Ashley Tisdale's infamous admission of buying 400 books overnight for an Architectural Digest shoot, showcasing a shelf filled with self-help and business titles. While this might be an easy target for criticism, such purchases, even if purely for decor, contribute significantly to bookstores' revenue. The piece concludes by reflecting on the inherent human appreciation for aesthetics, even within the realm of literature, and questions whether a perfectly styled bookcase, devoid of personal reading history, risks losing its true identity and meaning. It ultimately highlights the paradox of beautiful books becoming mere facades, prioritizing external appearance over internal value, despite supporting the broader book industry. It acknowledges that covers can be beautiful and that there's nothing inherently wrong with appreciating the visual aspect of a book. The author, reflecting on her own desire for a custom-jacketed Harry Potter set, considers the commemorative aspect of owning beautiful editions of cherished works. However, the final thought challenges the notion that a styled bookcase, lacking the personal touch of a lived-in, read-through collection, truly reflects its owner's identity, suggesting it might instead convey an absence of genuine engagement with the books it displays. #BookStyling #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LiteraryCulture #SocialMediaInfluence #BookIndustry #CustomLibraries #AestheticBookshelves #BookAsDecor

The author expresses frustration over the increasing popularity of a home decoration trend where books are displayed backward on shelves, obscuring their titles. This practice is often adopted by individuals seeking a minimalist aesthetic, converting a collection of books into a neutral block of pages. The author critiques this trend by drawing a parallel to John Waters's sentiment about not pursuing romantic relationships with individuals who do not own books, suggesting that those who display books backward might be akin to sociopaths or individuals with something to hide. The article posits that flipping books backward negates their primary functions: re-reading, lending, and serving as conversation starters among guests. The aesthetic outcome of backward books is likened to sandpaper, suggesting a dull and uninviting appearance. The author notes that this trend has been circulating on platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and various lifestyle websites, despite growing opposition. The core argument against the trend is that a bookshelf's main purpose extends beyond mere storage; it serves as a reflection of one's personality and provides easy access to information or cherished passages. The historical context of organizing books with their spines facing outwards, a tradition dating back to 1535, is highlighted as a testament to its long-standing practicality and functionality. Personal anecdotes are used to illustrate the value of visible book titles as social catalysts. For instance, a past Tinder date whose only displayed book was a biography of Google's founder, alongside a roommate who also worked at Google, provided an early warning sign of a potentially uninteresting relationship. The author suggests that such a display reveals a lack of diverse interests or, perhaps, an unread collection. The piece concludes with a humorous, albeit dramatic, threat: if confronted with backward books in a home, the author vows to overturn the coffee table, asserting that an upside-down table makes as much sense as a book shelved spine-in. This emphasizes the absurdity and impracticality of the backward book trend from the author's perspective, advocating for a more functional and expressive approach to home decor. #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesignTrends #MinimalistStyle #BookshelfStyling #HomeDecorDebate #SocialMediaTrends #BookDisplay #PersonalExpression

This article offers practical advice from interior designers on creating a comfortable and functional reading nook within a home. It emphasizes that a dedicated reading space doesn't necessarily require a spare room; existing areas can be repurposed effectively. The article highlights that designers often integrate reading areas into living rooms, sunrooms, or master bedrooms, tailoring the location to individual preferences for privacy or openness. Key considerations for designing a reading nook include seating, lighting, storage, and personal touches. For seating, the consensus among designers is to prioritize comfort. A spacious chair that allows one to curl up is ideal, and pairing it with an ottoman or footstool for leg elevation is highly recommended for ultimate relaxation. Drink tables are also suggested to keep beverages within easy reach, alongside cozy throw blankets for added comfort. Lighting is another crucial element, and a layered approach is advised. This involves combining table lamps, floor lamps, and specialized reading lamps to provide flexible illumination. Sleek, minimal floor lamps that can be positioned close to the chair for direct light are favored, as are swing-arm wall sconces, which offer a space-saving and adjustable lighting solution. Adequate electrical outlets are also important, especially for those who read on digital devices that require charging. Regarding location, the article suggests creative solutions for homes without dedicated library spaces. Unused formal dining rooms can be transformed into multi-use areas that include comfortable reading chairs. Even spare closets can be ingeniously converted into charming reading nooks, particularly in children's bedrooms. This involves removing closet doors, installing a padded bench seat, adding wall-mounted light fixtures, and incorporating storage solutions like built-in drawers and shelves. Curtains can be added for privacy, creating an intimate space for children to read. For reading spaces located in common areas, decorative screens or strategically placed bookcases can serve as room dividers to create a sense of retreat and privacy. Storage for books and other reading materials is also essential. Wall-mounted shelving or utilitarian yet stylish vertical bookcases are recommended for homes with limited floor space, ensuring that reading materials are always accessible. Finally, the article touches on personalizing the reading nook with aesthetic choices. While functionality is primary, designers suggest incorporating soft or bold colors and cheerful prints to reflect personal taste and enhance the joyful aspect of the space. For those with a larger budget and space, adding a small rolling bar cart or even a wet bar can further elevate the reading experience. The overall message is to create a space that is not only functional for reading but also a source of enjoyment and relaxation. #ReadingNook #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CozySpaces #HomeDecor #FurnitureSelection #LightingDesign #SpacePlanning