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Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
Sophie Edwards

Olivia Munn's living room shelving adds a modern twist to the 'nostalgia-core' trend with a pop of blue – it's a masterclass in using accent colors

Olivia Munn.

Open-concept shelving can transform a space. The airy and expressive storage is the perfect platform to create a personal museum for beloved objects and artifacts. There is no better example than the shelving in Olivia Munn's living room.

We spotted the actress's living room shelving in an adorable Instagram video where she wraps her baby up like a sushi roll. The white built-ins are styled with blue vases and bookends against light-colored books. Small black statues create an intriguing contrast. However, what is most interesting is how this modern styling contrasts with the rest of the room, which has a much more traditional, and storied feel.

Together, this contemporary and historical design together creates a transitional room that modernizes the current nostalgia-core design trend. According to experts, this style will be everywhere in 2025. 'Championing cheerful colorways and playful patterns in all their glory, nostalgia-core captures the welcoming, lived-in aesthetic of a classic countryside retreat,' explains design expert Shelley Cochrane. 'This trend isn’t just restricted to those who are lucky enough to live in cottages, however. Whether you live in a rural dwelling or a city apartment, this joyful style will introduce an abundance of charm to your home.'

Shop the blue shelving edit

These eclectic interiors work well by embracing furnishings from different eras and in different styles. Shelley states: 'The spirit of this at-ease look lies in embracing a slower pace of life. Begin with cozy country-style furniture – think a plump sofa with scrolled arms or upholstered, button-back dining chairs which create the perfect cozy setting to host family and friends. Adorn surfaces with painted ceramics, patterned lamps, and decorative artwork to tell the story of your authentic style and personality.' Olivia Munn's living room shelving taps into this style with the sleek blue accents on the back shelves.

Furthermore, blue is a staple in this transitional design style. Shelley explains: 'Color-wise, combine blue, a hardy perennial, with an unexpected touch of red, used in moderation, to add a welcome dose of dopamine. For a final flourish, clash traditional patterns, from gingham and stripes to ditsy florals and polka dots for a whimsical look. What could be cozier?'


This space demonstrates that tapping into trends doesn't require adopting them wholesale. Instead, you can always decorate with your heart and combine elements of what you love with popular looks.


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