How to Create a Reading Nook?
Reading Nook?
Whether you’re a bookworm with an exhaustive reading list or a daydreamer who squeaks in a page or two between Zoom calls, you deserve a cozy corner having Reading Nook that’s uniquely your own. This charming built-in bookcase offers storage and a spot to perch, topped with natural lighting for an afternoon of reading bliss.
Comfortable Seating
Whether you’re a Sunday afternoon reader or a serial bookworm who squeezes in a few pages between Zoom meetings, a cozy spot can make all the difference. Creating your own reading nook doesn’t have to be expensive. You can make a relaxing escape using items you have around the house or purchase at a thrift store. Plush textiles like throw pillows and blankets and mood lighting can also help create an inviting space to bury your head in a good book.
A bookshelf flanking your reading nook ensures that all of your favorite reads are within reach. It’s also a great place to display knick-knacks and other decor items.
Choose seating that’s comfortable and allows for proper lumbar support. You can find affordable armchairs, oversized chairs, and upholstered chaise lounges at thrift stores and used furniture outlets for an instant upgrade. If you have kids, a set of wiggle wobble chair feet is a cheap way to transform traditional classroom chairs into bouncy seats that allow them to hunker down and get lost in a good book. For adult reading nooks, consider a reclining chaise lounge, a lounge sofa, or a comfy armchair. Having a table nearby is essential for placing your book and a cup of coffee or tea. You can use a coffee table, end table, or a DIY crate to hold your reading materials.
Bookshelves
Whether you like to read alone on the sofa or snuggle up with your kids under a cozy blanket, having a spot dedicated solely to reading can make a world of difference. Create a book nook in a quiet corner of your home or use a room divider to create an alcove in a shared space, like a bedroom or living area. Adding a bookshelf for your favorite books and decorative accents is an easy way to transform any corner into a relaxing retreat.
Floating shelves are a great choice because they allow you to place the majority of your books in easy reach, while also letting you show off vases, picture frames, figurines, and other decor items that make your space feel more personalized. For a clean and modern look, try choosing white or cream-colored shelves. If you prefer a more rustic aesthetic, opt for reclaimed wood shelves or a ladder shelf.
Lighting is crucial when it comes to creating a cozy and comfortable reading nook, so be sure to place your nook near a window. Not only does natural light offer warm, cozy rays, but it also helps you focus on the words on the page. If possible, consider placing a wall sconce or floor lamp in your nook to provide additional illumination.
Hanging Chairs
Whether you’re an avid bookworm or just looking for a comfy spot to read before bed, create your very own cozy reading nook with a few easy home design tricks. A bare corner in your bedroom, living room, or even the space under a staircase can make for the perfect spot to hunker down and plow through your latest read.
To spruce up your reading spot, look for a padded chair that’s comfortable to sit in for an extended period of time, such as this blue tufted accent chair from neo-traditional home. A coordinating ottoman in front is ideal for resting your feet and kicking back. The tall bookshelves flanking the chair adds visual height and plenty of storage space for your favorite tomes.
No reading nook is complete without a surface for holding your books, drinks, and snacks. A coffee table, end table, or DIY crate will serve the purpose. If possible, place your nook near a window or door for natural light, which can be better for your eyes than harsh overhead lighting. If you can’t situate your nook by a window, consider installing a wall lamp or recessed fixture that’s adjustable to direct the light where you need it most for reading.
Crocheted Afghan Blankets
A cozy, comfy blanket is a must-have for any reading nook. Luckily, there are plenty of easy crochet patterns that even novices can master. Whether you prefer a textured solid or a colorful pattern, a crocheted blanket is the perfect way to personalize your space and express your creativity.
The best reading nooks are the ones that feel like they were created just for curling up and turning pages. If you can’t afford to rework your entire room, try fashioning a dedicated reading corner in an empty corner of a bedroom. Add a chair, side table and lamp to create a comfortable reading area that feels completely separate from the rest of the room.
Choose a location near a window to take advantage of natural light, which is less likely to irritate your eyes. Also, consider putting the nook next to a set of shelves so you can keep all your favorite books within reach. You can even create a fun theme for your nook with fun decorations, like framed book prints, “just one more chapter” posters and mugs that celebrate your love of literature.
Plants
If you want to create a reading nook with an extra special vibe, consider introducing plants to the space. These natural elements have a soothing effect on both the eyes and mood, plus they can help delineate the nook from the rest of the room. Whether flanking the seating area like this glorious diva of a fiddle leaf fig or growing up the walls, these greenery accents help turn the reading nook into a cozy escape from the everyday.
For a more serene reading nook, opt for furniture and decor in soothing pastel shades. Soft armchairs paired with footrests, plush floor pillows, and a cozy area rug set the tone for a tranquil retreat that’s perfect for getting lost in a good book. Display books in white or light-colored bookcases, and add a few coordinating vases with flowers or potted plants to further enhance the reading-friendly ambience.
If you have a sunny balcony or backyard patio, transform it into an outdoor reading nook with weather-resistant cushions, a coffee table, and a shade umbrella for those sweltering summer days. A few scented candles or a diffuser with your favorite essential oil can also stimulate the sense of smell while you read.
Lighting
A reading nook is the perfect place to unwind after a long day, curl up with a book, and take some time away from the stresses of daily life. This cozy, relaxing space can help you to clear your mind and dive into a world of imagination.
When creating your reading nook, remember that lighting is key. If the room is too dark, it will be difficult to read and can cause eye strain. Adding a lamp and/or recessed lighting is a great way to add light to your space without causing too much glare. You can also use a pendant light or sconces to create a more romantic ambiance.
To further define your reading nook and make it feel like your own, add in some decor pieces that are meaningful to you. This can include family photos, artwork, and knick-knacks. You can also theme your nook with books and other literary tchotchkes to really make it feel special.
Whether you have a bay window with a view, a corner in your bedroom, or that awkward space under the stairs, it’s easy to turn it into a cosy spot to relax and enjoy some good old-fashioned reading. Add in comfy seating, plush blankets, and a few decorative touches to transform your space into the perfect nook for escaping into a good book.
Curtains
Whether you’re a serial reader or just like to veg out with a book on the weekend, it’s worth having a cozy reading space in your home. Carving out a little corner in your bedroom, living room or even the area under your stairs will provide an intimate space for you to relax and dive into a good story.
Make sure the nook is well lit. Ideally, it should be near a window or other source of natural light. This will be better for your eyes and can help you concentrate. If you’re worried about the sun beaming through at night, consider hanging curtains that block out the light.
Once you have a comfortable seating option and adequate lighting, add extras to the nook to really make it feel your own. For instance, you can decorate with family photos and treasured knick-knacks to personalize the space. You can also theme your nook around literature with library-scented candles, a “just one more chapter” poster and a mug that celebrates your love of books.
To make a reading nook look even more inviting, add some colorful pillows to the space. They’re a fun way to introduce texture and color into the nook and can help your kids build their own pillow palaces or just get more comfortable.
