How to Create a Cozy Reading Nook in Your Home
No matter the occasion–from relaxing on Sunday afternoon to sneaking an extra page during Zoom meetings–a cozy reading nook can offer an oasis of quiet. Here are some tips for creating one in your home:
As your first step, installing either a freestanding or built-in bookshelf should be your top priority. This will keep your most frequently read tomes close at hand while eliminating clutter.
1. Add a Bookshelf
No reading nook is complete without somewhere to store your collection of books, so choose a book shelf that blends in seamlessly with the decor while offering enough storage space for books, drinks, snacks, and other necessities.
Even hallways can be transformed into cozy reading nooks with the addition of chairs and shelving, an area rug and soft floor cushions or ottomans for seating if that is your preferred seating style.
Your ideal reading nook should be away from distractions and foot traffic – choose somewhere in a spare bedroom, the master suite or sunroom to find an idyllic spot for reading!
2. Add Soft Materials
If you enjoy reading, a cozy reading nook can provide the ideal place for unwinding at the end of each day. Fill your reading nook with plush rugs, comfortable seating such as chairs or chaise lounges and plenty of pillows and blankets to make your personal oasis!
No reading nook is complete without a table for books, coffee, and snacks. A small side table makes the ideal companion to either a chaise lounge or chair and comes in different styles from modern sleek to rustic wood – layer a metallic-patterned pillow on top for additional comfort and style!
3. Add a Chair
An inviting reading nook can take many forms – from an empty corner in the bedroom or living area, to a quiet corner of the basement. To create the ideal reading experience, start with floor seating that makes this special spot easy to use – look for plush floor pillows or ottomans that can easily be moved out of the way when not required and add an area rug as an anchor point in order to define your reading nook space.
No reading nook would be complete without an area for books and refreshments to rest upon – bookshelves, coffee tables or stack of DIY crates may all work nicely depending on the aesthetic of your reading nook decor style.
4. Add Lighting
Reading nooks provide a tranquil environment in which to spend your leisure time. Simply adding an additional lighting source like a lamp is all it takes to add extra brightness, which will help prevent eye strain if you enjoy reading late into the night.
Lighting can help make your reading nook feel even more inviting, whether using lamps, string lights or wall sconces to set the atmosphere.
Choose a hue that complements both your decor and literary themes, adding an individual touch to your personal space and encouraging reading! Or go neutral or moody if neutral palette is more your cup of tea.
5. Add a Plant
Plants add color and texture to any space, helping create an inviting nook for reading or relaxing. Plus, you can place it on a pedestal to make it even more unique!
Lighting is another crucial aspect when creating your reading nook. Choose soft overhead lights so as to prevent eyestrain while reading without strain. Furthermore, consider lamps equipped with adjustable bulbs so you can decrease brightness for reading ebooks while increasing it when reading print books.
With some careful planning and budgeting, you can create the ideal reading nook in your home! Relax in this luxurious reading spot as you read your favourite novel or indulge in your next great read!
6. Add Decor
No matter if it’s framed art prints of figs, a “just one more chapter” poster or even just a coffee mug that proclaims your passion for books, decor can add a personal touch to your cozy reading nook. Simply pick an appealing theme that runs throughout your furniture, decor items and lighting to complete it!
Choose a rug that features both texture and color; patterns such as stripes or plaid will provide visual interest, while soft textures will bring warmth into any space.
For maximum relaxation and inspiration when creating your reading nook, opt for an area away from high traffic areas of the home where interruptions may arise – like closet, window seat or corner of bedroom.
