How to Create the Perfect Reading Nook

It’s always nice to have a little corner of the home that acts as your personal place to relax, indulge in some reading and enjoy a much-needed coffee break. It doesn’t take much time or effort to create that little reading nook and all that’s required is a few pieces of furniture and a little imagination.

How to Create the Perfect Reading Nook

Select your space

Perhaps you have a neglected little corner of the home that never gets used or you have an unused window area offering a great view. You won’t need a huge amount of space and a reading nook is, as the name implies, a little cosy area suitable for one person. Calm, quiet and relaxed should be the qualities that this area exudes and a space away from the busy traffic areas in your house will be ideal. A window spot will be perfect and you’ll benefit from natural light as well as a touch of fresh air when required.

Relaxing nook reading

Image via: Glenn Gissler Design

Keep furniture to a minimum

A comfortable arm chair is of course a prerequisite although a window seat or a small sofa with cushions will do just as well. You’ll also need someplace to rest your mug of coffee, books and magazines, so start looking at the wide range of coffee tables available. You can easily find a table to suit your space and decor but ensure that it doesn’t take up too much room – clutter-free is conducive towards relaxation. A shelving unit or bookcase is another good idea if you have the space but this isn’t essential if you already have a table in place.

Create a relaxing reading nook

Image via: Flickr – Islxndis

Light and airy decor

Your choice of wall colour will definitely make a difference to the atmosphere of your little oasis and neutral shades such as beige, ivory or khaki will create a relaxing atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more intimate ambience then darken the shade down a notch or two. Lighter colours will also help to make a small space appear slightly larger as well as giving off a welcoming atmosphere. If this is a space just for yourself then you might want to consider personalising the wall décor in order to separate it from the rest of the home.

Those little accessories

All you really need is a good book and a great cup of coffee but a few little touches won’t hurt. Consider scented candles or a small vase with flowers or even one of your favourite art prints hung on the wall. A reading lamp will be necessary and you can place a floor lamp behind your chair to give additional light when required. Keep it comfy with some additional cushions or a warm throw kept close at hand.

Everyone needs a little time to simply relax and escape from daily life and your little reading corner will provide just that. Individualise your space and make it a place you’ll look forward to spending some time in each day.

For more reading nook ideas on Stagetecture, click here.