The reason you aren’t reading enough isn’t because you can’t find a good book. It’s simply because you don’t have a space in your home that is enticing enough to sit down for a few hours and get lost in another world, time or place.
A designated cozy reading nook does wonders, and creating one in your home, no matter the size, is not only possible but simple too.
In this blog, I’ll give you tips on how to create a cozy reading nook that feels intentional.
How to Create a Cozy Reading Nook
Find a space
A cozy reading nook can be created in almost any space in your home albeit the toilet and the shower, though you could certainly still read there if you wanted to!
Start by assessing the free space you have. This could be:
- A blank wall
- A corner of your bedroom
- A section of your living room
- A small space in your office.
If you’re tight on space, think of the areas in your home that could be converted into your cozy designated reading area, such as your favorite spot on the lounge that with just a few tweaks could transform into a reading oasis.
Start with the essentials
Every reading nook starts with two essentials:
- Something comfortable to sit on
- Good lighting so you can actually read your book (Kindle users need not worry too much! but for the sake of aesthetics, lighting is still essential).
Simple enough and the options are endless.
Something comfortable to sit on
Your choice of seating should fit whatever space you’re working with and be comfortable. This could be:
- a comfy lounge chair (if you have the space)
- a plush armchair
- a beanbag, or
- your favorite spot on the lounge.
A light to see
The type of light you choose makes a huge difference in the ambience you create in your cozy reading nook. I prefer a warm light, not too bright, just enough to read without causing my eyes to squint, leading to a dreaded headache.
There are many light options you could choose but I’ve found that a floor standing overhead light works best. The halo glow from the overhead lamp grounds your reading nook and makes it look like it belongs within your home.
Other lighting options to consider:
Cozying your reading nook
Now that you have your reading nook set up with a comfy chair and good lighting, let’s add the cozy elements. The goal is to make your designated reading space feel intentional, practical, and you cannot forget to add a bit of whimsy too.
Here are a few ways to put the cozy into your reading nook:
Accent wall
Painting a section of the wall surrounding your reading nook can act as a visual anchor to your cozy space. A soft arch behind your chair in a shade that blends with the color scheme already in your home can really bring the space to life.
A side table for your essentials
A side table gives you a place to rest your steaming mug of tea while you read and allows you to store your reading essentials within reach such as your current TBR books, headphones, bookmarks and other small decor pieces.
Cozy nook decor
Decor brings personality to your reading nook, turning it into a space that feels uniquely yours and full of character. This could be:
- Wall art
- Framed photos
- Small decorative objects and trinkets
- Plants to add some greenery
- A scented candle
Add cushions
Cushions instantly make a space feel soft and more inviting. Mix different sizes and textures to create contrast against your cozy reading chair. Cushions also add extra comfort, allowing you so to read a little longer.
Cozy up with a blanket
A throw blanket literally adds warmth and is the ultimate comfort. Choose one in a texture that you like and ensure it is big enough to get lost in while reading!
Creating a reading nook does wonders for your ever-growing TBR pile. Just like your bed is for sleeping and your dining table is for eating (or a place for things you’ve not put away yet) your reading nook has a purpose like everything else in your house. It makes sense you would do more reading when you have a designated area for that activity in your home. It is the environment you are in that supports the hobbies and habits you pick up, plus, who doesn’t love the idea of a cozy oasis to relax in and get lost in words.
These tips will work in any space so long as you use your gift of creativity (that we all possess, yes even an accountant) to work with what you have. Don’t underestimate just how much you can achieve in the tiniest of spaces!