How to create a reading nook

A reading nook is a wonderful addition to your home – and you don’t need much space.

It can be anywhere in the home: a window seat, a landing, a corner of the living room. The key is to zone it slightly differently to everything around it, so that you can enjoy it properly without distractions. Here are some simple tips:

Location

Choose somewhere that is not a main thoroughfare: it’s harder to get lost in a good book if you have people walking past you all the time!

Comfort

You have to be comfortable – it needs to be mindful and relaxing. A soft welcoming chair is essential. Add cushions, pillows and a soft blanket.

Space

You don’t actually need much physical space for a reading nook, but you need to create a feeling of a space that is slightly detached from the rest of the room. A quick and very effective way to do this is to zone with paints. Darker colours will provide a cocoon-like feel while brighter tones will lift an area and work brilliantly if you are near a window.

Atmosphere

Choose paint colours that make you feel calm. Blues and greens are particularly calming colours as they give a nod to nature. Opt for darker, richer tones if you want to feel immersed, or lighter shades for a clean and fresh feeling. You can add to the relaxed feeling by adding plants. A candle will add to the cosy atmosphere and give a pleasant scent at all times.

Light

Good lighting is key. This is why window seats make great reading nooks, providing natural light throughout the day. Lamps as opposed to downlights will deliver a more relaxed, cosy ambience in your reading nook.

Shelving

Floating shelves are perfect as they can be small or large to fit the space available. Box shelves also provide the perfect spot for a couple of books and a small plant or ornament.

Choose the materials that work for you – wood is a natural choice as it complements the materials used in books, but something slim and contemporary will work just as well.

Above all, a reading nook should be cosy but uncluttered, welcoming but not messy. By keeping it simple, well-lit and decorated with the right colours, you can create a little library in your home that is tailored to you. The perfect spot to get lost in a good book!