How to Create the Perfect Reading Nook

The only thing better than a good book is a cozy, comfortable place to read it. Reading nooks are easy and inexpensive havens to create for a little time to relax with your favorite authors. Here are some tips on building that reading retreat.

Find Your Space

With a little ingenuity, you’ll find even the smallest home has a sunny corner or unused landing in which to fit a chair and side table for some downtime.

• Consider a corner of your bedroom, office, or the area under your stairs.

• Twinkle lights, a floor cushion, and a sheer curtain can make an unused closet reading-ready.

• Decorate an unused fireplace with books, candles, and plants.

• Even basement and attic spaces can provide solace with a comfy chair and good light. Speaking of…

The Right Light

Natural sunlight and window access make for healthy daytime reading (paint the window frame a bright color for added cheer!). If you don’t have sunlit space or are reading at night…

• Find a fun floor or desk lamp that swivels. Position lights to the side of your nook instead of the center so the overhead lighting won’t cause a glare.

• Drape some string lights around the entry of your nook for utility and beauty.

• LED tape lights are flexible, easy to use, and come in a variety of colors.

• For some real wow factor, install a small chandelier.

Sitting Pretty

The right chair is key to the perfect reading nook, and they come in all shapes and sizes.

• Find a soft chair with room to relax for hours at a time—try your local thrift store.

• An ottoman or chaise “longue” (not “lounge”) gives you more room to stretch out.

• A love seat is perfect for reading (or napping!) and also lets your loved ones join your book bliss.

• Buy or build a bench seat with a cushion and storage shelves or bins underneath.

Color Me Calm

You want your reading nook to feel serene, so choose a color scheme that creates a calm feeling.

• Select neutrals like ivory or cream (not stark white); cool tones like aqua or mint green (vs. kelly or lime); or subdued warmer hues like pale yellow or peach.

• That said, you can add pops of color using bright pillows, throws, or a rug.

• Don’t be afraid to play with textures and patterns—stripes, velvet, satin, geometric, herringbone—to give your space more depth.

• Add your favorite photos, quotes, and knick-knacks to make your space truly feel yours.

Expert Tip

Paint the walls of your nook a different color than the rest of the room to make it feel like a unique space! Consider using bold colors on an accent wall like navy, olive, or orange—or if the rest of your room already has a bold color, go the opposite way by painting a neutral gray, beige, or white!

Sense and Sensibility

We’ve covered how your nook should look and feel to the touch, but don’t forget your other senses!

• Plants are literally a breath of fresh air, and there are many you can use that do well with low light and watering, like the philodendron, aglaonema, or succulents.

• Use your favorite scented candles or incense to instill peace into your downtime.

• A wireless speaker or turntable and some vinyl can provide the perfect reading soundtrack.

• Don’t forget to keep your favorite mug, coffee, or herbal teas on hand.

If this has inspired you to create a reading nook or an even bigger renovation, remember that refinancing while rates are low can free up funds for you to spend on home projects. Reach out to one of our Mortgage Bankers today with any homebuying or refinancing questions!