It’s a well-known fact that reading helps you relax and get rid of the stress you have accumulated. Lots of people like to read in bed before they go to sleep and this helps them fall asleep faster. Other people prefer to read somewhere in a quiet, cozy and tranquil space that was designed just for that. Most libraries have such spaces but it’s not exactly the cozy place you had in mind when we described it.
View in galleryHome library with a large bookcase and a comfortable reading space near the windowView in galleryReading corner for two with a bookcase room dividerView in galleryThe reading corner can be a small space in the bedroom with nothing but a chair and some booksView in galleryIt can also be part of the living room if you integrate it into the décorView in galleryThis reading corner seems very comfortable and it has sufficient natural lightView in galleryYou may also have a small sofa in this space, complemented by a footstool
Reading corners are very popular. Lots of people choose to have such a space because they enjoy having a comfortable and cozy space where they can sit, read a good book, maybe even listen to some soothing music and forget about all the problems and all the stress. When creating and designing a reading corner there are several aspects to take into consideration.The following examples should help you figure out which elements you like best and would want to incorporate into your own reading corner’s design.
View in galleryA very simple and stylish reading corner with a viewView in galleryLarge windows on two sides and a pair of cozy chairsView in galleryAnother great option is a reading nook with built-in storage for the booksView in galleryAn elegant reading corner with a bookcase on one side and a comfy chair on the other
One of the most important aspects you need to consider when designing a reading corner is the lighting. Preferably, there should be plenty of natural light so try to find a spot near a window. Perhaps you can even create a cozy window nook by adding a bench and some built-in shelves underneath. But you should incorporate a lamp or task lighting of any other sort.
View in galleryA small reading corner with an adjustable floor lamp that matches the armchairView in galleryRelaxing reading nook for two with wall-mounted lampsView in galleryA reading corner needs to be inviting and to have soothing lightView in galleryA vintage touch would make the reading corner look particularly attractive {image from flickr}.View in galleryIf possible, choose the space next to the windows for your reading areaView in galleryYou can also have an outdoor reading area, on the balcony or terrace
A reading corner needs to be comfortable. So figure out what’s best type of seating for this area. You can opt for a small sofa or couch, for a comfy lounge chair, a beanbag or even for a rocking chair. The whole point is for the space to be soothing, calming and relaxing.
View in galleryThe reading lamp needs to be flexible and adjustable so choose it carefullyView in galleryA simple reading nook with a large window and a clever storage space for booksView in galleryShelves are very practical for storing books so don’t hesitate to use themView in galleryYou can also use the window niche to store some of your favorite booksView in galleryDecorate your reading corner with artwork but try to keep it simple
To increase comfort, add cushions. They’re great if you want to adopt different positions or if you simply want to feel more comfy. You should add have a blanket there just in case. Maybe you’ll get sleepy and want to take a quick nap.
View in galleryIt’s easier to design the reading corner when you also have a bookcaseView in galleryA more casual reading corner where the books sit on the floorView in galleryBe creative and use old books or magazines to make a side tableView in galleryThe chair is very important to make sure it’s comfortableView in galleryAlways try to add cozy cushions or throw pillows to your reading cornerView in galleryYou can use a ladder-style storage unit for the books
It’s also important to have enough space for your books and magazines. Some chairs or benches allow you to add built-in storage in the form of shelves. But you can also opt for a vertical bookcase, wall-mounted shelves or some other type of storage.
View in galleryFind a space that you don’t use and turn it into a reading cornerView in galleryAn arched window would make a beautiful background for a reading nookView in galleryMake sure you have plenty of space for storing your booksView in galleryHere, the exposed brick wall looks wonderful and adds charm to the spaceView in galleryA beautiful painting or piece of artwork can make your reading corner look extra chicView in galleryYou can dedicate a part of your living room to readingView in galleryThe window niche makes a wonderful space for reading and relaxation
If you enjoy your privacy then you can add drapes or a space divider that separates the reading corner from the rest of the space. You can take advantage of this and get a room divider that doubles as a bookcase.
View in galleryAn oversized floor lamp looks beautiful in a contemporary homeView in galleryIf possible, try to also incorporate the fireplace into your reading area’s designView in galleryYou can either opt for a floor lamp or a table lamp, depending on the décorView in galleryThe light has to be subtle but strong enough to allow comfortable readingView in galleryUse the window and the views in your favor and highlight them
Make sure the reading corner is away from all the noise and distraction. So don’t put it in front of the TV or in the living room where there’s always someone talking or simply distracting you.
View in galleryIn an open plan you can have a room divider or a wall that offers privacy while you’re readingView in galleryDon’t complicate the décor and include only the thing you really needView in galleryThe attic or a hidden space on a higher level is a perfect place for readingView in galleryYou can create a niche above the door or in a cornerView in galleryUse shelves or storage boxes to keep the area organizedView in galleryDecorate the walls to make the space look less cold
Of course, don’t forget to personalize the nook. You can hang pictures, artwork, decorate the walls with decals or murals and find simple ways to make this area feel comfortable, welcoming and relaxing.
View in galleryA cabinet or desk can also be a helpful addition to the reading cornerView in galleryTo save space, create a built-in bookcase near your reading cornerView in galleryAdd a touch of color to this space to make it more dynamicView in galleryYou can also use the balcony and enjoy the view while readingView in galleryBe clever and improvise: a cozy pillow and a blanket is all you need
For example, light is very important. Natural light is the best to if you can place this space near a window it would be perfect. The light needs to be strong so that you don’t have to put too much effort into reading and so that your eyes can rest but it also has to be delicate and pleasant. As for the furniture involved and the style or the décor, it all depends on each person’s preferences and needs.