Getting through your ever-growing stack of ‘to-read’ books can be tough. It’s hard to find the time, or desire to prioritise it. Even setting reading goals doesn’t always give you that final push. So, what’s the answer? A cosy reading corner, of course. An intimate space to spend time with your favourite author. With that in mind, here’s our ultimate guide to teach you how to make a book nook that’s ripe for reading.
Finding the Perfect Spot
The first step of your reading corner design process is to find the perfect spot. Even the cosiest of soft furnishings won’t make up for a poorly placed reading nook. The main things to consider are lighting, noise and surroundings. You’re planning to read in this space, after all. Dark corners drowned in the grumble of an obnoxiously loud washing machine will not create the haven that you’re dreaming of.
To find quieter areas, it may be helpful to think about the ‘awkward’ or ‘wasted’ spaces in the house. These are quite often away from the busy spots in the house, so take advantage. We’ve already acknowledged that you want to stay away from uncomfortable noises, but what else do you want to avoid in your cosy reading nook? Busy areas in general should be avoided, such as living rooms, particularly if there’s technology around. A wandering eye might often drift over to the TV if it’s too close. That little awkward spot in the corner of your office that your WIFI doesn’t quite reach to, might just be the perfect place for your cosy corner.
When considering lighting, you might want to think about the ambiance you would like to create and the time of day you’ll get a chance to settle down into your cosy corner for reading. If you’re a daytime reader, dressing your window seat into a reading nook could be the ideal choice for you. Alternatively, evening readers may want to create a moody corner with a warm reading lamp. If this is the case, you of course need to find a corner with plug access nearby.
Choosing the Right Furniture for Your Book Nook
When selecting the perfect reading nook chair, first think about who will be using the space. Is it a safe haven for you alone? Is it a place you want to relax with your partner? Or is it somewhere your ‘mini-me’ might follow you too with a reading book of their own?
Decorating Your Reading Corner
Maggie Wooden Shelf With Hooks
For the serious book worms, your perfect cosy reading corner may in fact be a mini-library. And no library is complete without a bookshelf. You may have a built-in shelf that you can base your nook around. This is perfect if you have a plethora of books to pile up. If you’re working with a smaller space, small adaptable shelving can be the holder of your treasured books. The Maggie Wooden Shelf with Hooks is a unique option to do so, as well as offering a place to hang your throws.
No book nook reading session is complete without your favourite hot drink by your side. When I think about curling up with a book, I’m thinking about a hot, sweet tea to go with it in my favourite mug. So, of course you need somewhere to put it. In hopes of keeping your reading corner compact and cosy, you may not want to overwhelm the space with a large side table. A small understated stool is the perfect perch for your drink, such as the Cartmel Reclaimed Wood Stool. Alternatively, the Edward Wicker Basket End Table doubles as storage, making it great for keeping your books, bits and bobs.
The Cosy to Your Corner
Before you can melt into your corner and curl into your current read, the final touches are essential. Drape a dreamy knitted throw, and layer some reading corner cushions. The bigger the better, you want to sink into your spot.
Oatmeal Chunky Knitted Blanket, Linden Striped Cushion & Arlo Wooden Armchair
Finally, we at Silver Mushroom believe the last touch in any living space is a signature scent. Having a rich, familiar scent you associate with being relaxed in your nook will add to the ritual of reading. The Stress Relief Soy Candle will immediately begin the unwind with mood-boosting citrus and soothing lavender. The added warm glow also provides that extra layer of comfort.
