What Is A Reading Corner?

A reading nook is a small, quiet area within the home dedicated to reading or similarly relaxing solo activities (for example drawing, writing, or listening to music). A well-designed and attractive space will encourage you to find time for self-care amidst the stresses of day-to-day life.

Why Should You Create A Reading Corner?

In addition to providing a quiet place in which you can enjoy a good book and a hot cuppa, they can also double up as a space for other peaceful activities such as listening to music, making phone calls, or practising meditation. Book nooks also present an excellent opportunity to create an electronics free-zone within the home free of any digital distractions that seem to be a constant part of modern life.

Where Should You Locate Your Book Nook?

Reading nooks don’t require a lot of space so they are often are located in an unused corner of the living room, bedroom, or home office. Alternatively, you may find a good spot such as an alcove, a box or the area under the stairs. If space is limited, you may find that some creative Feng Shui is required. When scouting for a spot, you will need to check for the following criteria:

1. Make sure that the area receives good natural light during the day.
2. Ensure that it is free from electronic distractions such as the TV. 
3. Clear the space of any clutter.

Choosing A Colour Scheme

With reading nooks, you can use colour to establish an inviting atmosphere that soothes and relaxes. Colour is also an effective way to distinguish the area from the rest of the room in a strong yet subtle way. When choosing your colour scheme, we recommend applying some of the principles of colour psychology. Colour psychology studies how certain colours affect our thoughts, feelings and perceptions. This is a wonderful tool that can be used in design to evoke certain feelings in a space.

Blue: Soft and neutral shades of blue have been shown to help calm the mind, slow down your heart rate, lower your blood pressure and reduce anxiety.

Green: This colour’s associations with nature can help you feel calm and refreshed.

Lavender: Combining the coolness of blue with the warmth of red, this chalky shade exudes serenity, restfulness and warmth.

1. Bookcase

Keep all of your tomes within easy reach by placing a bookcase near your reading nook. When choosing a bookcase, consider how your collection will grow in the future and avoid styles with limited shelving. We advise avid readers to choose a piece with sturdier shelving that will be able to withstand the weight of your library.

2. Armchair

A cosy armchair that you can snuggle into is an absolute must-have for any reading nook. Because you may be sitting there for long periods, we recommend going for a firmer style that supports your back. We like wing-back styles (such as the Charlesville) in particular as you can lean your head into the wings. Snuggle chairs are an ideal option if you are looking for more spacious seating that allows you to comfortably curl up. For the ultimate comfort, a luxurious reclining chair is best, but these might not work in confined spaces. Before selecting your chair, test it out in-store (take dimension details too) so you can be confident in your choice.

3. Footrest

If you don’t have a recliner armchair, you might want to consider getting a footrest so you can rest your tired toes after a long day. To extra tidiness points, why not opt for a storage ottoman so you can neatly store away items? For optimum comfort, just be sure to check that the height of the footrest and the seat of your chair and is roughly the same.  

4. Throws & Pillows

When it comes to designing a reading corner, comfort is key, and nothing says comfort like cosy cushions and a plush throw. To tie the space together, select soft furnishings that feature your chosen accent colour. These small pieces also provide a chance to express your unique style personality so don’t be afraid to go for something a little kooky!

5. Lighting

Any good reading corner should receive plenty of light. If you can try to find a spot next to a window, alternatively fill the space with a range of artificial lighting options. For lamps, try to go for directional styles that allow you to point the light where you need it.

6. Side Table

A side table provides a handy spot where you can lay your book, light a candle and set your drink. For a reading nook, go for a lightweight style that doesn’t take up much visual space. Alternatively, if you need extra storage space you could use nesting tables instead. Before purchasing a table, be sure that it matches the height of the armchair seat for ease of access.

7. Rug

Rugs help to distinguish your reading corner as a separate area within a room. A rug will ground the area visually and stop it from looking like it’s floating in space. A soft rug will also add warmth and texture to the area. What’s more, it will feel much nicer on bare feet than a cold floor!

8. Candles

According to Meik Wiking, author of The Little Book of Hygge, scented candles are an “instant” way to transform any space into a little slice of hygge haven. Their gentle flickering glow and pleasing aromas will immediately put you into relaxation mode.

Interiors Inspiration: Our Favourite Books

1. The Creative Home: Inspiring Ideas for Beautiful Living – Geraldine James

2. The Little Book of Hygge - Meik Wiking

3. Hinch Yourself Happy: All the Best Cleaning Tips to Shine Your Sink and Soothe Your Soul – Mrs Hinch

4. Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave - Joanna Gaines

5. How to Make a Home – Edward Hollis

6. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up – Marie Kondo

7. The Minimalist Home: A Room-By-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life – Joshua Becker

8. The Scandinavian Home: Interiors Inspired by Light - Niki Brantmark

9. Love Your Home – Dermot Bannon

10. Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy – Frances Mayes