Reading is a powerful pastime to nourish. It’s mindful, it’s restorative, it’s engaging, it’s informative, and it’s a welcome distraction from the horrendous noise that constitutes our new hybrid-online lives. It’s a habit worth cultivating, and a routine well worth investing in. This doesn’t necessarily mean buying more books, though – after all, that’s a given. Instead, it might mean investing in where you read.
It’s perfectly fine to read on your commute, on your sofa or in bed. But what if you had somewhere dedicated to reading? A comfortable, inviting reading space that gave you physical distance from the stressors and distracting factors of your at-home day-to-day? Somewhere you can really get stuck into a good book, and feel the warm encouraging hug of your home in the process? Here are some practical ideas for creating your own reading nook at home.
Choose a Space Separate from Everyday Distractions
First, let’s get something essential out of the way: I’m not asking you to turn your office or spare room into a full-blown library. You do not need to dedicate an outsized amount of space to this little project; in fact, all you need is a corner. This could be an unused part of your office, and awkward alcove you didn’t quite know how to dress, or even a part of your living room given more to storage than to hanging out.
Whatever spaces are most eligible, you’re looking to be able to house somewhere comfortable to sit, and a modicum of storage for the books you’ll inevitably stack up next to your seat. You don’t need much room for this, but the shape of the space you do have will inevitably influence how you proceed.
Prioritise Comfort
Style is always worth considering, particularly if you take pride in your home. However, here it should be comfort that takes centre stage. This is an environment for you to sink into, just as you sink your head into your next big read. Any soft furnishing could do extremely well here, from loose beanbags to more structured single-berth futon seats. Make sure to have plenty of cushions and throws to soften things even further.
Get the Lighting Right
There are practical considerations to your reading corner, though – chief amongst which is inarguably light. Not everyone reads on Kindles, and reading a good analogue book is nigh impossible without the right light to read it by. Being near a window isn’t enough, since you may well intend to read at night; the ideal solution would be a task light above your seating position, to illuminate your book without lighting everything up around it.
Creating a Reading Corner You’ll Actually Want to Spend Time In
A cozy reading corner can turn any small space into a relaxing place to enjoy your favorite books. You don’t need a large room or expensive furniture to create one. Start with a comfortable chair, soft cushions, and a warm blanket. Good lighting is also essential, so consider adding a floor lamp or reading light.
Choose a quiet corner with minimal distractions and add a small bookshelf or side table to keep your books nearby. Personal touches, such as plants, artwork, or scented candles, can make the space feel more inviting.
With a little creativity and thoughtful arrangement, you can create a reading corner that encourages relaxation, improves focus, and makes reading a daily pleasure.
