5 Simple Tips for Creating a Cozy Reading Space at Home
Love curling up with a good mystery? Here are five simple and affordable tips for creating a cozy reading nook that’s perfect for your next great read.
1. Find a Quiet, Comfy Spot
Tip: Choose a quiet corner in your home where you can get away from distractions.
Finding the perfect spot for your reading "nook" may be the hardest part. You may need someplace quiet or you may just need someplace away from the other inhabitants of your home. Those aren't always the same thing.
Besides finding a spot that allows you to read without distractions, consider the temperature. A cozy spot in a corner may look great, but be right under a vent. The same can be true of windows, they can be too hot or too cold. Before committing to anything, try out a few spots and be open to needing to move when the weather changes if needed.
2. Add Soft Lighting
Tip: Use warm, adjustable lighting to create a relaxing atmosphere.
A small table lamp or floor lamp with a soft glow is perfect for reading. But you may not be able to add a lamp (or afford one). There are other options.
If you're using an e-reader, external lighting might not be necessary. Mysteries are enjoyed equally well (if not better) when read in the dark. But if you need a light, consider dimmable fixtures or areas where you can turn on a selection of the lights for a cozier feel.
3. Incorporate Cozy Textures
Tip: Add plush blankets and pillows to make the space inviting.
Who doesn't love cozying up with a soft blanket to read? People that are too hot, that's who. You can still incorporate the idea of a blanket with some other options. Perhaps you just want to see a space that looks cozy, such as tossing a blanket artfully on an adjacent chair. Consider a shawl or wrap if you want to wrap up without a full blanket. And then there's always slipper socks. Knee-high knit socks are great for a really cozy feel. But more decorative, lace-type, knit slipper socks can work for those who run hotter but still want a cozy vibe.
4. Keep Books Close
Tip: Have a small shelf or table nearby to set your book and drink on.
When it comes to whether you want to store your reading material near your reading area, there are some options. Personally, I do most of my reading in bed before I go to sleep. I don't want to store any reading material near my cozy reading spaces (and yes, I have multiple ones, meaning storage near one of them isn't ideal). I always have to set my Kindle down, though, no matter how much I want to just sit and keep reading. A small table is a must for me.
If you want to store your reading material near your nook, a bookshelf is made for the job (obviously). But you may need to utilize a basket, instead. If you can't claim your spot for your own, there are storage "tables" you can move around. These are often like a large basket with a lid, some even rise up to be table-height.
5. Personalize the Space
Tip: Add personal touches like framed book quotes, favorite mugs, or scented candles.
Creating a personalized space is great. It lets you unwind so much better. But if you're using a shared space, you can still bring your space with you.
Instead of decor, consider having a basket or tote you love to store your favorite items as well as your book. This can be a blanket, shawl, pillow, and mug. Make sure it's easy to unpack and put-away your portable ambiance.
If you enjoy a scented candle but its not an option with roommates or kids, consider one essential oil (or one blend) and a diffuser stone. These are small and portable and the scent isn't very strong, essentially only reaching the person sitting next to it. However, if you'll have kids around you, be careful. They might pick up the stone and get oils on their hands which could cause a reaction. This is an option for when you aren't around kids while using it and are good at packing it up when you're done.
Creating a cozy reading space doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Make your own inviting nook to relax and enjoy your favorite whodunit.
