Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, to be able to come home to a cosy spot that feels like a warm hug can change how you end your day. Other times, on a random Sunday afternoon, sipping coffee while you read a book in your personal space can make your entire weekend.
But what makes a reading nook cosy and perfect? If you find yourself wondering the same, fret not, for we are here to help! It is easy, simple, and will fit whatever budget you have.
Table of Contents
Our 9-step guide to creating the perfect reading nook
1. Find the right space
First things first, you must figure out that one corner in your house that’s quiet, comfortable, and has natural light. It could be a corner by the window (because isn’t that the best?), available space under the stairs, or a favourite spot you have in your drawing room. While we don’t pay enough attention to this, it makes a whole lot of difference.
2. Add comfort to your seating
The idea is to give utmost importance to comfort, so you need a comfortable chair or cushioned seating. Of course, it needs to be something that’s inviting because you don’t want to be struggling in your chair to be able to relax and read a book or pen something in your diary, isn’t it?
In addition, you can also find a throw to complete the overall look, and feel and at the same time, make it pleasing to the eye. These are the exact kind of aesthetics that we find on Pinterest, and we’d love to have a similar spot for ourselves too, isn’t it?
Our recommendation: 50 X 60″ Throws 100% Recycled Cotton Double Cloth Stripe – Steel Gray, Rs 1,199 (On discount)
What makes your nook comfortable is how you adjust the seating and the extra elements you add to it. A cotton throw automatically makes the nook cosy while also adding aesthetics to it and this Folkulture throw is our pick. It’s welcoming, warm, and snuggly.
Buy here
3. Good lighting
Now that’s absolutely essential to any reading or writing space! In case natural light is not available, go for lamps that are adjustable and have a warm tone. Place them in a way that doesn’t shadow what you are reading while adding to the serene ambience. When your place is all set up, you will see how lights can make a lot of difference!
4. Personalise the area with pillows
Go all out with the comfort and the aesthetic appeal of your reading nook. Use decorative pillows that match the overall vibe you are looking to create while also bringing a touch of personality to the space.
You can take your pick but this pillow set with ‘Home’ and ‘This Is My Happy Place’ written on them is as cute as it gets! Of course, a lot also depends on the colour, texture, and your favourite books, because that’s the right way to personalise the space.
Buy here
5. Bookshelves and storage
A reading nook needs to have your favourite books within your arm’s reach, isn’t it? You can opt for fancy bookshelves or a small bookcase and arrange them the way you like them. Once again, focus on creating an inviting display that makes you want to spend more time in this nook. This pink ladder shelf serves most of those purposes, doesn’t it? As someone who loves all things pink, this is definitely something I’d love to add to my space.
Buy here
6. Warm colours and textures
Picking out warm and inviting colours for the walls and adding soft textures with rugs, covers, etc., help create a cosy vibe. You can pick pastels, natural materials or earthy tones to make your reading nook a mini-retreat.
A rug generally automatically adds to the overall vibe that the nook gives out, for it makes it look warm, welcoming, and cosy.
7. Aromatherapy
Reading becomes better when your sensory experiences are better, isn’t it? Use scented candles, essential oil diffusers or calming scents like lavender and vanilla to create a soothing ambience. The scents can be anything that you like.
MINISO has a bundle of picks to make, but their diffuser sticks are the best! Not only are they strong and long-lasting, but the lingering scent it leaves is something that you will love.
Buy here
8. Add a personal touch
It is your space and therefore, it should have some of your personalised items. It could range from photographs to artwork to anything that reminds you of the good old days. To make the nook cosier and warmer, you can add anything that is personal to you. It could be certain frames, something by the table, or anything that screams ‘you’.
9. Tech-free zone
Make that nook a tech-free zone. Disconnect from screens and any kind of device because it is going to help you build a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy the smell of pages and the sound of turning them because how else will you make it a completely immersive experience?
We are mostly on our screens for most of the day, so let this time be your way to disconnect from devices and everything else.
Come to think of it, it’s not a lot to ask, is it? Go work on that reading nook right away, and maybe, share photos with us in the comments section!
Social and lead image credits: Instagram/aliaabhatt
Read iDiva for the latest in Bollywood, fashion looks, beauty and lifestyle news.
Disclaimer: Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.in/Amazon.com sites, as applicable at the time of purchase, will apply to the purchase of this product.