Good Lifestyle

Whether you are a bibliophile in your own right or just fancy a place serene to relax after a long day at work, "a reading nook is the ideal relaxation area where you can forget the daily stress", says Kathy Kuo , founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home . Additionally, Kuo notes that a reading nook can be a convenient way to keep all of your books organized in one place, rather than scattered around your home.

But like anything in your home, designing one of these cozy spaces is an art. That's why we chatted with Kuo and other interior designers to find out how to create a reading nook you'll never want to leave. Read on for their tips.

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"Creating a reading nook can be a great way to use up whatever awkward or dead space you have in your home," says Laura Price , Owner of The original organization . "A bulky alcove too small to fit a closet or a sloping roof too low to be functional are two great examples. All you have to do is add some shelving and some seating, and you've created a whole new space in your home without taking up valuable floor space.

Isfira Jensen , CEO and Principal Interior Designer at Nufacet Interiors , note that you want to choose a space with little foot traffic and noise so that you won't be distracted or disturbed during your pleasant reading sessions.

"Creating zones is one of the most important ways to create structure in the home," says Kuo. "I find reading nooks work best in a bedroom or living room, but you can also decorate them in large hallways, a children's playroom, and in family rooms."

Another great option is under a staircase. "This often underused space can be put to good use by building a cozy hideaway," says Jensen.

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"One of our favorite ways to add a reading nook is to create a built-in banquette, ideally with a window," says Tama Bell , founder of Tama bell design . "We always specify a thick bench seat cushion - usually 4 inches thick - and often cover it in a textured fabric to add interest, then add a range of decorative pillows to really comfort it all."

If a window seat isn't practical in your home, Kuo says comfort is always key when it comes to sitting in your reading nook. "I would recommend using a small or medium sized chair or lounger that you know will be comfortable to snuggle up in for hours on end - and once you've chosen your seat you can really build the rest of it. the corner design around that. ," she explains.

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In addition to a comfortable seat, you will obviously also need a light source to read your books. Depending on the amount of natural light the space receives, Kuo suggests a wall lamp, pendant or floor lamp.

"Just make sure the lighting is positioned so that it's functional when you're actually sitting down and reading, and also, ideally, that you can reach to turn the light on or off without getting up," she says.

According to Jensen, the lighting in your reading nook also plays a crucial role in setting the mood. That's why she advises opting for a floor or table lamp with a warm and soft light.

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A cozy reading book wouldn't be complete without plenty of soft pillows. Add a soft blanket and you instantly transform your space into a potential nap spot, says Bell.

"I love the look of a chic, coastal floor basket in a reading nook that can easily hold stacks of cashmere throws," Kuo adds.

Bell also suggests adding a small end table to your nook, so you can keep your reading glasses, a hot cup of coffee or tea, or a glass of wine nearby.

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There's no doubt that having enough storage space is crucial to creating the perfect reading nook, says Price.

“It will be hard to relax when stacks of books clutter the room because they can't fit on the shelves,” she explains. "If you don't have a lot of storage space, it's also important to check in regularly and see which books you want to keep and which ones you can donate. This way you can keep your reading corner calm, spacious and under control."

Price advises organizing your books by color or size rather than title or author for a more visually appealing display.

"While it's nice to display sentimental items, be careful not to overload your reading nook with them," she adds. "Not only will this make it difficult to grab the books, but you run the risk of creating a cramped and cluttered space."