Carving Out a Cozy Oasis in Your Home
Do you have stacks of books dotting every corner of your home, waiting to be cracked open and devoured? I know the feeling all too well. As a longtime member of a monthly book club, I’ve amassed quite the collection over the years. But truth be told, I’ve been relying more on audiobooks these days, listening to them as I go about my daily tasks – walking to pick up my daughter from school, cleaning the house, or whipping up a meal in the kitchen.
However, with the recent “stay-at-home” orders, I’ve found myself eyeing that towering stack of unread books once again, and dreaming of the perfect reading nook where I can tune out the world and steal a few quiet moments for myself. Creating a cozy reading space in your home might just be the sanctuary you need to rejuvenate and recharge.
Defining the Space
The first step in crafting the perfect reading nook is to choose the right spot. This could be a quiet corner in your bedroom, a cozy alcove near the fireplace in your living room, or even a tucked-away space in your guest room. Wherever you decide to carve out your little oasis, it’s important that the area feels calming and free from distractions.
“A reading nook doesn’t need a lot of space in order to be special,” shares Courtney, the creative mind behind the French Country Cottage blog. “It just needs to be in a quiet and meaningful spot for you. Choose a quiet space that makes you feel calm.”
Once you’ve identified the perfect location, it’s time to start defining the space. Anchor the area with a plush area rug, like the soft blue patterned one from Caitlin Wilson. This subtle touch helps to delineate the reading nook without feeling too busy or overwhelming.
Creating Comfort and Coziness
Now that you’ve got the foundation laid, it’s time to focus on the most important element – comfort. After all, what’s the point of a reading nook if you can’t sink into it and get lost in the pages for hours on end?
“The most important thing about creating a reading nook is making sure it’s comfortable,” Courtney emphasizes. “Create an environment that not only looks comfortable but feels comfortable enough to sink into for hours at a time.”
When it comes to furnishings, opt for pieces that exude plushness and relaxation. An oversized, winged chair with a high back is an excellent choice, allowing you to curl up and get cozy. Or, consider a soft, cushioned settee that beckons you to nestle in. If you have the space, a plush window bench can also make for a delightful reading perch.
But the coziness doesn’t stop there. Layer in an abundance of soft, tactile fabrics to really set the mood. “Fabrics such as tumbled linen, velvet, or chunky knit fabric are a few of our favorites,” Courtney suggests. “They have a way of instantly cozying up a space to be more tranquil.”
Think throw pillows, plush blankets, and even a cozy area rug underfoot. The more lush textures you can incorporate, the more inviting and soothing your reading nook will feel.
Cultivating a Calming Ambiance
A cozy reading nook isn’t just about the physical comfort – it’s also about creating a tranquil, restorative atmosphere. And one of the best ways to do that is by bringing a touch of nature into the mix.
“A little bit of greenery can go a long way in calming your mind and inviting a more homey feeling into your space,” Courtney explains. Whether you opt for a potted plant, a vase of freshly cut flowers, or even a few sprigs of greenery, the natural elements will help to infuse your reading nook with a sense of peace and serenity.
But the ambiance-building doesn’t stop there. Consider adding subtle lighting, like a vintage brass lamp or a cluster of twinkling string lights, to set the mood. And don’t forget the little accents that make the space feel truly personalized, like a stack of your favorite books, a cozy mug for your beverage of choice, or a scented candle to enhance the relaxing vibes.
Carving Out a Distraction-Free Retreat
At the end of the day, your reading nook should be a sanctuary – a place where you can truly unwind and disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. So, it’s important to keep that space a distraction-free zone.
“Your nook is your dedicated place to go and find a few moments of peace and quiet,” Courtney advises. “So make sure it is focused on the purpose of relaxing, reading, and unwinding to maintain that zen feeling. Keep any stressful work-related activities or phone use away from it.”
Instead, fill the space with the things that bring you joy and nourishment – whether that’s a stack of beloved novels, a favorite throw blanket, or even a cozy pair of slippers to sink your feet into. By curating the space with intention, you’re creating a retreat that will draw you in time and time again.
Finding Your Perfect Perch
At the end of the day, the beauty of a reading nook is that it can be as unique as you are. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and the key is to tailor the space to your personal preferences and needs.
As Courtney so eloquently puts it, “More than anything, the right nook will inspire you to make time for it and YOU. So don’t be afraid to think about and take your time with putting it together. Creating a little spot that you will look forward to spending time in is key.”
So, whether you envision a cozy corner by the fireplace, a sun-dappled window seat, or a plush, secluded alcove, the perfect reading nook is waiting to be discovered. All it takes is a little creativity, a touch of comfort, and a whole lot of intention. Happy reading!
