Reading for the Wise
I rarely take the time to sit down to read a book and yet, I’ve always had this romantic idea of the reading nook: a corner purely dedicated to reading and comfortable beyond belief.
There’s something comforting in knowing that when you get home after a long day, you have the perfect little spot to take your heels off and kick your feet up.
Reading nooks are also great for kids. Not only do they encourage reading, but they also provide a sense of security. I remember I could hide in mine for hours as a kid and make all the problems of the world disappear.
Whether it’s a space carved in a bay window or built into a wall, reading nooks need to convey the idea of ultimate comfort. And they need to be restraint in size. Were not talking about a grand library here, we’re talking small walk-in closet size.
Here are my top 5 essentials for the perfect reading nook:
1. First and foremost, you need a comfortable chair, daybed or sofa. A smaller sofa will give a sense of security so leave the 7-seater sectional for the home theatre. A chair with a higher back will keep your posture in check while still allowing you to rest your head. An ottoman is great with a chair to truly kick your feet up.
2. Plush cushions and throws are an essential to really feeling comfortable. A chair is never complete without pillows. A cute lumbar pillow is excellent for back support. A throw will finish off the soft furnishings and keep you warm in the winter months.
3. Here I’m going to sound sound like your mother, but good lighting is essential for reading to not strain the eye. For reading, the ideal is a task lamp that can be repositioned according to where you will sit. I prefer floor lamps that can easily be dragged around or swing arm wall sconces.
4. A reading nook isn’t complete without a bookcase. In order for the whole concept of the reading nook to work, a beautifully arranged bookcase is a must. Side note, bookcases always look their best with proper lighting and art.
5. Last but not least, think about where you’ll put your cup of tea or glass of water, your reading glasses and your bookmark? You need a small side table or stool large enough to host at least the essentials.
Do you have a reading nook in your house?
Gabrielle | Savvy Home
Sources: 1. Magdalena Aguilar’s Apartment via Nuevo Estilo 2. Angie Hranowsky via Lonny 3. Orrick & Company 4. Carrier & Company for Town & Country 5. Albert Hadley via Lonny 6. Alessandra Branca 7. Laurann Claridge via Lonny 8. Ruthie Sommers via Lonny 9. Hilary Swank’s Apartment via Elle Decor

















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April 19th, 2012 at 15:40
Pretty sure you just took all of the most amazing nooks from the interwebs and rolled them into one post. Amaze. And we’re planning on converting our now-formal dining room into a den, so these are all going straight into the inspiration files. THANKS, Gab! ox
April 19th, 2012 at 16:07
Thanks Tobe, that’s sweet! Oh and I can’t wait for more sneaky peeks at your new house – especially the den now that I know where the inspiration comes from! :)
April 19th, 2012 at 17:15
Great post Gab!
April 19th, 2012 at 17:32
Thanks Gab :)
April 20th, 2012 at 19:19
Quelle belle idée pour des maximiser un petit espace ou on doit mettre 2 lits! J’ajouterais peut-être une petite rambarde au 2e étage par contre!
April 22nd, 2012 at 11:03
I have always, always wanted a proper reading nook! Maybe I should put one in at the studio, because it’s just not feasible at home. Though, then I’ll be tempted to snuggle up & read all the time!