DESIGN HANDBOOK
This time of year there’s nothing more idyllic than sitting in a cozy corner of the house with a warm blanket, sipping on a cup of hot cocoa, and cracking the spine of that book you’ve been meaning to read for months.
With just a few pieces of furniture and some cozy accessories, you can transform that awkward or unused corner of your home into a sophisticated and welcoming reading nook. (And a distinguished reading nook is what every awkward little space yearns to become… so help it achieve its dreams!). Read on below for some exquisitely-designed examples along with our top tips on how to style a reading nook to perfection. Hope you enjoy!
Designer Furniture, Lighting & Decor From Kathy Kuo Home
Reading nooks take up very little foot space, so you can convert any unused corner in your bedroom, living room, or even hallway into a tranquil retreat. Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking a location: Make sure your reading nook furniture and decor will blend with the rest of the room. You want a nook to be a fun extension of a space rather than a distraction.
Also consider the amount of noise and privacy your space will provide. As much as you love them, you know you won’t get any reading done in an area with the kids running around!
Lighting is the priority when designing a reading nook (it’s arguably even more important than seating!). Whether you’re using a floor lamp that illuminates your over-shoulder or a small reading lamp on a shelf or side table, adequate task lighting is vital so that you won’t strain your eyes as you try to read. That said, ambient and task lighting needs to be combined to ensure a comfortable reading environment.
Having only a strong and bright task light with also hurt your eyes and give your nook very dramatic, almost creepy, lighting.
Your reading nook seating has to be comfortable. Honestly, it should be the most comfortable seat in the house (the one everyone fights over, but the one mom always gets!). An adorable armchair might work best for your space (this is probably what you’ll see most often), but also consider a window seat filled with fluffy throw pillows or even a daybed or chaise layered with warm blankets.
In the end, you want to keep your nook space simple. Our Kensington Chesterfield is a favorite for a more formal look, while a linen chair a gracious choice for a modern and simple nook. Add an ottoman to rest you tired feet and a small accent table for a cup of coffee, and you won’t be able to resist some downtime.
When displaying your books, you’ll have to make a decision about the purpose of your reading nook. This will often be defined by the extent of your book collection and the overall space available in your home. Do you have built-in bookcases? Will you need to shop for shelves? Do you have a home library where most of your books live and your nook is only for what you’re currently reading? Or is your entire collection displayed beside your nook?
Once you decide all of this, spread and organize your books and magazines in a way that makes sense. Stack your books both horizontally and vertically to create movement on your shelves. If you don’t have shelves, standalone units and floating wall shelves are also popular choices in modern reading corners.
Any blank spaces on your shelves or side table should be filled with sculptural objects. Vases, plants, decorative boxes, and accessories display perfectly on a reading nook shelf. And don’t forget to make your nook space cozy and full of personality. Imagine a leisurely Sunday morning.
The rain gently patters on the window while you’re curled up with your favorite novel. The mood just wouldn’t be complete without a sheepskin rug, tons of pillows, and a wool blanket! And we all know how stressful our days can get, so naps are highly encouraged.
Need design help? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you truly love where you live.
Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!
Need design help? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you truly love where you live.
Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!
