FOR THE JOY OF READING

Creating a Home Reading Nook

When I was a Smith College undergraduate, I read novels and poetry for hours nestled in a comfortable wingtip chair, my legs flung over its side arms, in the elegant Neilson Library Reading Room. Built-in shelves with leather-bound books lined the walls, oriental rugs adorned the wood floor, and antique tables displayed collectibles amidst whatever flotsam of books might be on a student’s syllabus. With a stately fireplace at its center, the room was an English major’s paradise.

Photo: James River Media

While you may not have enough space for a dedicated library, you can create the perfect reading nook that fits your home’s dimensions and your budget. Its core elements mirror my college reading room: tranquil ambiance, comfortable furnishings, a rug and cozy accents, good lighting and shelving that showcases your book collection. 

Finding and furnishing your nook
The quest for a serene spot for a reading nook can take you into unlikely places. For children, try reinventing a bedroom closet as an enchanting story time getaway. After folding closet clothing into a chest of drawers, you can fashion a reading oasis with poufs, fluffy throw pillows and blankets and gentle lighting. Spark your child’s imagination by painting the walls in bright colors or wallpapering them with whimsical patterns evoking storybook themes. Shallow bookshelves that display book covers, like those you see in libraries and bookstores, will simplify the book choice for the day. 

When planning your reading nook, measure and make the most of your square footage. If you have extra space at the end of a built-in bunk bed, add a custom-made cushioned bench, storing book crates below and installing soft lighting above. Transform a window seat into a cozy reading nook ensconced within pretty curtains and illuminated by sunlight. In your playroom or den, pitch a canopy or tent for a magical hideaway decorated with bean bags, a string of twinkling lights and a small bookcase. Don’t forget a cushion for your family’s four-legged furry friend! 

For adults, you can integrate reading nooks into almost any room without dominating the space. Some rooms lend themselves to tranquil reading nooks better than others. Nestle a comfortable leather armchair on a cozy rug in a bedroom niche or by the bedroom fireplace, positioning a softly glowing floor lamp, side table and bookcase nearby. In a living room, study or sunroom, design a beautiful reading nook that embellishes your home’s décor. Your reading oasis might boast a plush sofa, a chaise lounge, twin club chairs or single armchairs, upholstered in patterns, textures and colors that enhance your home’s design. Anchor seating with side tables bearing handsome lamps and add an ottoman or coffee table for books and beverages. While it’s a busy hub and not exactly a relaxing oasis, a kitchen with shelving for cookbooks and a table to perch them upon for jotting recipes will inspire the cooks in your house over the holidays.

Shelving that showcases books
Whether DIY or tailor made, bookshelves marry function with style. A bookcase not only stores and spotlights your book collection, but it serves as a focal point in a room. Shop for beautiful shelves in a wide assortment of styles at local furniture stores. If you’re on a budget, Ikea Billy Bookcases are affordable DIY shelving options that come in a variety of sizes and prices beginning as low as $25. At a higher price point, the Ikea Hemnes collection features adjustable shelving, glass-door cabinets and storage drawers. If you’re on an even tighter budget, visit thrift shops or neatly stack well-made wicker crates for your books. You’ll create attractive yet affordable bookshelves that beg for a vase of flowers and a comfy reading chair. 

Organizing your collection
With thoughtful organization, your book collection can be both aesthetically pleasing and accessible. Begin by separating paperbacks from hard-cover books, which need more shelving support. Arrange your books alphabetically by author or genre. For aesthetic purposes, consider grouping them in rainbows of color and according to height, with the tallest bookending each shelf. Winnow your book collection so it consists of your most treasured books and donate used ones to your public library or other charitable organization. When you downsize your collection, you’ll have space on your shelving to display artwork, framed pictures and collectibles that add interest and warmth to your room. 

With the popularity of multiple-purpose flex spaces in interior design, home reading nooks are enjoying a renaissance. In these tranquil spaces, you don’t have to be an English major to experience the joy of reading. ✦