Reading remains one of the favorite pastimes for Americans despite the popularity of social media and video games. According to a recent survey, 82% of respondents considered it a useful way to learn and 76% found it relaxing. A whopping 98% said that they want their kids to cultivate a love for reading.
Not surprisingly, there are reading nooks in many US households, particularly in cultural states like Colorado. In Colorado, contemporary furniture crafted for reading is likely in high demand as residents invest in cozy corners for reading their favorites.
A cozy reading nook is a personal sanctuary to escape into your favorite stories, unwind, and recharge. Can you integrate a reading nook in your living space if you live in a cramped apartment?
Yes, you can carve out a special spot that invites you to curl up with a book. In this article, we will share a few tips to design your own cozy reading nook, even if space is tight.
Identify a Spare Corner
The first step is to scout your apartment for an underutilized space. The average apartment size in the US depends on the location. Statista names Henderson, Chesapeake, and Virginia as locations with the largest apartments as of 2024. Apartments in Henderson, NV averaged 984 square feet. On the other hand, Seattle, WA had much smaller ones averaging 689 square feet.
The space for your reading nook depends on what you have in terms of floor area. In a small apartment, you can opt for corners of your living room or bedroom. While identifying the spot, look for one by a window for natural light. You can get creative with spaces such as a small alcove, hallway end, or an area under the stairs.
A quiet area away from high-traffic zones is ideal as it helps minimize distractions. Additionally, it makes the nook feel like a retreat, no matter how small your home is.
Choose Furniture Pieces Wisely
Comfort is key in a reading nook as most people want to relax with their favorite book and a cup of coffee. Since space is limited, you need to select furniture that fits but still feels inviting. ELEMENT Home recommends contemporary pieces to add a touch of class and flair. It can enhance the overall look of your living room or bedroom where the nook is created.
An armchair is a must-have for your reading sprees. Look for one with a high back and plush cushions. If space is extremely tight, consider a cushioned bench, bean bag, or even floor cushions. You can also consider multi-functional pieces with built-in storage or ottomans that double as tables to maximize utility.
For your books, you can use a slim bookshelf or floating shelves. In studio apartments, a bookshelf can even act as a room divider. You can use it to subtly separate your nook from the rest of the space.
Ensure Good Lighting
Good lighting is something you cannot overlook when designing a reading nook in a small space. The Spruce notes that you must take stock of natural light in any room before you start lighting it. Also, consider the areas that require brightening with lighting installations. Opt for window treatments that filter rather than block natural light to maximize it.
Besides ensuring ample natural light in your reading nook, you must choose your fixtures wisely. A floor lamp, table lamp, or wall sconce makes a good addition. Choose an appliance that provides focused, adjustable light. Aim for at least 800 lumens for reading comfortably.
Ambient lighting elements such as string lights or LED strips can create a warm, inviting glow. You can even set up candles to enhance the atmosphere. Since the space is small, battery-operated candles are a safer bet.
Use Vertical Space
Small apartments demand smart use of every inch. According to DecorMatters, vertical spaces can be the best way to declutter, organize, and add innovative design elements. Unfortunately, we often leave them unused and squeeze our stuff horizontally. Consider maximizing the walls, corners, and the airspace below the ceiling for smart designing.
When designing a reading nook, a bookshelf is the primary requirement. Instead of cramming your apartment with a large bookshelf, set up wall-mounted shelves. They store books and display decor without taking up floor space.
Using hooks and pegs to hang blankets, headphones, or baskets for extra storage is a good idea. If you want to have a bookshelf, opt for tall and slim units to maximize storage while keeping the footprint small.
FAQs
What is needed in a reading nook?
A reading nook needs essentials such as comfortable seating and adequate lighting to begin with. It should also have storage for books in the form of shelves or baskets. Cozy textiles and comfy pillows and throws can make the space more relaxing. You can also add personal touches with small elements such as art, plants, and handcrafted decor.
What color to paint a reading nook?
Choose colors that create a calming, inviting atmosphere in your reading nook. For example, soft neutrals like beige, cream, or light gray are ideal for a serene vibe. To add subtle color, you can choose pastels like sage green, powder blue, and blush pink. You may also create an accent wall with rich, deep hues for a cocooning effect.
How to design a reading nook on a budget?
Start by creating a budget and determining the elements that can be fitted into it. If you have a dollar figure in mind, prioritize essential purchases like a chair, lighting fixture, and bookshelf. You can also save some money by repurposing old furniture or DIY-ing small jobs like painting.
With a bit of imagination and resourcefulness, even the smallest apartment can house a dreamy reading nook. All you have to do is choose the area wisely and decorate it mindfully. Try these simple tips to have a cozy corner that’s perfect for escaping into your next great read.