Creating a Reading Nook

Simple ideas to create a cozy reading space in a small space with a limited budget

It may not feel like it, but cooler weather is on the way. And there’s nothing I like more than curling up with a good book, a hot cup of coffee and a long, slow afternoon. 

One of the best things about reading is that you can do it anywhere, but sometimes it’s nice to have a reading nook or a special place you set aside for diving into a good book. While Pinterest and Instagram are full of beautiful, fancy reading nook ideas—from converting a closet to a reading nook to creating a built-in window seat—I live in a small house and don’t have a lot of extra money to spend on creating a fantastic reading nook with all-new furniture and I need the storage space too much to convert it. 

So, how do you create a cozy reading space without a complete overhaul? 

1. Pick a place in your house. If you want to make anything in your life a priority, it helps to have a space or place you can go to do it. Find a place in your house where you feel peaceful, comfortable and cozy. My favorite place to read is my armchair next to my bay window. The chair is big enough to tuck my feet up and if I’d rather use a footstool, I have one of those too.
   

2. Cultivate comfort. Add in a chunky, fuzzy throw for chilly evenings or a throw pillow or two. If your reading space is larger, you might want to add a rug or a side table, big enough to hold your favorite warm drink or a candle.
   

3. Add a lamp. Even if you’re reading on a Kindle or listening to an audio book, the soft glow of a reading lamp really amps up the cozy factor. You can move a lamp from another area of your house or thrift one—the main point being you don’t have to buy a new one if you don’t want to.
   

4. Create space for book storage. If you’re anything like me, you have a massive TBR pile. Rather than piling those to-be-read books up next to your chair, create a storage solution near your reading nook. Think shelves, baskets or bins, so you can switch out books after you’ve finished them.

What does your reading space look like? Share your ideas (and photos) in the comments!