How to Create a Cozy Home: Reading Nooks
As Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous quote goes: “The love of learning, the sequestered nooks, and all the sweet serenity of books.” Reading nooks and good books simply go hand in hand.
International Literacy Day
With International Literacy Day upon us (September 8), it’s a great time to consider the impact of reading in your life. Since 1967, the annual celebrations of International Literacy Day (ILD) have taken place on September 8th around the world to remind policy-makers, practitioners, and the public of the critical importance of literacy for creating more literate, just, peaceful, and sustainable society.
What Is a Reading Nook?
Do you have a spot in your home that is the perfect reading nook? If not, have you ever dreamed of creating one? Then, read on because we’ve got the tips and design inspiration you’re looking for to create the ideal reading nook to promote reading in your home.
In the most basic form, a reading nook is a cozy place to sit down and enjoy a good book. It may be a designated space like a window seat, a home library/office, etc., or it may be a cozy, favorite spot, such as a porch or a comfortable chair.
Here Are Some Spots Around Your Home That Are Great for a Reading Nook:
- Cupboard under the stairs:
- Harry Potter was onto something! The area underneath the stairs is a cozy spot that naturally begs for a comfy bench or chair to curl up in and enjoy a book.
- Next to a window:
- No window seat? No problem! Create your own with an upholstered bench or add built-ins so you can gaze out the window in between reading your favorite novel and sipping some tea.
- An extra space in the owner suite:
- Owner suites are typically large with a bonus space that can be used for a reading or relaxing spot. All you need is a floor lamp, a comfy chair, your favorite blanket, a small table and a stack of books.
- The “awkward” space in your home:
- Everyone has that awkward spot in their home that can’t quite fit a couch but is begging for a little something more. This type of space is asking for you to create a vignette. Try a small, but comfy chair and a small table with a floor lamp staged behind.
- Repurpose a closet:
- Got a closet you don’t use? Take the doors off, put a bench in it, and some strategic lighting for a reading nook you will love.
- A covered porch:
- Fall is on the way and we can’t think of a better way to spend a crisp autumn afternoon than on a porch swing with a blanket and a book.
- Near the fireplace:
- If you haven’t already noticed, the trend here is cozy, and it doesn’t get much cozier than curling up by the fireplace. Whether that’s indoors or outdoors, be sure you have a good spot to sit, relax and read.
Once you have your reading nook sorted out, you need some good reading material. If you are already a member of a book club, you’re one step ahead of the game.
Check out These National Book Clubs:
As for Wayne Homes, our reading recommendation is “The House That She Built”, an inspiring story about women in construction. Mollie Elkman, the author of the book, says, “Books open worlds of possibility to explore. We want every child to be able to see themselves in building and construction when they read ‘The House That She Built’.”
Give yourself a great space to read, and help encourage others to do the same! Consider sharing the power of literacy by creating your own “Free Little Library” to share your love of reading with others!
Are you inspired to create a new home with your dream reading space? Contact us, and we can help you create your ideal home.
About Wayne Homes
Wayne Homes is a custom homebuilder in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and West Virginia (see all Model Home Centers). We offer more than 50 fully customizable floorplans and a team dedicated to providing the best experience in the home building industry. For more information, Ask Julie by Live Chat or call us at (866) 253-6807.
Disclaimer: The details of this blog are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change.
