Hiding away from the world and curling up with a great book is one of the most universal pleasures, so much so that many will strive to build and design their own reading nook at home. The aim of such a space is not only to be comfortable enough to read but to offer a respite that supports reading too. Many will know that it only takes a distraction or minor discomfort to prevent us from enjoying a narrative.
As such, there are a number of considerations to make when designing a reading nook at home. Aspects such as temperature and noise should be taken into account too, as well as seemingly obvious, but often forgotten, aspects such as lighting. So, if you consider yourself a bookworm and want to both enjoy and improve your reading experience, then here are the fundamentals of a great reading nook.
Illumination
Often it is the case that residents will rely on artificial light when reading and, while there are certain bulbs that can do well to imitate daylight, they have a tendency to strain our eyes when relied upon throughout the day. Other sources of light, such as digital dials and screens, will also cause distraction and should be removed or covered.
It is important to prioritise natural light, which is why many reading nook designs will see seats crafted in window spaces or nearby sources of natural light. Then, in the evening, soft, warm bulbs can be used instead, helping you to get through those final chapters.
Privacy
A key aspect of the reading nook is to eliminate potential interruptions. At home, this can be difficult, because our personal lives might invite the presence of others and our location can mean that neighbourhood noises are a nuisance.
This is what leads many to create an entirely new and private space. Some convert their attics while others buy log cabins, each seeking to install their own, insulated and, importantly, isolated realm dedicated to reading and removed from potential noise.
Storage
While one doesn’t necessarily need to store books in the same place one reads them, it is often preferred or recommended. Thankfully, shelving can be very versatile, enabling books to be stored beneath furniture, high upon vertical spaces, or nestled into dropped enclaves.
What is more important is that they are stored in such a way that celebrates their presence. If they are left to disarray or not made the focal point of a room, books have a tendency to feel cluttered, leading to unhappiness and, likely, frustration too, especially when looking to find a copy of a cherished read.
Comfort
Being able to be consumed by a narrative relies upon our ability to forget our physical bodies. To do that, we must be effortlessly comfortable. This means, a seat of softness, one that allows us to recline, taking all pressure from our body. Some feel able to curl up on a chair while others prefer to lay on a bench, and both have the potential to be comfortable.
