11 Tips for Creating a Relaxing Reading Nook

The right spot can be an unused corner in your bedroom, living room or even extra space in a hallway. Before you pick a spot for your reading nook, consider how you feel in the space: Can you make it cozy and comfortable? Will it be quiet? And if you're cramped and in a space with a lot of interruptions, it will be difficult to get comfortable and focus.

The key word for your reading nook is comfort. Try to keep the style of the chair similar to the surrounding furnishings, but be open to shape and color and consider reupholstering a favorite chair. A chaise lounge will allow you to stretch out, while a cozy leather chair with ottoman may work with the room better. And a beanbag chair can work in a child's room.

If space allows for your reading nook, try a hammock with a matching pillow or two. Hammocks work well in open spaces such as finished attics and lofts.

While a reading nook with a lot of natural light works best, a good reading lamp or wall sconce can create the cozy feel your space needs. So try a light with a few settings so you can adjust the lighting depending on the time of day and your needs.

You'll need lots of storage for all those books in your reading nook. You can build a bookcase with inexpensive materials to suit your storage needs.

Make sure you create your reading nook away from electronics, such as the television and computer. Fewer distractions will allow you to focus more on reading.

A small refinished table will allow you to keep a cup of hot cocoa or tea nearby. You can also use the table for a small plant or a vase of flowers. And every object placed in your reading nook should create a relaxing environment.

You can use store-bought cabinets for this DIY project. The shelves can be built to suit your space and can include a built-in reading nook.

A reading nook covered with a sheer canopy is a great spot for reading goodnight stories to children. Drape a bed canopy or sheer white curtains from the ceiling. Then, grab a flashlight and add some pillows. And this spot will be a place kids surely look forward to curling up in. For safety, don't cover a pendant light or chandelier with a canopy.

When creating any space dedicated to relaxing, look for calming colors. Blue can help calm your mind and reduce stress. Because it symbolizes nature, green can help you feel calm and refreshed. Gray is also soothing and since it's a neutral color, it will work with most furnishings and artwork.

Don't forget a cozy blanket and a pillow or two in your reading nook. A magazine rack can help keep the space organized, and a no-hands-needed stand can be used to prop up your book or e-reader while you sip tea or enjoy a snack.