If you're the kind of person who gets lost in a good book and doesn’t come up for air until chapter sixteen, then it might be time to carve out a little sanctuary just for reading. Recently, Paige revamped a cozy corner for a client, transforming it into the coziest mid-century-inspired nook. If you’re looking for specifics on how our client settled in, click here.
Whether you’re dreaming up a corner library, creating an intentional space next to your favorite window, or interested in a full-blown reading respite, we have some tips for what you need to fill your room—and your shelves.
Layer the Lighting
Good lighting makes or breaks a book nook. You want enough to read without squinting, but not so much it feels like a spotlight. Think small-scale table lamps, warm-toned bulbs, and layered sources instead of overhead lighting. Plus, play into windows and nautral lighting wherever you can, like we did by framing a large window in the room with closeable curtains for moody moments.
We’ve recently discovered the Visual Comfort LED rechargeable lamps that are portable enough to bring the adventure wherever you may be.
Bring in the Pillows
This is your excuse to go big. Oversized pillows are a must to prop behind your back, support your head, or just melt into on the sofa. The bigger, the better, and of course, make it pop.
We may be partial, but Paige’s Pillow Party would be the perfect addition measuring 24" x 24”. Each made from repurposed designer fabrics, they bring personality, comfort, and a little color to any reading corner.
Ground the Space with a Rug
A rug helps define your nook, especially if it’s in a larger room. It adds softness underfoot and creates a cozy boundary around your reading zone. Go for something that feels good barefoot and adds a bit of visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Style the Surface
A side table or decorative tray goes a long way (and it can pull double-duty holding your wine or tea while you turn pages). Anthropologie has a great candle selection if you’re looking to match your scent to your style. Want to shop local? Pare Candle Co. makes clean-burning, all-natural candles and has even made custom scents for our clients.
Make It a Sensory Experience
Reading is about escaping the real world, so make your nook feel like its own little universe. Layer in things that engage the senses—a soft blanket, a flickering candle, a subtle scent, a nearby bar.
One of Paige’s personal favorites? The Calm Roll-On from Thistle Farms. It’s soothing, grounding, and purposeful.
Pack Your Shelves (or your Kindle)
What’s the point of a book nook without the right book? From thrillers to Rom Coms, here are a few of our favorites:
Brittany | The House in the Pines (a Resse's Book Club pick!) by Ana Reyes
Paige | It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Mattie | Design Magazines, including Nashville Interiors & Luxe Southeast
Whether it’s just a corner chair or a full room transformation, the best spaces are ones you actually want to spend time in. If you need help making yours feel as cozy and layered as your favorite novel, let’s chat.