If you’re like a lot of people, there are few things more relaxing than the idea of curling up with a good book in your own personal home reading nook. Figuring out how to add a cozy reading spot to your Carolina home, though, can be easier said than done. Whether you’re overwhelmed by too many potential options in your house or you can’t even come up with one place to put a comfy space to read, this guide will help you!
As you read on, you’ll discover some helpful tips that are intended to help you craft the perfect reading nook for your lifestyle and decor. Whether you live in a downtown Charlotte, NC loft or a rural South Carolina farmhouse, something in this guide is sure to strike a chord with you.
Convert an attic dormer
If you have a finished attic space that is going mainly unused, converting a dormer into a reading nook is an awesome option. Not only do attics feature heavily in classic literature, but you won’t be taking up precious square footage in your main living area. This is often especially important to those who have smaller homes. If you go this route, add a plush bench with storage underneath and don’t shy away from bright accent pillows and paint. It’s important to lighten the dormer area so it doesn’t feel dark and gloomy.
Take it outside
If you have a small balcony on your house, it just might make the ideal reading nook, especially if it’s covered to prevent rain from soaking your furniture. There’s nothing quite like snuggling under a blanket with a great novel on an overcast Carolina autumn day. The best way to decorate a balcony reading space is to choose outdoor-friendly decor, like cushions designed for exterior use and vinyl shelving units that have doors to protect any books you decide to store in the space.
Under the stairs
The space underneath a staircase generally doesn’t get used, which is a shame because it has so much potential. Consider adding a bench and shelving to create a cozy reading area. If you want to make sure your space is completely private, add a door that matches the paneling or other material on your stairs. This is an especially great touch in a historic Carolina residence that could very well have hidden rooms!
Utilize your porch
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a Carolinian who doesn’t love a front porch. If you don’t have much extra space inside your home, you can easily create a breezy reading nook in a porch corner. Invest in a plush outdoor chair or sofa, a durable, yet stylish, side table, and you’ll be all set. Some homeowners also opt to install an overhead light fixture. If you go this route, make sure you have a professional electrician do any necessary wiring.
Hopefully, these ideas have gotten your creative juices flowing and you’re already thinking about the ideal place for a reading nook in your North Carolina or South Carolina home! If you’re struggling to figure out exactly how to make your new space perfect for you, look for decorating ideas online or hire a local designer who offers hourly services.