There is no doubt that curling up with a good book at home is a great way to spend some free time.
As well as offering a powerful escape from day-to-day life, it can calm the mind, reduce stress and provide much-needed stimulation and exercise for the brain.
One barrier to enjoying some quality reading time, however, is finding that perfect spot in the house to relax and unwind – with poor lighting, a noisy environment and uncomfortable seating all likely to ruin your experience.
This is why a conservatory makes the perfect reading nook at home – providing the ideal retreat with natural light, a tranquil atmosphere and its connection to nature.
So, if you are looking to design your own reading room or space in your house, here are seven top tips to help you get started.
1) Find the right spot for your reading nook
It is not enough to just choose a spot in your house to put a chair and a book – you need to think about what will make that area distinctive and feel like it is your own private reading space. Some places in your home to consider are:
Unused corners and alcoves: These are great places to transform into something cosy – using them not only helps you maximise the space around your home but also provides that safe and enclosed feeling.
Spare rooms or loft conversions: Avoiding distractions from around the rest of the house is crucial when trying to get stuck into your book, so think about choosing an underused or secluded part of the property to turn into a quiet and dedicated reading spot.
Conservatories and extensions: Turning these spaces into reading nooks is a popular home improvement trend because they naturally lend themselves to becoming specialised hideaways or sanctuaries within the house. Conservatories, in particular, work well as reading rooms because of their year-round versatility – acting as the perfect retreat in summer and the ideal snug in winter.
2): Choose the right seating to do your reading
This requires careful thought because you are not just considering what will provide maximum comfort and support for hours of solid reading. You will also need to decide what seating will fit best in the space you are using.
Thankfully, if creating your reading nook in a conservatory, lots of different seating options can work well. Here are possible options to explore:
Armchairs, recliners, and chaise lounges: While the armchair is a classic choice, particularly if opting for a high back for support and deep cushioning for comfort, recliners and chaise longues are ideal if you prefer a more luxurious lounging experience while reading.
Built-in window seats: These are not only stylish but will again help you maximise the space. Their obvious positioning also provides potential for optimal, natural lighting while reading -together with a pleasant view out of the chosen window.
Loveseats and small sofas: Don’t want to read alone? Why not select one of these chairs to ensure you can share your experience with others? Alternatively, if you prefer to enjoy a good book alone, loveseats and smalls sofas are perfect for curling up on by yourself.
Adding throws and cushions: No reading nook is complete without those finishing touches – and throws and cushions add both comfort and style to your space. Larger cushions allow for lounging, while smaller, firmer ones can provide lumbar support. For when you find yourself reading long into the evening, a chunky wool throw can add an extra layer of cosiness.
3): Make sure the lighting in your reading nook is just right
Choosing the right lighting for reading is about more than just creating the appropriate atmosphere – it is important to prevent eye strain, headaches and fatigue. You also want to manage glare and minimise the impact of shadows, as well as thinking about how your lighting changes throughout the day and into the evening.
Maximising natural light: This involves strategic placing of your seating around any windows if possible, so that you can illuminate your reading space while at the same time considering your privacy and comfort. This is another reason why a conservatory works well as a reading nook, because of its privacy and its abundance of natural light. Try to position yourself so you are not overwhelmed by outside light, or left struggling because of glare from a low sun. Effective window coverings, including blinds, can be useful here.
Adding floor or table lamps for evening reading: If you are planning to read into the night, consider how you will light your reading space in a cosy, ambient way. Floor and table lamps can help with that shift into the evening, with dimmable lights in particular providing a seamless transition and allowing you to adjust the brightness according to your needs.
Warm vs cool lighting choices: While warm lighting (2700K to 3000K, providing a yellow-orange glow) is ideal for evening relaxation, mimicking sunset tones and offering a cosy atmosphere, cool lighting (4000K to 6000K, providing a crisp white or blue-toned light) is great for longer, more detailed reading sessions. Choose the one which is most appropriate for your style of reading, as well as which best completes your décor.
4): Create the right atmosphere for the perfect read
Having selected the perfect space to create your reading nook, make sure it feels like an inviting environment and the ideal setting for you to lose yourself in a good book for a few hours. Create the right atmosphere by considering the following:
Colour schemes – calming vs bold tones: Your choice of colours will depend on whether you want to establish your reading spot as a serene, relaxing area or as an invigorating, intimate and dramatic space. For the former, select colours such as soft blues, sage greens and warm beiges to make your nook feel open and airy. If you prefer the latter, opt for forest greens, navy blues, deep reds or even black to create a more moody and rich atmosphere.
Textures – rugs, blankets, soft furnishings: The materials you choose for your reading nook can all add warmth, comfort and visual interest. Choosing things that feel good to the touch, particularly when selecting rugs and blankets, can make the space seem more comfortable and luxurious, while mixing smooth and soft textures can help it feel curated – rather than one dimensional. Incorporating natural materials, such as wood and wicker, can also add an organic, grounding touch.
Acoustics – keeping the space quiet and serene: Immersing yourself in your book while reading is critical, so try to limit outside noise invading your reading nook. Consider whether you want total silence or a specific soundscape (such as natural sounds or soft music) as part of creating the perfect atmosphere.
The view – having a connection to nature: If you are seeking a tranquil atmosphere for your reading nook, positioning your seating if possible to take in a view of nature (such as the garden or any nearby green space) is great way to achieve this. It not only triggers a relaxation responsebut it also provides a place to gaze away from your book from those moments when you need a break. ConservatoryLand customer Mr Hunter said he appreciated being able to relax in a bright and airy conservatory when reading, because he could take in the outdoor views at the same time. Read his story here.
5) Select smart storage for your books
In addition to ensuring your reading nook does not get cluttered, choosing sensible ways to store your books can help you to maximise the space and add further visual appeal. Here are some possible storage options:
Floating shelves: These are a great way to free up space on the floor, particularly if your reading retreat is tucked into a corner. They can also be arranged in various configurations (such as staggering them for a modern look or stacking them to save space) and can be used for ornamental or personal items, as well as books.
Built-in bookcases: These units can fit perfectly into small or awkward spaces, helping you to make the most of every inch of your reading nook. Well-executed, customised storage units can also add value to your property.
Multi-functional furniture with hidden storage: This is an ideal way to keep all your reading essentials within reach, while stopping your space from looking cluttered and chaotic. Ottomans, benches or window seats can also provide great seating as well as storage.
6) Add a side table to your nook for extra space
There is nothing more frustrating than an interrupted reading session because you have forgotten your drink, a snack or your reading glass.
Ensuring your nook has some sort of side table or dedicated spot for your reading essentials is therefore critical, so make sure you don’t overlook this. It is also a great place to put your next book when you are ready. Just make sure everything is within arm’s reach if possible.
7) Insert personal touches to make your reading nook cosy
It is only through personalising your reading nook that you can turn it from a functional area to a personal sanctuary – one which you associate with comfort, relaxation and mindfulness.
In addition to your choice of colours, textures, lighting and furnishing, think about those other elements you could incorporate to make the space feel truly yours. This could be decorations, fairy lights, scents or scented candles, plants, artwork, photos or even a carefully curated collection of books. Remember to add those personal items which remind you why you love reading in the first place.
Why a conservatory is the ideal reading retreat
Finding an existing space inside your home to establish a dedicated reading nook can be challenging. That is why a conservatory is a great option for creating your ideal space to curl up with a good book.
Natural light for daytime reading: A conservatory is designed to maximise natural light and create an uplifting atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a spot of reading. This reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Peaceful, secluded environment: Offering a spacious and multi-functional additional room attached to your home, a conservatory provides a calm place away from noise and distractions so you can read without being disturbed.
Connection to nature and garden views: Not only does a conservatory offer year-round usability, it offers a seamless connection to the outdoors while you are reading, providing a connection with nature and important views to take in during breaks from your book.
Flexible design options for cosy or spacious setups: There are lots of decisions to be made when creating a perfect reading nook, so having a flexible space like a conservatory can help you work out the right design for you.
How can ConservatoryLand help?
A conservatory offers the most flexible and versatile ways to create a reading nook that will provide relaxation and aid wellbeing.
It can be designed as a bespoke additional room that is quiet, cosy, relaxing and helps you to fully immerse yourself in your reading. It is ideal all-year round, offering natural light, a connection to nature, a tranquil atmosphere and secluded space to retreat.
Browse our range of conservatory styles to find the perfect space for your reading room at home here.
