6 of the best reading nook styles around
What's better than curling up with a book and a cup of tea? Doing so in one of these gorgeous spaces...
1, The unexpected
Spaces under the stairs have been turned into many a cozy nook, but this home upped the ante and turned what would otherwise have been an ordinary hallway into a magical spot. The tree trunks, lanterns and stone-effect cushions create a fairy forest atmosphere indoors.
What to read here: The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
2, The Studious Zone
Double up a home office area as somewhere to catch up on your reading. Perfect for those who prefer to catch up on their articles online. Colourful wallpaper and kitsch accessories keep the area warm and friendly – far from a sterile working environment.
What to read here: housetohome.co.uk (obviously!)
3, Starting them young
Get the Ideal Home Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.
Whether as a place to read to your little ones, or let them browse away by themselves, a dedicated reading area for children is an inspired idea. Keep things light and fresh with mixed materials, bean-bags and lots of light.
What to read here: Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
4, The Secret
If you have a small space to work with, or simply just prefer to tuck yourself away, think about a hidden room! Between the floral wallpaper and turquoise paint, this owner kept things buoyant and feminine - certainly not the usual hole in a wall!
What to read here: The Secret History by Donna Tartt
5, The traditional
If old boy's clubs are your thing, then go for something old-school like the home above. Deep colours on the walls and floor create a cozy haven that will keep you feeling warm on the chilliest of evenings and comfy as you dive into your favourite novel.
What to read here: 1984 by George Orwell
6, Back to nature
Even when the weather isn't warm enough to sprawl on the lawn with a book, a comfy window seat and a pile of cushions will keep you feeling in touch with nature. Keep the colours earthy and surround yourself with plants and flowers.
What to read here: Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Heather Young has been Ideal Home’s Editor since late 2020, and Editor-In-Chief since 2023. She is an interiors journalist and editor who’s been working for some of the UK’s leading interiors magazines for over 20 years, both in-house and as a freelancer.
-
When to plant hollyhock seeds – you have two windows a year to choose from
Temperature is key to ensure beautiful blooms
By Holly Reaney
-
Sleep experts reveal 5 bedroom styling tips to encourage good sleep hygiene – improving yours is easier than you think
You’ll never wake up on the wrong side of bed again
By Maddie Balcombe
-
'We wanted a low-maintenance, Zen-style garden to relax in'
Tactile foliage, statement flowers and a dynamic new layout have transformed an unused plot
By Annabelle Grundy