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Trevor Tondro 1
Multipurpose use
Alana Hale
Save floor space and create a reading nook that doubles as a guest bed. In her Lake Tahoe cabin, designer Nozu Nozawa designed this multipurpose space as the perfect spot to read your favorite novel, take a nap or host visitors when they come into town.
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Hidden storage
Jen Verrier
The only thing better than a window bench made for reading is a window bench that hides secret storage space. Designer Laura Hodges created a hollow bench with a soft-close lid for storing various items long-term. We love that this reading corner idea is hidden in plain sight.
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Creating Custom Built-ins
Heidi's Bridge
Custom built-in shelving around your daybed will create a super cozy spot for you and your family. Not only will this reading nook idea help you show off your plentiful bookshelf, but designer Shanti Crawford of Indigo & Ochre Design says built-in shelves can also serve as more general storage space that can be used as an office or impromptu guest room.
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Mid-century modern style
Katie Newbern
Vintage pieces and beloved books are a great pairing. Decorating your reading nook with designs from your favorite design era, like midcentury modern, will instantly make the space feel more inviting. Designer Shavonda Gardner's idea for this reading nook in her Sacramento cottage bungalow started out as a pass-through space, but she turned it into a destination through her design.
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Five
Let's go outside
Trevor Tondro
Don't assume that a reading corner has to be indoors only; there's no reason you can't create one outdoors. Designer Jeffrey Alan Marks created a separate sitting room right by the pool, complete with curtains in front for added privacy. It's an introvert's dream, but also ideal for parents keeping an eye on little ones outdoors.
Related: Stylish Above Ground Pool Ideas
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Keep the Future in Mind
Trevor Tondro
Design a reading corner that your kids can enjoy as they grow, just like Jeffrey Alan Marks did for his daughter James. Make sure the space is big enough for you to enjoy stories with your little one, and make sure it's flexible in appearance so it can change with your child's personality over time.
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Warm-up Glasses
William Abranovich
Kathleen McCormick's house features a large wall of modern steel and glass windows that make the space seem to float above the forest. This reading corner is the ideal place for lovers of nature and books to unwind. Light textiles under the lounge chairs and a large rug give a soft touch to the modern materials.
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Sneak into the vault
Eric Piasecki/Otto
Designed by Rita Koenig and architect Gil Schafer III, the alcove is deep enough to double as a guest bed, with drawers beneath the cushions. “It's more than a reading nook or a piece of furniture,” says Schafer.
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Evoke what you love
Seth Smoot
In this reading corner idea, Lauren Nelson Design chose plum-colored fabric for the comfortable swivel chair and incorporated purple throughout the home, paying homage to the homeowner's love of figs. If you have a favorite color, food, or motif, incorporate it into your reading corner. After all, your reading corner should be a place where you enjoy it, and a special low-hanging pendant will add to that vibe.
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Optimize with Outlets
Thomas Ruef
Designer Kati Curtis created plenty of space around the perimeter for books and other items, concealing the cabinetry in an eye-catching glossy red. Pro tip: Install an outlet in an interior corner so you can charge your devices while you nap or read.
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Give yourself a choice
Heidi Caillier
Why not give yourself a choice? In this warm, multi-level study designed by Heidi Caillier, book-loving readers can choose from a rich catalogue of literary works and a range of comfortable seating options. Stretch out on the window seat cushions or recline in a rolled-up armchair.
Related: The most comfortable chairs to relax in
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Making the most of a strange layout
Shade Degges
Make the most of your architectural quirks, so they actually become your favorite part of the space. Create a custom bench by the window and add cushions to create a window nook for reading or relaxing (no need for a bulky sofa that takes up too much space!). Stack the cushions and add a pendant light for work, like Jae Joo did here.
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Install thought-provoking artwork
Paul Raside
In this Andrew Flesher-designed foyer, “zoomed-in” and “pixelated” paintings of the ocean create the perfect contemplative backdrop for analyzing The Waves or Moby Dick.
Related: 20 Modern Coastal Ideas We Love
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Think about scale
Paul Raside
A reading nook doesn't need a quirky backdrop or provenance like an empty staircase landing to be inviting. A sling chair in a fun, vibrant green fabric lends a laid-back feel, while a side table and floor lamp add a modern touch. It's the perfect size for Andrew Flesher's bedroom.
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Channel Vacation
Eric Piasecki
Easy, carefree living is the theme at this summer home designed by Crook Jones. Sea views and natural ash wood panelling framing the windows will make you feel like you're floating away, engrossed in a novel (without getting seasick!). Who doesn't love reading on holiday? The custom wraparound side table is perfect for holding a drink and your favourite book.
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Remodeling a strange room
Lianne Ford Interiors
Leanne Ford transformed this quirky basement nook into a veritable sanctuary. This reading corner idea includes low cushions that complement the sloping ceiling while creating a cozy, homey feel. Pendant lights encourage late-night reading, and a coffee table provides the space you need for after-dinner drinks or coffee.
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Blend
Laure Joliet
Designed by ETC.etera at the Firehouse Hotel, this multi-purpose corner (read here! have a coffee here! work here! post to Instagram!) is incredibly stylish. Just looking at it transports us to the English drawing room we've always dreamed of – one that seems to come from both the past and the future.
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Clean the corners
Studio DB
It may be hard to concentrate on your book with this view as your backdrop, but that's why it faces inward. A modern floor lamp and lucite-framed chaise lounge create a beautiful contrast against more sleek, traditional elements like nesting tables. This reading corner idea designed by Studio DB has all the staples with a more sophisticated twist.
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Surround with books
Phoebe Howard
A reading nook in a gorgeous Phoebe Howard-designed room's asymmetry adds an element of interest: one wall is lined with built-in bookshelves and back cushions, while the other is decorated with artwork, making it the perfect spot to unwind.
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Let's go outside
Thomas Ruef
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