Lovely photo!!!

Can you switch the table to go horizontal? And then add a bench with a back -- and cushions to the window. The bench could be used by diners or for a cup of tea.

And yes -- you could switch the two end chairs to upholstered wing chairs. Check Craigs List in your local area! And then simply enjoy your tea and book by the window. Add a small table with a lamp for reading, if necessary!

Jan at Rosemary Cottage

Jan, thank you. I will measure to see if the table can go horizontally. I've never had it any other way. I like the idea of comfy chairs, too, so I'll keep my eyes open.

...Pam

I really like the idea of the landing at the top of the stairs. I've seen it done in a magazine, and always love it. Do you have a picture and dimensions of that area?

Best Years -- I'll have to move a bookcase out of there before I can take a decent pic. That will be a weekend project for me since the bookcase needs to move, regardless (because its ugly). Suffice to say the space is SMALL. Everything about my home is teeny which is why my bedroom is in the basement; I couldn't get my king sized bed up the stairs.

Both places sound lovely...I like Jan's idea of turning the table and adding a comfy bench with lots of cushions~

I like the idea of the landing -- more private and cozy, so more of a one-person space. The dining nook, while lovely and sunny and bright, is just 'too public' IMO for a reading nook.

(But maybe that's just a commentary on my life. When my boys see me reading, they invariably seem to think/say "Mom, since you're not doing anything, could you...")

If the landing is big enough I would use that space. If I tried to read anywhere near the kitchen/dining room, I would be interrupted a million times a day!!!

Great family pic :)

There is nothing to say that you can't have two reading areas.Put a comfy chair and a small table on the landing. But also put a couple of comfortable chairs in the dining area. That way that area can be both a reading area and a quiet area for talking between a couple of people.

Thanks for all of your ideas, everyone. Happy Ladi is right. I'm going to setup BOTH areas.

The fact is that I WANT to be in the dining room because its so bright -- and close to the tea kettle -- but I may get bothered there or the kids may hijack my spot for homework.

I'd be less comfortable in the landing, but it will be quieter and I think both spots would get used.

I'm going to see what I can establish this weekend with existing furniture and then keep my eyes open for more ideal pieces.

Thanks for all of your insights.

...Pam

Some inspiration pics:

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Here is a link that might be useful: How to make a reading nook

More inspirations to share...

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Here is a link that might be useful: Reading Nook Roundup

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I'll post pics of my real spot later. I've found a chair on kijiji I may bring home, too.