Guest Picks: Rainy-Day Reading Spaces
20 ideas for decorating your home library or reading nook
Trina McNeilly
December 10, 2011
I'm a busy mom of 4, looking for the lovely. In my spare minutes, I author:
la la Lovely http://lalalovelythings.com/
...A lifestyle blog with an eye for design in all areas of life, regularly featuring décor, design, style, travel, family, children, food + any other thing that may be lovely.
I'm a busy mom of 4, looking for the lovely. In my spare minutes, I author:
la... More
When the weather is dreary, be it raining or snowing, the first thing that comes to mind is curling up with a good book. I think every home should have a special spot to sit, relax and read. Whether you fancy a home library or a reading nook, these 20 items will ensure that your space will feel a little more like your new favorite escape. — Trina from La La Lovely
If you have a reading nook or corner, I think this wallpaper is beyond fun. It will play up the "library" feel when space is tight.
Etsy
This photograph of an actual library in Sweden is stunning. It will surely add any drama that your little reading corner may lack.
It's hard to find a furniture piece that is both formal and friendly. This velvet chair would certainly be quite suitable, in both style and comfort, for a library or reading nook.
Amazon
A little greenery in a dark reading corner always adds an extra touch of life, especially when it's cold or rainy out. I've been wanting a Fiddleleaf Fig like this one for quite some time.
Lighting totally sets the ambiance for a room, and what really makes a reading room into a library is the perfect sconce. Mount these directly onto a bookshelf for a little extra drama.
Gift Republic
When reading, a cup of tea or coffee is always in order. I would love to sip my milky tea from this cheeky mug while reading a classic.
Terrain
Other than books, a library or reading room needs a bookshelf the most. I'm in love with this one, as it looks like it just jumped out of an old English manor.
Of course you will need your favorite books to fill your bookshelves, but you will want to display, front and center, a few books that are equally as pretty on the outside as the words printed inside.
This little table would be just right in a library or reading corner. It would be perfectly comfortable next to a table or window seat and happy to hold your cup of tea.
This gorgeous bench could make a window seat in a minute's time. I think it would also be just as happy tucked in a little corner or nook. Curling up on this bench with a book in hand would be pure bliss.
Baskets are great catchalls for magazines, newspapers and books. This basket would work great in both traditional and modern reading rooms.
Reading by candlelight — what could be more relaxing? I love the design and quirk that these candles would add to a home library. Their letters pair well with the books.
Utility Canvas
Getting lost in a book on a snowy or rainy day requires a blanket. This blanket would do the trick. It's neither too stuffy nor too casual.
Etsy
Bookends are like the icing on the cake as far as books are concerned. I love these brass seashells. They are shiny and take my thoughts adrift to sunny days.
A reading lamp is a must for a home library, reading nook or even just a chair in quiet corner. I adore the style of this twin lamp; it's double the fun.
This vintage rug would be the very thing to make a rather ordinary room into a home library. The dark colors are so rich and the pattern is perfection.
Etsy
A tray that sits on your bench or shelf and holds your cup of tea or coffee is a must. This gold bamboo tray is so interesting.
RedinFred
This pattern would add just the right amount of interest to a reading chair or bench.
Leather chairs are almost a must in a home library. I think the worn feel of this chair, in particular, fits the bill. I'll take two, please.
Nursery Works
This is one way to think outside of the box when it comes to storing your books. If you're going to make a reading nook, why not make it inviting for little ones while also adding some interest for adult eyes? I would love to have one of these bookshelves for my children.
Next: Get Ideas for Cozy Library Spaces
Great books for your home library or reading nook
Next: Get Ideas for Cozy Library Spaces
Great books for your home library or reading nook
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Laura- that is a great idea. Thanks for sharing!