As readers, we all need a space to curl up with our books. The tricky part is figuring out where it should be and what should be in it. Here at Bookstr, we’re giving you a roadmap to start and the rest is up to you. So, what do you need?
A Good Book (Obviously)
You can’t forget about the most important part about a reading corner — your book! Pull open that TBR list and figure out the first novel you’re reading in your new space. Cozy vibes correlate with the romance genre, so here are a few recommendations if that’s your thing.
- Dream Harbor series by Laurie Gilmore
- Lovelight Farms by B.K. Borison (or anything by B.K.)
- My December Darling by Lauren Asher — A New Release!
A Full Bookshelf
Besides making sure you have the perfect book to ring in your new setup, you have to make sure you have a full bookshelf behind you. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to spice up your shelves, there are plenty of resources for all.
When starting from scratch, a good practice is to go to Google images or Pinterest and start looking for your inspiration. How many bookshelves do you need and how do you want them arranged? How do you want them decorated to match the rest of your space? These are the important questions to answer.
With a smaller space and less books, glance at this shelf on Amazon that’s five tier and made of wood. If you’re looking for something festive for the holiday season, choose this fun book tree! Or, if you’re just looking for plain old bookshelves, click here for a variety of affordable Amazon options. Head over to your nearest Hobby Lobby or Target and find some fun decor for those empty spaces on the shelves.
Warmth
Staying warm is essential in these winter months. Whether you just want a very soft blanket or a heated one, Amazon is a great place for options. If you happen to have a fireplace in your space or a space heater, that’s even better. Light that fire, or turn on the electric fire, and snuggle up under your cozy blanket. Be careful though, as you might get too cozy and fall asleep. Always watch your heaters for safety!
If you’re in a warmer area that doesn’t get too cold — lucky you — blankets are still a great idea. Maybe you just use a light one and keep your fan running. Or, maybe you’re like me and wear a sweatsuit with the fan on high and a blanket on top for the vibes. Our significant others may despise us, but we can live with that, right?
Soft Lighting
Let’s all say it at once — no overhead lighting! You never, ever turn on the overhead lights. Having a few lamps spread about and putting warm light bulbs in them is key. Get these dimmable lights from Amazon and have that extra level of control over the ambiance.
If you are a candle fanatic like myself, make sure you are stocked up on those seasonal scents. Bath and Body Works is your go-to for candles, especially when they have deals for being a rewards member. Be sure to sign up and never miss out on the next candle sale. These are a good alternative to lamps if you have enough natural light coming in your corner.
Oversized, Soft Chair
You still need something to lay on and drape your comfy blanket over, so make sure you have an oversized corner chair. You could go for a Sherpa bean bag chair from Amazon that gives you plenty of neck, back, and leg support. Or — if you can swing it — purchase this faux fur chaise lounge that would fit you and your significant other or cuddly pet! This one is big enough that you could even take a nap after reading. After all, many of us get so lost in our bookish worlds that we end up reading way later than we expect.
Distraction-Free Zone
You can’t have any distractions when trying to read thick books like Harry Potter or Throne of Glass. You need complete concentration so you don’t get lost. Here are a few ways you can create your distraction-free zone.
- Purchase noise-cancelling headphones
- Turn your phone on “Do Not Disturb”
- Mute those notifications. If someone needs to get a hold of you, that’s what the “notify anyway” feature is for. Otherwise, the real world can wait.
- Establish boundaries with your household
- Make it clear that you want reading time and that you will rejoin reality when you’re done. For those of us with gamer spouses, this is the perfect scenario for everyone.
- Declutter
- You don’t want to be staring at that pile of dirty laundry on your floor while you’re trying to get swept away in a story. Tidy up your space before you settle in.
However your space ends up looking, we hope you enjoy it. After all, you’re the one who will be living in it. Happy reading!
Take a look at what another Bookstr team member thinks you should use for your reading nook.
See some more contemporary romance recommendations here to complete your winter TBR.
