8 Essential Things to Turn a Small Corner into a Cosy Bohemian Reading Nook.

I say essential because there are so many possessions and comfy accents that you can cram into one corner.

Since the focus is on a small area where the rest of the room is already made up, I’m just going to show you the foundations. 

There was a corner in my home office that I had absolutely no idea what to do with. It was such a small space. Most of the area was already taken up with inventory, office supplies and material storage... and of course my desk. 

I then realised it would be the perfect spot for a little reading nook. Why? Because I've been needing something to encourage me to read more. I needed a place to take a proper work break that’s away from my computer screen. 

It was a no brainer, creating a space that’s so inviting would mean I would actually use it. So it had to be cosy and in a bohemian style because I love filling my space with things I love, not what other people love. 

What makes this even better is that I used things that I already had dotted around in other rooms. Bringing these pieces together meant my reading spot had the perfect balance of seamless function and personal decor. 

So let me take you through how I transformed my empty corner to my dream reading nook. 

1. Chair

This is number one because it’s the most important. You've got to get this one right. If it’s not comfy, you’re never going to use this space. I would take comfort over aesthetics any day when it comes to choosing a chair. 

The one I’ve used is surprisingly comfy which works well in all seasons. I usually layer it up during the winter with cosy blankets and it doesn’t feel too hot during the summer. I am looking to update it eventually with a larger chair that’ll give me more room to curl up into a ball.

2. Shelf

If you didn’t skip the intro then you’d know that I made this place to encourage me to read more.

So I didn’t need a full blown bookcase to store my books in. All I needed was a small section that was high up and out of reach of my dog to display candles, wax melts or incense. Depending on what my mood is for the day.

3. Side Table

I don’t think I could read without a hot beverage next to me. Being able to plonk myself in a cosy chair with a coffee on a Saturday morning is bliss. To me, its the perfect way to start the day. 

So a side table is definitely not negotiable. The one I use is the perfect size for what I need it for. I use one that doubles up as shelf storage for my books. If you don’t have a standing light or light that hangs directly above your chair, then a side lamp will be perfect. 

Since it’s a small area, finding a table that has more than one use is crucial. 

4. Lights

I honestly can’t get enough of twinkly string lights. I would have them in every room if I could. Of course, the brighter the light, the better for reading but I much prefer reading in warmer light. It sets the mood and brings out a calming atmosphere which is exactly what I'm after in my reading nook. 

The cosier the space, the more likely you're going to want to come back to it.

5. Plants

I mean you can never have too many plants, right? 

For me, the more the better and I love surrounding myself with house plants on all different levels. This is why I have taller standing plants combined with smaller ones on a table. I then display hanging plants in macrame plant hangers for those hard to reach areas. This will benefit the plant for them to access more light.  

Use curtain rods, ceiling hooks or wooden wall plant hooks to hang your plants up in. Or, you can even place a trailing succulent on a shelf. Then enjoy admiring those dangling vines as you get all comfy in your space. 

Not sure which plants to use? Check out this for some houseplant inspiration.

6. Blankets and Pillows

For comfort, aesthetics and a simple way to easily change things up for seasonal styling. I love using pillows and blankets to play around with texture and colour. The fluffier blanket comes out in winter. 

There’s nothing better than wrapping myself in a cosy blanket, book in hand and being able to look out the window when it’s raining outside. That's slow living for you right there.

7. Curtain

My reading nook is next to a window so a curtain is a must during the winter to keep the heat in. Thermal curtains are perfect for this. You can get them in a bunch of colours to brighten up the space when it’s dark and miserable outside. 

During the summer though, I use a macrame curtain to enhance the bohemian vibes. It adds that extra layer of texture and a hint of privacy without losing all the light. My reading space is in a north facing room so I need as much light as I can get. 

Plus, they can be used as a way to divide the room up. Turn it into more of a cosy den area for you to hide away when you just need a few minutes to yourself of peace and quiet.

8. Rug

Something to tie the room together? Yep, you’ve got this. Rugs are the best! The different colours, patterns, and fluffiness levels is something I also can’t get enough of. There are so many to choose from. I tend to go with thinner, colourful and less fluffy ones in summer. In winter, the thicker, cosy ones come out of hiding.

I suppose it isn’t an essential piece of decor for a reading nook. But it can be a great way to visually separate the areas within the room. Do this by putting the rug underneath the chair that will highlight the area as your go to reading spot.

So have fun with this one and get creative with finishing off your reading nook with a rug that brings you joy. Don’t worry about finding one that fits in perfectly with your colour theme, style or room size. 

If you find one you love, get it! It doesn’t matter when it’s a bohemian style space.

Extras

I’m not classing these as essential but they definitely add to the vibe. Meaningful possessions such as little trinkets, photos, wall hangings or framed artwork. A way to add your own personal touch to the space. 

I love to use candles and wax melts for the extra warm light and fragrance. Depending on my mood I'll light an incense too.

As well as other cosy home accessories such as curtain tie backs and coasters to add more texture and enhance the warmth.

I hope this has helped you with visually mapping out your own reading nook and provided you with some boho inspiration. 

And in case you’re wondering what I’m reading right now…

It’s The Switch by Beth O’Leary. I only recently discovered her previous book (The Flatshare) had been made into a TV series. I loved it (both book and show). Because of that, I had to read The Switch. 

I am close to finishing that book though. The next one on my list is The Versions of Us by Laura Barnett.

Happy Reading!

Let me know in the comments how it’s going with creating your own reading nook. If you have any book recommendations too, fill me in.