When I moved into my tiny dorm room, I thought my book-loving dreams had been crushed! With only a 12×12 square to work with, I was sure there was no way to fit a reading nook in such a small space.
But being the resourceful dreamer that I am, I refused to accept defeat. So off to the internet I went (Pinterest to be specific), determined to find some space-saving ideas for creating a reading nook despite my limited square footage.
After a few clicks, I had an arsenal of ideas to work with—from hanging shelves filled with books and fairy lights, to transforming the closet in to transforming the area beneath your bed into a mini nook.
And then it hit me – I didn’t need a lot of space to create my reading nook. Suddenly, my tiny dorm room felt full of potential! I just had to get creative. All I needed was the bare essentials: a comfortable chair, good lighting and preferably some shelves for my books.
Related: The Ultimate Reading Essentials Kit: What Every Book Lover Needs
- I started by clearing out a corner of the room, giving myself just enough space to fit a comfy beanbag chair and a small book shelf.
- I snagged a few cozy throw pillows and blankets off the clearance rack at my local home goods store, and hung up some twinkle lights around the perimeter of the nook for a little extra ambience.
- Lastly, I loaded up the shelf with some of my favorite books and settled in to give it a test run.
Voila! My tiny little space was transformed into the perfect reading nook. And though it may not be a sprawling library, it’s my own little corner of the world and I love it!
So here’s to embracing the challenge, getting creative, and creating a little corner of Literary Oasis wherever you are!🥂
With some creativity and a few key pieces, you too can create a cozy reading nook in even the smallest of places. And I’ll show you how to do it!.
Making the Most of Your Square Footage: Reading Nooks for Tiny Spaces
Creating a reading nook in small spaces is totally possible, and can be quite cozy and inviting with the right touches.
So before we dive into Reading nook Ideas for small spaces and corners (I have got some really creative ones!), here are some tips to get you started on creating your own perfect Reading Nook:
1. Finding the perfect Spot
Don’t let limited space get in the way of your Reading Nook dreams!
Figure out where you want to create a cozy escape and turn it into your own little Reading Haven. Whether it’s a corner of your bedroom, an alcove, or even just a small nook in the living room. With some creativity and clever arranging, you can make it work!
Just make sure there aren’t any distracting noises nearby so you can fully enjoy your Reading Nook experience.
Related: My Guide to creating the Perfect + Super cozy reading Nook!
3. Pick The right colors to make your small reading nook look inviting
Certain colors can make your small space look bigger and more inviting. If you want to add a touch of royalty, why not try some royal blue? Or if you’re feeling festive, get into the moody fall vibes with marsala and gold. The trick isn’t just in the colors, but also how they work together – the right combination of colors can make your tiny space look like a dreamy palace!
And if you’re looking for something more subtle, neutrals are always a great choice. A classic palette of creams and whites will open up the room and add a cozy atmosphere that makes reading even more enjoyable. Plus, adding some texture to the walls with either a patterned wallpaper or some art prints can really make your little nook pop.
2. Choose Space-Saving Furniture
Reading nooks don’t need to be large or take up a lot of space.
For example, you could get a bookshelf that doubles as a cozy armchair (because who says furniture can’t be both comfy and stylish?), an ottoman that opens up to extra storage for all your Reading Nook necessities, or even just a few shelves for books and magazines.
All in all, the key here is choosing furniture that fits perfectly in the space you have while still making it comfortable enough to escape into your favorite book!
3. Taking advantage of natural light to create a cozy atmosphere
Reading without proper lighting is not only uncomfortable, but it can strain your eyes. Natural light is the best kind as it helps you to stay awake and energized.
If natural light isn’t an option, then choose warm lamp lighting with dimmers that allow you to control how much light you need at any given time. Reading should be a relaxing activity and the right lighting is essential to creating the perfect Reading Nook experience.
4. Personalize With cozy touches and Accessories
Reading Nooks are all about you, so personalize it with accessories that make it feel like your own special space!
Add some soft touches such as pillows, blankets and warm colored rugs to make it cozy and help create an inviting atmosphere.
You could even bring in plants to add some life to the reading nook. Consider a Reading Nook sign or artwork that reflects your style and interests. These little touches will help you escape into Reading Land at any time!
5. Utilizing vertical space
Utilizing vertical space is key in creating Reading Nooks for small spaces – because it’s all about making the most of your limited area!
Why not add some shelves to your walls and stock them with books? Or, if you really want to get creative, hang a swing chair from the ceiling and make yourself a Reading Throne!🤗📚
Cozy Corners & Spaces : Ideas for Making the Most of Small Spaces to create reading nooks
With a little bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can create reading nooks in even the tiniest spaces. So carve out that special corner for yourself and start turning those pages!
Here are some ideas that will help you make the most of your square footage:
1. Window seats: Reading nook ideas for small spaces
Window seat, anyone?
Even the tiniest of windows can become your favorite reading corner when you add a comfy bench or two.
And don’t forget your colorful cushions and books. Place a few plants near the window for some added Zen vibes, and you’ll have this dreamy nook in no time.
Reading with the sun beaming down on you? Could it get any better?
2. Under the stairs (*ideal for Harry Potter fans*)
Turn this oft-overlooked spot into a cozy corner for your reading pleasure.
With some cushy pillows, a warm blanket, and plenty of books to keep you company, it’ll feel like the mysterious Gryffindor common room in no time.
And, you can also store extra books and little trinkets that make your reading nook unique.
3. Turn a Closet into Your Very Own Reading Retreat
Your closet can be much more than just a storage space for your shoes. With some imagination, it can become a secret library!
Add shelves to store your books, throw rugs and pillows for comfort, and a few strategically-placed lights to set the mood.
Just make sure no one is watching when you close the door, because you don’t want them to know the secret of your magic closet (*corny reference to Narnia!*)
4. Fairy-talish Canopy: Reading nook for small spaces
Creating a canopy nook is the perfect way to get extra privacy for your reading time.
Hang some sheer curtains from the ceiling or pick up some string lights and enjoy an enchanted, twinkling hideaway as you dive into your favorite stories.
Feeling especially crafty? Sew together a patchwork of fabric swatches to make your own unique canopy. Your bookshelf will thank you! Plus, it’s the perfect way to escape from mundane tasks like chores and homework.
With your own little canopy cocoon, you’ll be able to get lost in a world of fairytales and stories!
5. Push that fluffy Loft bed into a corner
For all you lucky folks with loft beds, it’s time to make the most of that extra space. Tuck away a your loft bed to a corner and suddenly you have a charming little reading nook.
Add some fairy lights, a few cushions and a soft throw blanket, and *voilà*! You’ve got an enchanting spot for all your bookish dreams.
6. Floor Nooks are a thing guys! Like really.
Floor nooks are totally a thing!
Whether you’re living in a micro-apartment, or just want to save some space for other activities, creating a reading nook on the floor is an easy and cozy way to get started.
Just grab some comfy pillows and blankets, arrange them in a corner or by your bed, and you’ve got a cozy floor space where you can relax with your favorite book.
Add a pile of books nearby, a lamp if there’s enough room, and you’ll be all set for the perfect literary escape!
5. Utilize the attic space: Reading nook ideas for small spaces
If you have an attic space, why not make it into a hideaway for reading? With a few simple touches and some imagination, even the most awkward corners of your home can become inviting reading spots.
If you’re feeling ambitious, add fairy lights or streamers to create a cozy atmosphere. Or hang up one of your favorite book covers as wall art and there you go, you have the perfect reading nook!
8. Make the Most of That Unused Corner
If you find yourself with an unused corner, don’t just let it collect dust! Transform it into a cozy reading nook.
You can easily create one by adding some comfy beanbags or pillows, cushions and a few mini bookshelves to store your collection of favorite reads.
You can even hang up a string of twinkle lights or fairy lights for a dreamy, enchanted vibe.
And if you want to go all out, you can even add a hammock chair or hanging egg chair for maximum comfort!
9. Wall spaces are the key to tiny spaces
Making the most of your limited floor space is key for tiny spaces, so don’t forget about the wall space!
To create a functional and adorable reading corner, add some floating shelves to hold books, photos and knickknacks. Or if you’re feeling creative, you can even DIY your own suspended book nook with rope or string, some shelves and a few clips.
It’s a great way to make the most of your wall space and add an extra touch of whimsy. And for that cozy feel, throw in a fluffy area rug and fill it with pillows or beanbags.
10. Bedside Nook: Reading nook for small spaces
Transform your bedside into a romantic reading corner by adding some fairy lights and draping in luxurious throws.
Put out a few of your favorite books, add some throw pillows, and voila! You’ve got yourself an indulgent little hideaway to while away the hours with your latest read.
Bonus points if you add a candle and some calming essential oils to set the mood.
11. The list isn’t complete without a Blanket Fort.👻
Who says you have to stop building forts when you grow up?
Make a blanket fort in whatever space is available and transform it into your own secret reading hideaway.
Plus, all that extra cushioning will make for the comfiest book nook ever! Add some pillows, grab your favorite snack and you’re ready to curl up with your next read.
12. Hammock? More like a Floating Reading Nook.
Create a floating reading nook by buying a high quality hammock and hanging it up in your room.
It’s the perfect way to lounge back and relax while you read– plus, the gentle sway will make it feel like you’re drifting off into another world with every page!
Just make sure you secure it well, so you don’t end up with a surprise adventure of your own😋.
And that is all now.
So if you’re looking to make the most of your tiny spaces and get lost in some amazing stories, don’t fret!
You can turn your tiny closet, forgotten corner or even your bedside into a magical reading nook with just a bit of creativity and some fun furniture. Who knows, you might just be able to make it the coziest corner in your living space.
Now grab a book and get ready for some whimsical daydreaming!🦄
“A library in the middle of a lake, a reading room in the middle of the woods, it doesn’t matter. As long as there are books, I will always find my way home.”
