Decorate With Intention: A Nook of One's Own
Everyone needs a place to dream. Here's how to create one of your own using the space you have right now
Houzz Contributor. You can also find me on Lolalina (http://www.lolalina.com/), my blog devoted to all of the things that make a house a home - decorating from the heart, living with intention, and savoring life's simple pleasures.
Houzz Contributor. You can also find me on Lolalina (http://www.lolalina.com/),... More »
Virginia Woolf declared, “A woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction.” Whether you are a budding writer, artist, designer, or simply in need of a peaceful refuge, you deserve a creative space reserved just for you.
Having a special spot all to yourself may seem like a luxury, but it need not be large or fancy to fit the bill. The point is to create an atmosphere that nurtures your passions — somewhere you can slip away to, if only for an hour, that leaves you feeling refreshed and renewed.
A whole room is wonderful, and if you have the area, by all means go for it! If not, don't fret. There are many creative ways to carve out nooks in your home. In fact, the solution may be hiding right before your eyes. Join us this week as we explore ideas for designing your dream room with what you've got.
Having a special spot all to yourself may seem like a luxury, but it need not be large or fancy to fit the bill. The point is to create an atmosphere that nurtures your passions — somewhere you can slip away to, if only for an hour, that leaves you feeling refreshed and renewed.
A whole room is wonderful, and if you have the area, by all means go for it! If not, don't fret. There are many creative ways to carve out nooks in your home. In fact, the solution may be hiding right before your eyes. Join us this week as we explore ideas for designing your dream room with what you've got.
| The first step is to take a moment to ponder what you want more time and space for in your life. Pour yourself a fresh cup of coffee or tea and let yourself daydream about this. Do you want to sit in peace and quiet and finally dig into that stack of novels on your bedside table? Are you itching to pick up a paintbrush? Pining for a comfy place to catch up with your best friend? Whatever comes to mind, take note. This is your space, so make sure it serves your purpose. If art is on your passion list, you may not need to look any farther than your kitchen for a perfect spot to create. Kitchens usually come equipped with all the studio basics: easy-to-clean surfaces, a sink at the ready and plenty of storage space. Try positioning an easel or a small drafting table near a window that gets good light, and stow supplies in a cupboard nearby. Still worried about spills? Keep a few basic drop cloths handy (available at most hardware stores) and toss one down before opening up those paints. |
| If you have a window with a lovely view, it could soon be your favorite spot with the addition of a built-in window seat. If you are looking for a place to read and daydream, this is ideal. |
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| There is no need to limit your thinking to spots inside the home. If you have a porch, you can transform one side into your own personal oasis. An Adirondack chair with a footrest and cushy pillow tucked in among lush greenery would make a delightful spot to write in a journal or simply relax in peace with a tall iced tea. |
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The garden offers even more possibilities. A table set beneath the shade of a tree or arbor would make an inspiring place to work. Consider adding a mirror or small water feature as a romantic finishing touch.
If relaxation is what you need, go for a cushy lounge area on the back porch or patio, complete with fluffy pillows and a tray for tea and snacks. Outdoor curtains that can be drawn shut for privacy would be perfect for midafternoon naps.
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You can create a minilounge indoors as well, by converting a nook or a closet into a getaway. White and warm sandy beige paired with rustic wood would make a soothing palette.
by Jeanette Lunde
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Have a long or L-shaped living room? This configuration is notoriously challenging to decorate as one space. Rather than fight it, use it to your advantage and carve out a personal nook. Leave the larger section of the room for use by all, and claim the smaller end for yourself.
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by Jeanette Lunde
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| Fill your nook with things that make you happy and bring you comfort. Candles, lovely textiles, artwork, fresh blooms from the garden, a stack of inspiring books and a place to put your drink will set the stage for relaxation and dreaming. |
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| If you do your best thinking while, well, literally staring into space, a coffee-bar-style perch placed at the window could be just the ticket. Tall bar stools with high backs and bars to rest your feet on provide comfort for a longer stretch of time, while a built-in table makes the most of your space. |
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| If your home's interior is cramped but you are blessed with a large outdoor space, the solution could be an outdoor room or a converted garden shed. With French doors and a brick entry, you may never want to leave. |
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by Ish and Chi
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| Other places to look for extra space include a finished basement, an attic, or even the garage. Warm up the space with soft lighting, an area rug and colorful art, and you will soon forget that your creative studio is attached to your home at all. More: How to Create a Nest at Home Tips for Finishing a Basement or Attic |
Comments
ej610 My blood pressure went down just looking at these relaxing spaces.
14 months ago · Like
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Laura Gaskill ej610 - Oh, I am so glad to hear that! :)
14 months ago · Like
nanaanne I want every one of these lovely creative areas! They make me feel very happy.
14 months ago · Like
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i_zhan Makes me feel happy for those who own the place :)
14 months ago · Like
Art and Hammer I also love every one of these so well composed places
14 months ago · Like
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June Dimmock Loved them all ,just love relaxing places
14 months ago · Like
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GrandProjects Very nice. Love it!
14 months ago · Like
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Ideabook published on March 14, 2012.
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