8 Tips to Turn Your Attic Into a Snug Reading Nook
If your cherished "me" time starts with a book, take a page from these ideas for converting your attic into a reading heaven
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
Looking for an excuse to clean out your attic? These comfy reading nooks may be just the inspiration you need. Indulge your inner bookworm by converting an often-overlooked space into a place where you can get away from the distractions of the main floor.
by Stonewood, LLC
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Go for double duty. Consider adding storage beneath any built-in seating. Attic spaces tend to be tight, so you’ll be glad you’ve got the extra hiding space for that magazine collection you’ve been slowly working your way through. If you're keeping things simple and just buying furniture, find some good-looking baskets to slip underneath.
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| Furnish it with your favorite pieces. This space is all about relaxation, so scout furnishings that will encourage exactly that. “A cozy chair and ottoman are ideal so that the reader can put their feet up,” says interior designer Diane Bishop. |
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| Embrace the sloped walls. Sloped walls can be an architectural nuisance, but they make for a perfect reading nook. Use the space beneath for a daybed or window seat; the sloped walls emanate instant coziness. |
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| Create a library feel. If you have the space, combine lounge furniture and book storage. Not only will this keep your collection at hand, but having books in sight makes the space feel like a library. |
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| Bring in the reading lamps. Attics are often dark, and a reading nook won't be much good if you can’t see the book in front of you. “A tall lamp with a sheer shade both will light the area and provide soft illumination for the words on the page,” says Bishop. “Choose the right style, and the lamp will double as an attractive design element in the room.” |
Choose colors that induce calm. This space is meant to relax you, so go for soothing shades that set the right tone — usually whites, neutrals, light blues and greens. “Consider painting the ceiling a different color to create interest,” suggests Bishop.
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| Ventilate. Equip your space with adequate ventilation and air circulation so you don't feel uncomfortable when trying to unwind. Attic spaces get hot, and ceiling fans can create a refreshing breeze. |
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| Keep the focus. Remember, the function of your attic has changed. Don't let the focus shift to storage or anything else. “Let this place be just about reading or writing,” says Bishop. “Cut down on clutter and distractions to create a truly peaceful space.” |
Ideabook published on Oct. 2, 2012.
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Marie Meko
ha ha about the possums. Went to Australia and we were going on a night safari to look at possums and everyone said 'ewww!' But possums there look like lemurs, so cute and friendly!
To hot to cold to many vents to run threw beams windows to cut or no ventilation but that's just mine unless your 4ft tall. My attic is just for storage it's big on both sides of, of course a stringe wall separation. So how about just storage ideas?