Creating Nests in Open-Plan Spaces
The cool-weather nesting season is just around the corner. Here's how to cozy up a wide expanse of space
I am a freelance editorial and wedding photographer and Houzz contributor based out of Hershey, PA. Come visit me at 'A Nest for All Seasons' where I write about design, photography and modern garden living!
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The weather's hot right now, but fall is just around the corner. Soon, it'll be time to start rethinking our decor and planning pockets of space to cuddle into.
It's easy to think that a nook or nest can only fit in country-style homes or tiny cottages, but that's simply not the case. Comfortable hideaways feel just as much at home in modern, open-plan spaces such as lofts.
Read on to debunk a few common misconceptions about nests and your home's style.
It's easy to think that a nook or nest can only fit in country-style homes or tiny cottages, but that's simply not the case. Comfortable hideaways feel just as much at home in modern, open-plan spaces such as lofts.
Read on to debunk a few common misconceptions about nests and your home's style.
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Modern, Open-Plan Spaces Can Have Nests
Nesting and modern design are not mutually exclusive. Check out this design, which nestles a window seat under the open, modern stairway. Sitting in that seat with a book and staring out the massive window at the endless vista would be a great way to spend a chilly winter day.
Nesting and modern design are not mutually exclusive. Check out this design, which nestles a window seat under the open, modern stairway. Sitting in that seat with a book and staring out the massive window at the endless vista would be a great way to spend a chilly winter day.
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| Open floor plans don't mean that you can't create nooks. Try placing a sofa or bed horizontally under a window for the perfect nap and reading spot. The short wall at the back of this seating area creates just enough of an enclosure to feel secluded and safe. More on how to create a nest |
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| Any Kitchen Can Have a Nest Open, modern kitchens don't have to have stark, uncomfortable seating. Nestle a little table, chair and bench seat into a window for the perfect place to watch the winter birds. |
by David Whitney
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My favorite breakfast nooks are the smaller ones that feel extra cozy — little benches tucked into a pocket of space with a view into the backyard. A spot like this is where I would spend every morning with a cup of coffee, my legs curled up and my laptop in front of me.
A restaurant-style booth in vivid orange adds a comfortable nook without compromising style in this modern kitchen.
Modern and Country Bathrooms Can Feel Cozy
Are you redoing a bathroom this winter? Consider enclosing your tub or placing it in a nook to create a sense of privacy. This little blue tub makes the perfect nest for wintertime bubble baths with a view out the centered window.
Are you redoing a bathroom this winter? Consider enclosing your tub or placing it in a nook to create a sense of privacy. This little blue tub makes the perfect nest for wintertime bubble baths with a view out the centered window.
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If you are planning to rip down walls to expand your bathroom, you might want to reconsider that choice and think about the benefit of a tiny bathing area. With all those walls and that one little window, it is the ideal nest for a long, hot soak.
Nooks and Nests in Modern Hallways and Staircases
Are you tired of an unused staircase landing? Create a little nest with bookshelves and a bench seat, and anchor it with a small area rug.
Are you tired of an unused staircase landing? Create a little nest with bookshelves and a bench seat, and anchor it with a small area rug.
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This little nest is a great addition to this modern hallway space. The pillows and cushion have clean lines and simple style to keep the look consistent.
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If there's an odd space at the bottom of your staircase, outfit it with a deep window seat and load it up with pillows and blankets for fall. Keep the look eclectic with a modern table and flooring.
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Go for a more classic look with whites and walnut and carve out a little nest at the bottom of your main stairwell. The game board in the tabletop makes this a perfect place for two.
Whether you are working with a large home or a small cottage, a modern loft or a classic Colonial, you can add a nest to keep your home feeling cozy and comfortable at any time of year.
Keep your accessories and furnishings consistent with your style and don't be afraid to leave walls up when renovating your space. A little nest to hide in can make your home a peaceful retreat from the world.
More:
Creating Nests in Unexpected Places
How to Create an Outdoor Nest
Keep your accessories and furnishings consistent with your style and don't be afraid to leave walls up when renovating your space. A little nest to hide in can make your home a peaceful retreat from the world.
More:
Creating Nests in Unexpected Places
How to Create an Outdoor Nest
Ideabook published on July 31, 2012.
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Laurel - that is LOVELY! The framed prints make the space so purposeful and the bookshelves are divine!
We'd love to see your space!! Why not share what you have done with your apartment with houzz? ...and check out Laurel's 400 sq. ft studio space above!