As a mom of three, I sometimes crave a moment in a place off to itself, such as an outdoor reading nook. If you are a mom, you know what I mean. For the past thirteen years, I haven’t gone to the bathroom without an interruption. So, it is nice to be able to sneak off for a few minutes by myself. This post may have some affiliate links through which I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. I am also going to add links to some books I’ve enjoyed over the years (just for the fun of it)! The links will be hidden in the words for reading materials. Let me know if you’ve read any of them and what your favorites are.
I dream of a peaceful corner outside just to slow down for a few minutes, have a moment of quiet time with the Lord, enjoy His creation, or maybe read a chapter or two of a book.
I love to read! (My oldest loves to read, too. She also likes to hide when she reads, usually because she hasn’t done her chores or finished her Math homework!)
I’m always on the hunt for a good book, and also good books for my young teen. If you have a recommendation, please let me know in the comments! Let me get back on track! Here I have five tips to create a special outdoor reading nook that doesn’t require a big budget or fancy tools.
Tip 1: Choose a Quiet Spot
On the quest for the perfect spot there are a few things to consider.
- Is it shady?
- Does it have natural light?
- Is there shelter from wind?
- Is there a good view of nature?
Some of these criteria, sadly, will not be met without a little help from you. So, find a spot off to itself, such as a shady tree, porch corner, or balcony, and let us give it a little help.
So, you found a spot off to itself, but is it shady? No? Try a patio umbrella (this one is available in several vibrant color/pattern options. Don’t forget the base).
Are you on a patio or balcony with close neighbors? Would a privacy screen or garden trellis work for you? (This one checks all the boxes for me! Planter AND a cozy nook to read!? Yes and Yes!) I can picture it now: a watering can in one hand and page turner in the other!
Tip 2: Add Comfortable Seating
The next step in creating your very own perfect place of privacy would be comfortable (and maybe a little whimsical) seating. There are several fun options out there.
- Adirondack Chair (foldable—if your nook cannot be permanent or if you want to bring your new favorite chair on vacation!)
- Papasan Chair
- Hammock (This one looks so fun! I need to make a space for this in my life!)
- Cushioned Bench
- Swing (Add one of these cushions to make it a great place to snuggle with hubby or one of the babies—no matter how big they get—I know, I know this is supposed to be a get-away, but I can’t help myself!)
- Or this swing that comes with a cushion
- No reading nook seating list would be complete without a swing chair!
What you choose depends on the space you have chosen for your private oasis.
Tip 3: Layer in Soft Textures
Now it is time to make our space super cozy and welcoming. I am almost always chilly. As I type this, I am in a hoodie and fuzzy pjs (and would not complain if someone threw a blanket over my legs). So, I would be remiss if I left out a throw blanket. This waffle weave blanket looks nice, is lightweight, and it is 100% cotton (I love the idea of surrounding myself with real fibers). I think this 100% cotton muslin is my favorite! On to pillows! These square pillows with flowers are beautiful (you can get them in several different themes and change them with the season). Sometimes I prefer an oblong pillow (these are also available in many color options). Last comfort item—a nice rug underfoot. This rug has several color/pattern options that can pull all your pieces together.
Tip 4: Include Soft Lighting
You have created a lovely space that you are eager to get away to! If you tend to only find time after the littles have gone to bed, it might be dark out by the time you get to enjoy your new space. (It actually sounds nice to go outside with a good book and listen to the night sounds while enjoying a few minutes to yourself.)
Here are three solar-powered lighting options! These string fairy lights look elegant. Maybe you want lights that make a little more of a statement, such as these Edison bulbs. I also love the way these lanterns look and you can put them anywhere you need more light (note—mason jar not included). I am getting older and I find that I need more light to be able to read a book with smaller print. A book light is a must for my reading nook! There are so many wonderful lighting options out there to give some beautiful ambiance to your getaway.
Tip 5: Keep Your Favorites Within Reach
I know you are thinking about rain and spiders making your cozy getaway more of a creepy getaway, but just to make sure that doesn’t happen this storage box is perfect to keep your blanket folded away from the precipitation and creepy crawlies! You can also store books and magazines inside.
Well, we are well on our way to making a wonderfully quiet, cozy spot just for ourselves! You can add a few special touches to make it your own and reflect your heart, such as a potted plant, a wind chime, or your favorite handwritten scripture placed in a spot you can see to encourage your spirit. I know whatever you decide on this space is going to be peaceful and restful!!!
Today’s verse is my prayer for you, no matter where you are or what your alone spot looks like, whether a balcony or the kitchen table.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
Philippians 4:7 (NIV)
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Let me know what you think!