Imagine your ideal reading nook. Soft sunlight filters through the window—or maybe it’s raining outside, creating a perfectly cozy atmosphere. A plush chair beckons as the scent of your favorite old book fills the air. Meanwhile, a cushy blanket is draped casually over the armrest, while one small basket nearby holds your current reads, and another holds a few extra pillows and blankets in case the weather turns chillier.
Why Create a Cozy Reading Nook?
A reading nook can be a treasured sanctuary in an otherwise busy home. It’s a place for you to escape to, where you can forget about the pressures and responsibilities of the outside world and immerse yourself in your favorite stories.
Besides offering the kind of quiet retreat that’s essential for many people, a reading nook can also help you maintain a consistent reading habit and make sure you carve out a chunk of time for yourself each day.
Thoughtfully organizing the space—such as by incorporating baskets for books and blankets, as we’ll discuss in the next section—adds both charm and practicality. All your reading nook essentials will have a spot within arm’s reach.
A well-designed reading nook goes beyond being simply a place to read. It makes your home more comfortable and improves its overall atmosphere. Thoughtfully arranging seating, lighting, and storage makes it possible to create a space that invites you to linger, relax, and fully enjoy your reading experience.
Where to Create Your Reading Nook
Choosing the right spot is one of the most important parts of putting together a functional, comfortable reading nook. We’d recommend looking for a quiet corner or other underutilized space in your home, such as by a window, next to a bookshelf, in a nook under the stairs, or in a small alcove.
Especially if you’re easily distracted, you should choose a spot with limited foot traffic so you can focus on your reading with fewer interruptions.
If you think you’ll be doing a lot of daytime reading, choose a spot with lots of natural light. If you prefer to read in the evening, make sure to add a warm lamp (this will also make the space feel cozier than overhead lighting would).
Choosing the Right Wicker Basket Storage for Books and Blankets
Wicker baskets are the ideal storage solution for a cozy reading nook. Their natural texture gives them a timeless charm that blends with just about any home aesthetic, while their handcrafted durability makes them a smart investment for long-term storage.
As you pick out your wicker baskets, think about the sizes and shapes that will work best for your space and storage needs. For example, if you prefer to store blankets rolled up, tall baskets like this tall narrow wicker storage basket are a great solution. For stacks of books, on the other hand, wider, shallower baskets like this long low wicker basket work best.
Plus, baskets with handles—like this pole handle wicker storage basket—make it especially easy to pick up the baskets and rearrange your nook as needed.
If you have an idea of what kinds of baskets you might need, you can start searching The Basket Lady by basket type, size, or room.
Personalizing Your Reading Nook
Adding elements that reflect your unique personality and style is what makes your reading nook truly yours. In addition to your favorite books and plenty of cozy blankets and throw pillows, incorporate items that bring you joy. These could include:
- Potted plants
- A favorite mug
- A scented candle
- Artwork or framed photos
- Fairy lights
- A sound machine to help with focus
- Seasonal decor
- An end table for drinks and snacks
- An ottoman to rest your feet on
Small personal touches can transform your nook into a welcoming retreat that makes it easy to relax and unwind.
Where To Buy Wicker Baskets for Reading Nook Storage
A mother-daughter business with more than 30 years of experience sourcing wicker baskets, The Basket Lady offers baskets handwoven from eco-friendly rattan by skilled Indonesian craftspeople. Their collection includes baskets in a wide range of shapes and sizes—perfect for organizing books, blankets, and other necessities in your reading nook while adding natural warmth and style to any space.
