While it can be comforting and cozy to read a book with the snow falling outside your window, it also can be magical reading a favorite novel outside in the sunshine. In fact, the only thing better than reading a great book is reading it with a peaceful ambiance to help you lose yourself in the story, words and place. While you may have seen several indoor reading nooks created in small spaces under the stairs or in the closet, now that we are approaching warmer months, the outdoors calls us to do the same thing too. Looking for some temporary escapes, there are backyard nooks that a new home or even an older one can help you create.
- The Tent : A reading nook does not have to be a structure that is already built. Creating something simple for a day is just as easy and enjoyable. Think of creating just a simple tent from a flowing sheet on a tree branch. Add a few pillows and cushions on the ground and you’re ready to go! It’s a good reminder of childhood when you used to create tents like this under your bed and now you can enjoy in the fresh air.
Image: Daniel’s Lawn and Tree
- Hidden Garden: If you are lucky enough to have a backyard full of trees, you can also create a hidden garden theme reading area. For this, think about picking out a shaded spot and adding outdoor chairs or a couch with colorful patterns or prints for pillows. You can also fill the space with lots of flowers that are either planted in the ground or in containers. If you’re not sure what type of flowers would work best for your hidden garden, ask the experts! Daniel’s Lawn and Tree provides a variety of services that can help you find the perfect peonies or dainty daffodils to bring color, light and smells to your reading oasis. If trees are needing to add more room for your garden, they also offer tree care in the New Castle area, landscaping maintenance or landscaping installation.
- Cottage Nook: Creating a reading nook in the form of a cottage shed is the way to go if you’re fan of classic novels such as Jane Austen or Emily Bronte. Your local hardware store can help you create the cottage shed you’re envisioning. They offer standalone sheds that are able to be converted into a nook with just a little DIY and work on your end. Inside, you could add a few coats of paint, bookshelves, a comfortable sofa or table and chairs as well as a small little portable air conditioner when the weather gets even warmer. On the outside, add some decorative flowers or a cute sign that says ‘shh I’m reading’ on the door handle so others do not disturb you.
- Pool Nook: We all love to enjoy a good book by the pool but how can you make it even more peaceful? Grab a few chairs, a soft towel and headphones to enjoy your reading area. Add some shade with an umbrella, a cold water bottle to keep you hydrated and some snacks as well. If you don’t have a pool but enjoy the water, bring out headphones and add water sounds such as the ocean or pool to keep you engaged.
There are several other new ideas to create outdoor reading nooks to match your personality and how you want to enjoy your new novel. If you prefer to sit in a stuffy chair with a support, a comfortable oasis with plush pillows and blankets or just a blanket on the grass, your reading nook should reflect you and how to get lost in a book.
All of the outdoor reading areas sound amazing.