Transform an Unused Corner into a Cozy Reading Nook

Create a Cozy Reading Nook

Creating a cosy reading nook is a delightful way to transform an unused corner of your home into a personal sanctuary. Whether you have a spacious room or a small alcove, designing a comfortable and inviting reading nook can enhance your home's ambiance and provide a perfect spot for relaxation. With our premium finishes and on-trend effects, you can easily turn any space into a serene reading retreat. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right colours and materials to applying the perfect finishing touches. By the end, you'll have a beautiful and cosy reading nook where you can escape with your favourite books.

Preparing the Walls

  1. Follow the preparation steps on this guide.
  2. Start by cutting in around the edges of the wall with a brush – these are areas the roller cannot easily reach.
  3. Load the roller in the tray with a reasonable amount of paint.
  4. Start rolling the wall in an ‘M’ pattern. Start closest to the natural light source. Continue over the same section until the wall is evenly covered.
  5. Using an unloaded roller begin in the top left corner of your wall and gently let the roller roll down to the baseboards in a straight line with no pressure. A lightness of touch will prevent new roller marks from forming. Repeat this action only this time, slightly overlap your last movement so your roller rubs away the line created by the previous stroke. Continue this across the area you have painted. This is called laying off.
  6. Reload your roller and repeat until the wall is complete.
  7. Working in small sections, apply the second coat with the roller and use a wide brush, dry roller or muslin and drag the paint in a random overlapping pattern.

Painting Furniture Pieces

1. Follow the preparation steps on this guide.

2. Start by cutting in around the edges of the furniture piece with a brush – these are areas the roller cannot easily reach.

3. Apply the first base coat with the roller.

4. Allow drying time as specified on the label.

5. For an even one dimensional finish apply a second coat with the roller and lay off lightly to prevent the formation of roller marks.

6. For a flat finish your project is complete. For a more textured finish, work while the paint is still wet. Use a wide brush, dry roller or muslin and drag the paint in a random, overlapping pattern. For a brushed finish, lay off lightly with a brush. A clear coat may be applied to protect the surface.

Spraying Ornaments

1. Follow the preparation instructions for spraying on  this guide.

2. If using Dulux Duramax Metallic Finish Gold and Dulux Duramax Black Satin, apply in multiple light, mist coats.

3. Follow after spraying instructions on this guide.

4. Now, admire your transformation! Great job!

Tips for a Perfect Cozy Reading Nook

Creating a cosy reading nook involves more than just placing a chair in a corner. To truly make your space inviting and functional, consider the following tips:

Choosing the Right Lighting

Lighting is crucial in a reading nook. Use LED reading lights to provide bright and focused illumination. Adjustable standing reading lamps are ideal for flexibility, allowing you to direct light where you need it most. Soft ambient lighting, such as fairy lights or a small table lamp, can enhance the cosy atmosphere and make your nook a welcoming place to relax.

Selecting Comfortable Furniture

The comfort of your reading nook depends largely on the furniture you choose. Opt for a comfortable chair or loveseat with plenty of cushions. A small side table is also essential for holding books, a cup of tea, or reading glasses. Consider a footstool or ottoman to elevate your feet and enhance relaxation.

Personalising Your Space 

Personalization is key to making your reading nook feel like a special retreat. Decorate with your favourite books, plants, and ornaments. Soft throws and pillows in complementary colours add warmth and comfort. You can also incorporate personal items like family photos, artwork, or souvenirs to give your nook a unique touch.

Incorporating Storage Solutions

Incorporate storage solutions to keep your reading nook tidy and organised. Bookshelves, baskets, and storage bins can help you store books, magazines, and other reading materials neatly. This not only keeps your space clutter-free but also makes it easy to find your next read.

Adding Textures and Layers

Adding different textures and layers can make your reading nook more inviting. Consider using a variety of fabrics for cushions, throws, and rugs. A plush rug underfoot can add warmth and comfort, making your nook even cosier. Experiment with different textures like wool, cotton, and faux fur to create a rich, layered look.

What to consider before you start

How much paint do I need?

Use Dulux's simple, online paint calculator to determine the amount of paint you need.

 

Protect surfaces and furniture

Remove all furniture from the room. Lay down a proper drop sheet to protect your floors. Try not to use old sheets as paint will often soak through. Mask skirting boards, window trim and electrical switches with painter’s tape. If painting the ceiling, tape around light fittings and any vents.

 

Already painted surfaces in good condition

If the surface is already painted and in good condition with no stains or mould you shouldn’t need an undercoat. Check the instructions on the product label to determine if a light sand is required. Ensure the surface is clean, dry and free from dust, oils and grease before you start.

 

Unpainted surfaces in good condition

If you are painting bare, unpainted walls, furniture or ceiling, apply one coat of Dulux® 1Step® Prep over the entire surface. For bare plaster ensure to use Dulux PRECISION® Sealer Binder.

 

Cracks or holes

Patch any cracks and holes with a suitable filler or sealant, such as Selleys® Spakfilla®® . Lightly sand down the surface to a smooth level then dust off. Apply one coat of Dulux 1 Step Primer Sealer Undercoat over the repairs.

 

Mould

If your walls or ceiling have mould, you will need to remove the mould with Selleys® Rapid Mould Killer™ or 1 part bleach to 3 parts water. Scrub with a scouring pad and bleach solution then leave solution on the surface for 15 minutes. Wash with clean water and wipe dry. To ensure mould does not recur, it is important to eliminate the cause of the mould growth. Several applications may be necessary to remove stubborn mould blooms. Once the mould has been removed and the surface is clean, dry and free from dust, oils and grease, you can paint without an undercoat.

 

Stains

Wash surfaces with Selleys Sugar Soap and if stains persist use a specialist stain blocker to prevent the stains migrating through your topcoat and appearing in your new paint job. The Dulux PRECISION range of specialty stain blockers will have a product to suit your stain problem.

 

Spraying

If undertaking a spray project, for ease of application use a Lazy Susan. This will help you spray the object evenly on all sides, without walking in circles or handling it. To help protect surfaces from overspray, use drop sheets, tape or newspaper. Also, ensure the surface is clean and dry, free from grease, rust and dirt. If priming bare steel and iron, or an undercoat is required, use a Dulux Duramax® Undercoat (Metal, Plastic or General Purpose Undercoat). Shake the can for at least one minute before use and regularly during use. After spraying, prevent blocking by flipping the can upside down and spraying until clear gas emerges. Also wipe the front of the nozzle clean.

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