Convert the empty corners of your home into something cozy and useful

by Mark Bennett

March 03, 2024

Convert the empty corners of your home into something cozy and useful
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Most homes have unfurnished hidden and/or neglected nooks or corners which could be easily upgraded to become attractive and functional. One idea is to convert one these areas into a den (for the kids to play in, for example). Another idea is to turn it into a reading nook. Well, there are, in fact, loads of ways to take advantage of these empty spaces - read on to find out more:

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Space for your passions

Space for your passions

sliz.bookshelf/Instagram

Do you need a refuge to escape from the "outside" world? Well, how about converting an empty nook into something that aligns with one of your passions? Here's an example of a reading nook put together by a book-lover.

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Reading nooks

Reading nooks

@lauragraziano.writer/Instagram

Staying with reading nooks, how about putting one on the corner of the staircase? Or in the nook under the stairs? a comfortable armchair in the corner and some custom-built shelves (or even a bookcase) is all you need to put together this little reading refuge.

A comfortable seat

A comfortable seat

@livingbylane/Instagram

Since it's all about comfort, we must always consider how much space there is to determine what type of furniture we can use. Is there room for an armchair, a sofa or a chaise longue? Whatever the result, the seating must be comfortable, well-positioned and inviting!

Fill the niches

Fill the niches

@sarahkdesignslondon/instagram

Whether you call it a "reading nook" or "a reading niche", with a bit of DIYing (and perhaps a pallet or two), you can easily put together a cozy refuge for yourself.

@sarahkdesignslondon/instagram

@sarahkdesignslondon/instagram

Ideally, you should set up your reading nook near a window so you can enjoy all the benefits of having natural light streaming into your "hideaway".

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Looking at your home with new eyes

Looking at your home with new eyes

@phinneyridgecabinetcompany/Instagram

Of course, you're not limited to just setting up a reading nook. You can set up a "custom built" music corner (with your speakers, records and turn-table) or a technology nook (with your PC, laptop and printer), for example.

Almost any window can become a bay window

Almost any window can become a bay window

@ilariafatone/Instagram

A bay (or bow) window is a popular feature in Anglo-Saxon architecture, where the windows of a room are curved and protrude from the line of the facade, creating more space. Usually furnished with seats and even tables, bay windows are a way to feel closer to nature.

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@arcfly_ft/Instagram

@arcfly_ft/Instagram

If you have a large window, you could take advantage of putting up a wide internal windowsill, and without having to undertake a major building project.

Under the stairs

Under the stairs

@dwellmagazine/Instagram

Another empty space that can easily be turned into a reading/relaxation nook is the void under the flight of stairs. If it's big enough, you can create a cozy little spot here!

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@haleofahouse/Instagram

@haleofahouse/Instagram

Just a few shelves and some cushions and your hideaway will be ready for use!

The attic

The attic

@joceywest/Instagram

Even the attic could become much more than a dusty and forgotten void: most attics are big enough to accomodate all of your "creature comforts"!

Do you need a hideaway at home?

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