Khanyi Mlaba
Now in the throes of a nationwide lockdown, you may find yourself with more time to read than ever. We’ve rounded up some great reading nooks to inspire you to create a quiet, comfortable space where you can indulge your love of books
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1. PUT YOUR FEET UP
This reading corner decorated by Dandelion Designs ticks all the boxes – a comfortable chair, an ottoman to put your feet up on, a standing lamp to provide ample light and a side table for your tea. The fact that it’s also stylish is a bonus and practical slipcovers mean you don’t have to worry about feet on the furniture.
2.WINDOW ON THE WORLD
When they renovated their house, Claire and Justin Bodill were determined to include a window seat in their kitchen. Seat and scatter cushions make it comfortable and ideal for relaxing with a book especially when sunlight streams in through the windows.
3. TEST OF TIME
Heirlooms and family hand-me-downs have a sense of comfort and this antique rocking chair provides a reassuring contrast to the contemporary look of this house by interior architectural designer Cara Slater-Middlewick. Grass matting adds warmth underfoot and the side table is just the right distance away for drinks and snacks.
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4. MODERN MAGIC
Every reading nook needs a chair, lamp and side table, but in this case the combination is contemporary and glamorous. Designer Celeste Bushnell chose a touch-me velvet sofa that’s very inviting, a lamp that can be adjusted to the right position and sophisticated metallic tables.
5. OUTWARD BOUND
When the weather’s good, there’s nothing nicer than reading outdoors. With the simple addition of a Malawian chair and a plethora of greenery, this balcony has become a secluded haven. The only drawback is that the views might be distracting. The baskets are from Freerange Interiors and Clothing and the pots from Seed Store.
