Creating a Reading Space
This post is sponsored by Wayfair and Porch.com.
“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.”
~C.S. Lewis
I am a binge reader.
I am that person trying to read my book while walking down the street, waiting in line at the store, or between steps while I’m cooking dinner.
I was that person on the airplane sobbing (as in giant tears smearing the pages) as I finished The House of Mirth. My apologies if you were the stranger sitting next to me.
It doesn’t matter how early I have to be up or what other matters are pressing, I dive into books head first and come up gasping for more.
And I want that for my kids.
My oldest started kindergarten this year, and I don’t want the formality of school to ruin the joy of books and learning.
It happened to me at times; the busier school was, the less I enjoyed reading. It became work rather than pleasure. So I was determined to create a magical place for my kids to enjoy reading and learning.
The spare closet in my boys’ bedroom is perfect.
And Wayfair and Porch.com’s #Back2SchoolHacks challenge was a perfect excuse. We had already done the bookcase (full source list below), and I added extra throw pillows we already had, cozy poofs and fun vinyl decals.
I know not everyone has a big empty closet like this, but really any corner will work. You just need four things:
- books
- a map (like this colorful vinyl one from Wayfair) because my children always want to know where something is happening
- something to write on (like these dry erase dots) for notes, letters, and inspiration
- cozy seating (like this pouf)
I would have loved more adorable poufs, but as budget is always a factor, I decided to makeover this affordable bean bag from Wayfair to give it a higher end look. I used this knit throw to create a simple cover. I’ll share specifics soon, I promise.
I LOVE this space. We read in it every night together before bed. I find my boys in here reading alone throughout the day.
What do you think? I, for one, wish I had a reading space like this for me. 😉
A place to get lost in the worlds that books have to offer.
I just love the coziness and imaginative quality that transform this little closet into an oasis of adventure… But that’s just me.
What would you like to transform?
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and I was compensated by Wayfair and Porch.com for this post, but as always, all opinions and obsessive love of literature are 100% mine. You can read my full disclosure policy here.
Source List:
red pouf |dry erase dots | map |bean bag |bean bag cover |crates |marquee letters (in store only) |black and white pillow | gray pillows |green pillow | fur
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Nice job on the pouf, love it Rachel!
Thank you so much, Diana!
What a brilliant MOM you are. Beautiful space for reading – yes it is so important. Who is the author of House of Mirth? Regards Betty from Ontario Canada.
You are so kind, Betty. Thank you! House of Mirth is by Edith Wharton. 🙂
Do you have a source on your site as to how to create the “crate bookcase” that you show in these pictures? I know where I can purchase the crates, but is there a specific size, and then after I’ve purchased them, how to actually construct this or any type of crate bookcase. LOVE the idea of a reading room!! Reading is SO important to me, that I literally started reading to my daughter in the womb!! That was 26 years ago, but now (I think as a result of that), she is not only an avid reader, she is also an Elementary School Teacher!!!
Thank you so much, Suzanne! I actually intend on posting a full tutorial fairly soon, but in the meantime, I can tell you that the crates linked under “sources” are the exact same size I used. I literally just stacked them all together. I hope this helps!
did you mount them to the wall and to each other? Can’t wait for tutorial on book case
disregard…just noted date on post and found your separate post. Glad I stumbled upon you via Pinterest though. See lots of things i want to read and check out.
So glad you found me, too, Deb! 🙂
Rachel, I know your life is beyond insane right now. Remember, I have 3 boys, a hubby and those parents that kept me painting and repairing all winter/spring long. I am also a small business owner. I know how it is to go to bed with jobs incomplete but your body says “stop!”
I am glad you have been blessed with all these sponsors, changes and opportunities. I know how much time it all takes, in addition to those adorable kids. Make sure you always refuel yourself (and your hubby/marriage), bc at the end of the day, that is what matters.
I do love the way your house is coming together and love these snippets of each room. Thank you.
Cyber hugs and kisses.
You are so sweet, Terri. I love having blog friends who look out for me! 🙂 Just so you know, I had a massage and haircut all by myself yesterday for my birthday, and Mr. Pax and I are going on a date tonight. 😉 xoxo
Fabulous! Enjoy your date! and a Happy, Happy Belated Birthday.
So, are you gonna blog about that? hahahahahahahaha
I just crack myself up sometimes. 🙂
hugs.
Hi!
How do you keep the book case against the wall? (For safety)
Thanks!
Kayla
Great question! I actually didn’t… I explained a little more in this post about it, but definitely do what seems safe for your space and your kiddos. You could use an L bracket from your local hardware store for sure!