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As the weather warms up and the days get longer, there’s nothing quite like having your own outdoor reading area to unwind with a good book.
With a few simple tips and tricks, you can transform any space into an outdoor reading nook that’s both comfortable and functional. From a sprawling backyard to a quiet garden to a tiny balcony, you can easily set up a serene oasis to hide away from it all and get lost in your favorite novel.
So, grab a cool drink and get ready to be inspired to create your own comfy outdoor reading area you’ll enjoy all season long!
1. Choose the Best Location for Your Reading Nook
Look for a spot out of the way and quiet enough to provide a relaxing experience. Balconies, decks, and patios often have inviting corners to set up a cozy reading nook. Or, find a shaded area of your garden that has the potential for a welcome oasis.
If you don’t have natural shade, add a canopy or umbrella to protect you from the sun’s rays. Also, a pergola or arbor can create a beautiful place to sit and read.
Stay Cool with a Sun Shade Sail
Choose a versatile sun shade sail can fit over any reading nook, whether on your patio, deck, or out in your yard. Simply attach the hardware to a structure, stretch it out, and enjoy the cool shade with your latest read.
Or go with an Offset Hanging Patio Umbrella
Place this stylish yet functional umbrella by your favorite reading spot and lounge in shady comfort with your book. It comes in five color choices to match your aesthetics. And the base is included.
Establish Your Reading Nook with a Pergola with a Sun Shade
A pergola can create a shaded area for comfortable reading and relaxation. Install it on a patio or in a backyard. This pergola comes with a sunshade canopy included. Add chairs, plants, or lights to make it the perfect spot to unwind with a good book.
2. Select Comfortable Weather-Resistant Seating
An absolute must-have for any outdoor reading nook is comfy, supportive seating, such as a chaise lounge, hammock, or chair with soft cushions.
Remember that weather-resistant materials, such as metal, plastic, or treated wood, hold up better. And light-colored materials will reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cool as you lounge and read in warm weather.
What’s better than an Outdoor Loveseat?
This outdoor door loveseat begs you to kick off your shoes and chill with a great read! The generous dimensions, comfy cushions, and plush pillows make this seating choice the perfect relaxing addition to your reading nook.
A Rope Hammock Creates an Easy, Breezy Place to Read
Scoot into this relaxing rope hammock with your book or Reader and swing in the breeze as you turn the pages! This hammock has a convenient stand for easy set up in your reading nook.
For Novels Over 400 Pages, Sit in a Wicker Egg Chair
An egg chair just makes you want to climb in and sit nestled with a book all afternoon? This unique-shaped chair has an extra soft, supportive cushion and a durable, weather-resistant structure.
3. Go for Fun, Colorful Accessories
Add personality, color, and texture to your outdoor reading nook! Here’s where you can let your personal style and whimsy shine.
- Make it cozy with pillows and throws.
- Define the space and give your bare feet a soft place with an outdoor rug.
- Place a small side table beside you for your drinks and snacks.
- And finally, add a decorative, fun element to make you smile!
Outdoor Throw Pillows Up the Cozy Factor and Add a Pop of Color
These outdoor throw pillows come in various colors, from bold to neutral, and stylish patterns to match the aesthetics of your reading nook. And best of all, they’re made for the outdoors – fade and water resistant!
A Cool Outdoor Rug Defines the Space and Add Comfort
This outdoor rug gives your reading nook a bohemian coastal vibe. It’s made for indoor or outdoor use.
A Small Side Table Is Perfect for Placing Your Book and Snacks
This cute little side table will fit perfectly beside your chair or chaise lounge. It has a convenient lower shelf and is made from recycled plastic that’s durable and easy to clean.
A Cute Meditating Yoga Frog Can Keep You Company as You Read
Personal touches such as artwork, sculptures, or other decorative elements also give your outdoor reading nook a little whimsy and interest.
Set up this cute meditating frog to get the zen feelings flowing in your book nook. He’s nine inches tall and filled with inner peace. And, surprise, after sunset, his solar-powered hat glows!
Save for Later!
4. Set Up Outdoor Lighting
Read into the twilight hours and past sunset! Add a soft, ambient glow to your outdoor reading area or garden reading nook with string lights, lanterns, or outdoor candles. Solar-powered lights are also a great option.
Globe String Lights Give Off a Romantic Glow
These globe string lights are built for outdoor use. They’re easy to plug in and install. Plus, they give off a warm light for reading.
Solar Powered Lights Are Great for Evening Reading
Transform your outdoor umbrella into a lighted space to read and relax when the sun goes down. These lights come with a convenient remote control.
5. Add Natural Elements for Beauty and Privacy
Extras like plants, flowers, and water features can elevate your reading area into a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Place potted plants nearby or set up a small fountain in your space for visual interest and a peaceful ambiance. Give yourself some privacy with a screen, trellis, or tall potted plants as a natural barrier.
Add Tranquility with an AquaGarden Pond and Waterfall
Add a natural ambiance to your reading nook. Imagine reading while listening to the gentle sounds of falling water.
Read Uninterrupted Behind an Outdoor Privacy Screen
This screen gives you privacy and beauty. It has built-in planters and is made with attractive, durable cedar.
6. Use a Storage Box
Keep your reading oasis organized and clutter-free by adding a storage bench or ottoman to hold your books, blankets, and other essentials right where you need them (instead of the inconvenience of running back inside.)
An Outdoor Storage Deck Box Can Keep all Your Book Accessories Tidy
This cute cube will hide away all your reading supplies, pillows, and throws until you’re ready for them!
7. Enjoy Your Outdoor Reading Nook
Creating an outdoor reading oasis can be a wonderful way to enjoy your favorite books while soaking up the beauty of nature. By choosing the right location, comfortable seating, lighting, natural elements, shade, privacy, storage, accessories, weather-resistant materials, and personal touches, you can create an inviting and functional space that you’ll love spending time in.
Read and Relax Knowing You Have Mosquito Protection
Ditch the smelly sprays and read in your own mosquito-free “bubble” with the Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Perimeter System. Simply pop the sleek repellers into the ground or a potted plant and get up to 450 square feet of protection!
8. Find a Great Book for Your Outdoor Reading Area
- Check out great book rec posts like 11 Celebrity Book Club Picks Worth Reading and Best Summer Books to Read
- Find great deals on books from my curated shop on Bookshop.org.
- Try Audible Plus – thousands of titles, free 30-day trial!
- Find books via Kindle Unlimited – start your free 30-day trial!
- As a member of Amazon Prime, don’t miss Amazon First Reads for early access to Kindle books!
