The perfect reading space: 4 ingredients to a cozy window seat

Window seats are so cozy and inviting. I love finding my kiddos all curled up reading a book or soaking in the sites outside.  In fact, I love to sit and read bedtime stories here too.  I recently blogged about my girls shared room, but I hadn’t quite finished up this little corner.  You can click here to see the rest of this fun floral space, but today I am sharing the 4 ingredients to a cozy window seat.  Create your perfect reading space by checking off the list below!

Here is what the window seat looked like before.  It’s pretty bare and uninviting.

Now the textures and soft pillows allure you right over! Sudden urge for an afternoon nap?  So what are the components that make this window seat so enticing?

Number 1: Add a bench Cushion! Nobody wants to sit on a cold hard surface for long.

I always love a good striped window cushion and this particular fabric is High performance and stain proof! Pretty perfect for a children’s room or really any bench cushion for that matter! This striped cushion zips off for easy clean up.  I ordered this bench cushion custom for the exact size of my window seat.  Just add the cushion to your cart and allow 2 weeks manufacturing time for any custom size needed. CLICK HERE to  order a custom cushion.

If you have an IKEA Kallax shelf and transformed it into a bench, you can order a standard cushion with your choice of fabric HERE! The standard size also fits the West Elm Emmerson bench, making a great dining bench option.

Number 2: Add Pillows- A variety of textures and colors.

My window seat measures 88″ x 24″.  I went with 2 throw pillows on each side and a long lumbar pillow in the middle. Throw pillows not only add color, texture, and pattern, but they add so much comfort to the seat. When mixing pillows choose a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to add interest and depth.  I went with a blush pink velvet pillow for a soft texture, a black stripe pillow for a bold graphic, and a geometric lumbar for a touch of global style. See how all the pillows pull in elements from the whole space?

Number 3: Add Lighting! Task lighting is important for reading and for ascetics. 

I found this pair of brass sconces for under $80!  If you plan to read, proper lighting is key! Lighting also plays into the overall ambience of a room and definitely brings in the cozy vibe. I spray painted the stem of these sconces white to add a little individual flair.  Don’t be afraid to customize lighting to fit your space perfectly.  See my story highlights on my Instagram for full painting tutorial.

Number 4: Storage- where are you going to put all the books?

Let’s keep the reading space tidy shall we? Some reading nooks and window seats my have bookshelves intact.  Mine has storage below.  I added some woven baskets for book storage.  I love the natural texture it brings to the space while adding functionality.

Maybe you have a window seat that needs a little love or a bench in your entry way or dining area.  The same rules apply! I hope this helps you customize your own reading space and make it a cozy place to hang out.  Tag me @remingtonavenue on Instagram with your own spaces all spruced up!

Click HERE for full room tour & sources.

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