For the first two years we lived in our current home, I just stared at the overgrown space under our deck, dreaming of a backyard reading nook the way Clark Griswold envisioned a pool outside his window in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Finally, I decided I wasn’t going to spend another summer reading indoors.
Yes, a reading nook can be outdoors! If it provides comfort, shade, and minimal distractions, it’s golden. Think beyond patios and porches. Balconies, gardens, and covered decks like mine can all create relaxing spaces for reading.
To build your outdoor reading nook, you’ll just need to add comfortable seating, good lighting, and a small table for books and drinks. Also consider weather-resistant materials and plants or privacy screens. Voila!
Might I add, take the pressure off creating an Instagram or Pinterest-worthy space. Contrary to what capitalism may tell you, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to enjoy a good fresh breath of air while you turn the pages.
Beyond landscaping, the modest budget I gave myself was $1,000.00, and I spent about $750.00.
First, I did have professional landscapers install a flagstone patio. But I will also note that my 70+ year old father with arthritis was able to tackle a similar project on his own, if you are up for a do-it-yourself challenge. Since I did not DIY the patio, you will not find a patio tutorial here.
What I did do is scour the internet for furniture and garden accessories.
Here’s the result!
When we moved into our home, there was already a (very old and ratty) rope swing hung under the deck and, from day one, I envisioned a pretty, traditional white wood swing in its place. These are pretty easy to source and inexpensive to buy, but I did have to spend some time finding the exact right size for the hooks that were already installed, so that’s the only caveat I note for you.
I’m very happy with this particular white wood swing. It seats two people well, and it was easy to put together. It reminds me of time spent with my grandmother as a child, and really, can there be anything better than that?!
I, unfortunately, decided against a luxurious, oversized reading chair/couch due to a few constraints, including space and rainwater infiltration.
Since my outdoor reading corner is under a fairly small deck, I purchased a small set of two chairs with ottomans and a little side table. This way, we could lounge to read or sit to eat.
I settled on a 5-piece wicker conversation set (similar) because it was cost-effective and weatherproof.
Onto the fun part — accessories that create ambiance!
First, I really wanted to add some colorful flowers to my space. But I did not want to maintain them.
A few tips I have for using “fakes”: do so in places that are far away from the human eye, mix them in with “real” plants or flowers, and keep them simple and imperfect.
In my research, I discovered Nearly Natural, which sells realistic faux florals. You can also buy certain options in a UV-resistant material that combats fading in the sun. I purchased two silk bougainvillea hanging baskets (also comes in geranium), and I definitely think they are high quality, realistic, and fade-resistant.
I also grabbed a few little geraniums from Nearly Natural and a handcrafted ceramic planter to decorate the tabletop.
I further knew I wanted some ambient outdoor string lights to set the mood for reading and relaxing. Before purchasing, I measured the exact lengths I needed and made sure to buy lights that were specifically for outdoor use.
Last but not least, I had a little extra space in my hosta bed, and I thought it would be so charming to add a little garden statue. I found the cutest little garden statue of a cat reading (similar).
You didn’t think I was going to stop at home decor, did you?! These posts will further inspire your outdoor reading time.
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