Refresh Your Summer Reading Nook with Bloomingdale’s

Summer is all about escape. Whether you’re looking to escape the heat or your mundane day-to-day, a whole new world awaits in your summer reading list. But before you can get lost in a good book, you need the perfect spot for comfort, inspiration, and focus. So, we’re turning to our friends at Bloomingdale’s to reimagine the dark and cozy reading nook into something that’s refreshing and restorative for the summer. Read on to style your perfect setup.

Set the foundation

If there was a main character for your reading nook, it would be the accent chair. The proper throne not only sets the tone for the space, but it also dictates your go-to reading posture. If you like to curl up with your feet tucked underneath, we recommend a wide and deep chair with armrests. But if you like to lay out like you’re lounging on a poolside chaise, a recliner or a chair and ottoman may be right for you.

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Create a gallery

Sure, you can pile up your books in nooks and crannies around the house, but we’re making a case for airy bookshelves —not only for storage but also for displaying your personal taste. From color-coordinating your books to adding in vases, decor, and frames, you can curate an exhibition that’ll inspire you and your guests. Make sure to add in enough white space when styling to keep things from looking too dense and busy.

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Choose your sidekick

We love combining practicality with beauty, and there’s no better vessel for this practice than the humble side table. It’s there whenever you need it — and you inevitably will — to set down a drink, a bookmark, or maybe even the next title on your TBR list. Add some flair with airy frames that seem to float or cool statuesque marble pieces.

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Find your glow-up

Want to instantly add ambiance that sets your reading nook apart from the rest of the room? Consider a floor lamp. Similar to an area rug, overhead lighting is excellent for delineating a zone with its own mood. Plus, it’ll keep your pages illuminated, making sure you don’t strain your eyes even during cloudy days and summer showers. For that extra summery look, we recommend lamps featuring thin metal frames, glass, and light-colored lampshades.

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Add finishing touches

Coziness isn’t solely reserved for the colder months. Make sure that your summer setup still has all the plush accessories you’ll need to stay comfortable — from that perfect bolster pillow for propping up the book to the throw blanket to drape over your bare legs. Just make sure to swap out any dark and heavy textiles for bright and breathable pieces made of linen and cotton to maintain an airy and easygoing look.

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