A few weeks ago, I had a delightful chat with my friend Emma, who recently transformed her orangery into a charming personal library. Over a steaming cup of Earl Grey, she walked me through her journey of crafting the ultimate reading nook. As she spoke, I realised that with a bit of creativity and planning, anyone could create their own sanctuary of stories amidst the lush greenery of an orangery. Here’s how our conversation went and what I gleaned from her experience.
The Vision: Combining Nature with Nurture
Emma began by explaining the initial vision she had for her orangery. She wanted a space that not only housed her beloved books but also allowed her to enjoy the natural beauty outside. “The idea was to create a seamless blend between my indoor and outdoor worlds,” she said, gesturing towards the large glass windows that offered a panoramic view of her garden.
Her advice to anyone starting this journey is to spend some time in the orangery at different times of the day. Notice how the light changes, where the shadows fall, and which corners feel the most inviting. This understanding of the natural light and ambiance is crucial in planning the layout of your reading nook.
Furniture: Comfort Meets Functionality
Next, Emma took me through her furniture selection process. She emphasised the importance of balancing comfort and practicality. “You’ll be spending a lot of time here, so your seating needs to be cosy but supportive,” she noted.
She chose a plush armchair with a matching footstool, ensuring it was positioned to catch the morning sun. A small side table was placed within arm’s reach, perfect for a cup of tea or a stack of books. For anyone replicating this, she suggests considering the scale of the furniture relative to the space. You don’t want to overcrowd the room, but ensure there’s enough storage for your book collection.
Bookshelves: Showcase and Storage
Emma’s approach to bookshelves was both aesthetic and functional. She opted for custom-built shelving that followed the curve of the orangery’s walls. “I wanted the shelves to echo the shape of the room, making the most of the space without overwhelming it,” she explained.
For those looking to create their own book haven, consider the materials and finishes that complement the orangery’s design. Emma chose a light wood that matched the natural tones of her garden and the orangery’s structure. She also incorporated a few glass-fronted cabinets to protect her rare editions while allowing them to be on display.
The Personal Touch: Decor and Details
Emma’s reading nook wasn’t just about books and furniture; it was the personal touches that truly brought the space to life. “I wanted this area to reflect my personality and passions,” she said, showing me the eclectic mix of artwork and trinkets she’d collected over the years.
She suggested adding personal items like framed family photos, travel souvenirs, or artwork that inspires you. These elements not only add character but can evoke memories and feelings that enhance your reading experience. Emma also mentioned the importance of textiles, such as cushions and throws, to add warmth and texture to the space.
Lighting: Setting the Mood
While natural light was a key feature of Emma’s orangery, she also highlighted the importance of supplementary lighting for evening reading sessions. “I chose adjustable floor lamps and wall sconces that provide soft, diffused light,” she said.
For anyone creating their own reading nook, Emma advises selecting lighting fixtures that offer both functionality and style. Consider dimmable options to adjust the brightness according to your needs and the time of day.
Bringing the Outside In: Plant Life
Finally, Emma spoke about integrating plants into her reading nook. “The orangery is already a celebration of nature, so it made sense to include some greenery indoors,” she explained. She chose a variety of indoor plants that thrive in the orangery’s climate, such as ferns and succulents.
For those looking to replicate this, think about the maintenance level you’re comfortable with and select plants accordingly. Emma also pointed out that plants can help improve air quality, making your reading environment even more pleasant.
As our conversation wound down, I was struck by how Emma’s reading nook perfectly encapsulated her personality and passions. By blending comfort, functionality, and personal flair, she created a space that was uniquely hers. For anyone looking to transform their orangery, the key is to let your personal taste guide you, while considering the natural beauty and functionality of the space. Whether it’s a place to escape, reflect, or simply enjoy a good book, your reading nook can be a sanctuary of your own making.
