A window seat or reading nook can transform a little-used corner of your home into an inviting place to relax.
Whether you have a sunny window, an awkward alcove or a spare bedroom wall, there are plenty of ways to create a cosy retreat. Adding storage, bookshelves or a day bed can make the space even more useful.
Get inspiration from these clever window seats and reading nooks created by Bunnings Workshop community members.
1. Turn an unused window nook into a seat
Even a small recess can become a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the sunshine. Workshop member @lifestylebymari transformed an unused space into a window nook with seat and storage using MDF panels. A hinged lid provides concealed storage beneath the seat, while foam and fabric create a comfortable cushion.
2. Add drawers beneath your window seat
Drawers can make frequently used items easier to access than a lift-up seat, particularly when cushions are left in place. Workshop member @theDIYedit transformed an awkward bedroom alcove with a custom-built window seat with storage. Flat-pack drawer units were incorporated into a framed base, with an open storage compartment filling the remaining space.
3. Use kitchen cabinets for a built-in look
Flat-pack kitchen cabinetry can provide a useful starting point for a window bench. Community member @RenovisionAU used Kaboodle cabinets, MDF and a custom cushion to create a window bench using kitchen cabinets. Selecting cabinet sizes to suit the space helped achieve the appearance of custom joinery, while cupboards underneath provide useful storage.
4. Incorporate a window seat into a larger room makeover
A window seat can become an architectural feature rather than simply an extra piece of furniture. Workshop member @BBirdie completely transformed a dark and dated entrance by removing old cabinetry and creating a coastal window seat and fireplace zone. The seat is surrounded by detailed timber mouldings, VJ panelling and fireplace, and allowed more natural light into the space.
5. Curve the seat to complement the room
Your window seat does not have to be a simple rectangular box. Curves can help it suit the architecture of the room. First-time homeowners Hannah and Phillip created a curved bedroom window seat as part of their award-winning D.I.Y. project that referenced their home's Art Deco character. They built a frame before wrapping the curved front in bent plywood and fluted lining boards, then finished the seat in a soft green.
6. Surround your reading nook with books
For keen readers, incorporating bookshelves directly around the seat keeps favourite titles within easy reach and helps turn a nook into a real home library. Workshop member @madsstar created a built-in library nook with a pull-out guest bed in a spare room that needed to serve as a home office and guest bedroom. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases frame the window and day bed, while drawers provide storage underneath.
7. Create a dedicated reading nook for kids
Furniture and shelving can be used to define an area within an existing kids bedroom to create a reading nook. @TheSparrowHome incorporated a reading nook into a kids bedroom makeover using Flexi Storage cube units and picture shelves. The project made good use of vertical wall space, leaving more floor area for play.
8. Use a day bed for a flexible reading space
A day bed can provide a generous spot for reading while doubling as seating or occasional guest accommodation. @Allykj repurposed a Queen bed frame as a daybed, using the original bedhead as the backrest and cutting the foot of the bed in half to create two arms. The end result provides a comfy spot to put your feet up.
9. Dedicate an entire room to reading
If space allows, you can take the reading-nook idea even further and create your own home library. Community member @DannoAbbott built a home library with custom floor-to-ceiling bookcases that maximise wall storage. Picture lights were installed above the shelves.
10. Take your reading nook outdoors
A reading space does not have to be inside your home. Workshop member @NJ_at_Home combined seating and book storage for a street library and reading bench. The weather-protected library is attached to one end of the timber bench, allowing neighbours to choose a book and sit down to read it.
More inspiration for reading spaces
Experienced member @diy_hausdesigns built a Montessori-inspired kids bookshelf from plywood, carefully rounding and sanding the edges to make the furniture child-friendly.
Get more inspiration from these Bunnings Workshop collections:
