One of the simple pleasures of log cabin living is tucking into a good book or watching an episode of your favorite show in a cozy spot. A reading nook provides a private little oasis where you can rest and relax.

A classic “nook” is a small corner, recess, or alcove in the home that sits off a main living space—usually the great room, kitchen, or dining room.

If you’re building a log cabin home from the ground up, it’s the perfect time to think about incorporating features like a reading nook, loft, or wraparound deck. Here are some essential elements you’ll want your log cabin reading nook to include for a warm, inviting space.

1: Good lighting

Ideally, your reading nook will be near a large window that floods the space with natural light. But this shouldn’t stop you from making good use of an underused area like a loft, or even the space under the stairs. Here are some creative ways to brighten up a dark space:

• Use mirrors to reflect light.
• Choose light-colored furnishings and textiles.
• Install a lighting fixture with multiple bulbs to spread light around.
• Choose a light-colored area rug for the space.
• Cast light on walls and ceilings.
• Go with simple, non-distracting décor to keep the space uncluttered.

2: Cozy furnishings

Make your reading nook an inviting sanctuary with soft furnishings and textiles. A pair of plush armchairs can serve as the centerpiece, with a small side table and lamp in between.

Add a few oversized pillows and a soft throw for rainy days and chilly nights. If you have room to spare, consider adding a small bookshelf to make the space feel complete.

3: Fire element

If your dream is to have a reading nook next to a crackling fire, the design phase of your home-building project is the perfect time to think about this kind of addition.

If building a custom nook with a fireplace isn’t in the cards, there are lots of alternatives to a traditional built-in fireplace, such as a wood-burning stove or freestanding electric fireplace (modern options look surprisingly realistic).

Even a display of flameless electric candles can provide a warm glow and the classic flicker of a fire.

4: Reading-themed décor

Incorporate a few book-themed decorations to add a touch of whimsy to your reading nook. For example, try adding a wall hanging with a quote from your favorite author. Or invest in an end table designed to resemble a stack of books.

There are lots of creative, affordable reading nook décor options that can help you put the finishing touches on the space. Even simple additions like throw pillows with fun phrases such as “Book Worm” or “Born to Read” can help define the space.

If you don’t want to stray too far from the log cabin aesthetic, search for items that match your rustic décor, such as a pair of bear-themed bookends.

5: Coffee/tea station

Take your reading nook to the next level by setting up a K-cup coffee and tea station right in the space.

K-cup coffee makers are mainstays in offices and hotels, but homeowners love them, too. Super convenient and portable, these little machines brew individual cups of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and other beverages in a flash, without leaving a mess behind.

K-cup machines have a small footprint, so all you need is an end table to set up your beverage station. Better yet, use a compact cart on wheels stocked with mugs, cream and sugar, napkins, and any other goodies you might want to reach for during marathon reading sessions.

Build Your Log Cabin with eLoghomes

We hope these reading nook ideas have inspired you. When you’re ready to build a log home of your own with a cozy reading nook, eLoghomes is here to help. Our log home kits come with everything your builder or general contractor needs to start building your home.

Our kits are specifically designed to help streamline the home-building process, so you can get into your new log home sooner. Search our catalog of more than 200 log home models to find your perfect log cabin home, then get in touch with our team to get started on your project!