This Bright, Airy Nook Is Ideal for Reading Next to an Open Window
There’s no better feeling than the first spring day when it’s finally warm enough to open the windows. It makes us want to capture that fresh-air feeling in our decor, too. But you don’t have to go all out: Small tweaks like peppier colors, brighter lighting, and warm-weather scents are all you need to transform your space’s mood for the season ahead.
We asked Monica Chavez, who’s known for her clever DIYs, how she’d welcome the seasonal shift into her space. We loved her Mexican Modernism mood board so much that we started thinking about how to use it in the real world! So here’s a simple small-space refresh that’s inspired by springtime colors, textures, and scents — because scent is one of the most powerful ways to set a new tone in your space.
Inspired by Monica Chavez’s bold maximalist bedroom update, we created a spot that was similarly relaxing yet lively: a bright and breezy reading nook. Monica’s design celebrated the new season with strong patterns, rich berry hues, and personal touches that speak to her memories and heritage. This lush look was tied together with the sweet smell of the Air Wick Essential Mist® Lush Honeysuckle and Raspberry scent. The discreet diffuser evenly and continuously diffuses fragrance infused with natural essential oils, helping transform your home from winter mode to spring.
“For me, a well-designed space not only incorporates beautiful things that are meaningful, but it’s also functional,” Monica says. “It’s important to take into consideration who the space is serving and whether every square inch will bring that person value.” A quiet spring afternoon with a good book? That’s valuable indeed.
The most important part of a reading nook is a comfy setup: A deep teal armchair, jute ottoman, and vibrantly patterned pillows set you up for peak coziness. Monica loves using artisan textiles to add texture and color that tells a story. (And don’t forget your slippers for that early-spring chill.) A low-hanging pendant light is a fresh spin on a reading lamp, and we love how this one plays up the color of the chair.
Layered rugs help the space feel extra warm and inviting. They’re also a great budget trick: By using a larger neutral rug as a base, you can buy a smaller (cheaper) patterned rug, adding visual interest without blowing your budget. A couple of final flourishes — like some nature-inspired wall hangings and a (steady, continual) burst of freshness from the Air Wick Essential Mist® Lush Honeysuckle and Raspberry scent — and you’re ready to turn off your phone and get lost in a good story.