Your home is your sanctuary and even its smallest nooks can be designed to encourage moments of calm. Here are some creative ways to turn unused alcoves and spare corners into happy havens
PATIO RETREAT
The smallest of patios and urban balconies can become a stylish spot for relaxing. Approach it as you would any other space in your home and be liberal with the soft furnishings. We love the creative mix of colour and print in this diminutive courtyard designed by Atelier Akuko. Layer on lighting, include an interesting coffee table and plenty of plants and flowers.
A PLACE TO SIT
Window seats are one of our favourite design solutions for an awkward space. They’re great in a bay window to encourage you to pause and enjoy the view, or in a kitchen as informal seating. Create an intimate area beneath a tiny window using an upholstered stool or built-in bench and some cushions – this one takes up the tiniest footprint. Even better if you can add storage underneath.
SUNNY SANCTUARY
Sun rooms and conservatories are often designated as spaces for entertaining but there’s a lot to be said for setting aside a corner for enjoying some quiet time. You get all the benefits of the link to the outdoors – natural light and greenery – and can easily bring the outdoors in. Here, it’s achieved with a liberal use of bright sunny colours, stunning flowers and, of course, the fabulous cranes that preside over the space.
A CORNER FOR MORNINGS
The return of the breakfast nook is one of our favourite design trends. It’s relaxed and easy – not quite as laidback as tea and toast on the sofa but not as formal as a dining table – and perfect for leisurely mornings in pyjamas. The handsome upholstered benches shown here introduce pattern as well as comfort.
A NOOK FOR BOOKS
Reading nooks are probably the most popular use of a spare corner. They require little more than a cosy armchair and a bookshelf. We’d also add ambient lighting such as a table lamp or an adjustable task light. Choose an armchair with a generous seat cushion, like this striped number in the home of Claire Kennedy, to encourage you to curl up. And, if space allows, add a pouffe to stretch out your legs on.
CREATE A HOBBY ZONE
Make a feature of your passions. A spare corner can be cleverly adapted to showcase your hobbies and interests – we’re really taken with this bespoke built-in home bar designed by Topology Interiors for the stylish winelover.
