Morning Nook Tips for Sleepyheads to Get-Up-and-Goers
Whether you whack the snooze button or spring out of bed, these ideas can help you create a refreshing space that helps you on your way
Start your morning on the right note by crafting a space that lifts your spirits and fills you with vitality for the day ahead. Whether you want to be energized to get moving, or you crave a gentler awakening, the first step is to set up a special corner that supports your purpose. Morning sunshine is the key ingredient, so search all around your house to find the spot with the best light during the early hours. While it's natural to gravitate to the kitchen in the morning, if another room has better morning light, you may consider setting up a sitting area there as well.
Soak in the light of lengthening days with a cozy corner or an entire room. From sunporches and breakfast nooks to window seats and more, let your imagination be sparked by these sun-kissed spaces.
Soak in the light of lengthening days with a cozy corner or an entire room. From sunporches and breakfast nooks to window seats and more, let your imagination be sparked by these sun-kissed spaces.
A private oasis. If your bedroom is positioned well to receive early-morning light, take advantage by positioning a window seat or an armchair where you can soak in the rays.
Use all of the senses to bring your space to life. Freshly cut branches, green plants, soft cushions and blankets, and nubby rugs will add to the sensory delights of your special morning space. Do whatever you must to create a peaceful atmosphere — if you lack a view, bring in a landscape painting; if the street outside is noisy, add a softly gurgling fountain.
See more on how to engage the five senses in decorating
See more on how to engage the five senses in decorating
If You Crave an Energizing Space That Will Lift Your Mood
If your morning spot of choice is the kitchen, it is especially important to commit to clearing away dirty dishes and clutter the night before, so you can wake to a fresh space. Set up your coffee or tea station and place cut flowers on the table, and you will feel ready to tackle the day.
If your morning spot of choice is the kitchen, it is especially important to commit to clearing away dirty dishes and clutter the night before, so you can wake to a fresh space. Set up your coffee or tea station and place cut flowers on the table, and you will feel ready to tackle the day.
Take it outside. Nothing invigorates like being outdoors, so if getting charged up for your day is the goal, consider setting up a morning zone in your backyard. A few comfortable chairs and a place to set your mug are all you really need, but be sure to also have a cozy throw on hand to warm your shoulders on chilly mornings.
Premier Prints Suzani Slub, Yellow/White
Colors to consider: When you want to wake up a room, turn to the colors of a bright, sunny day. Shades of sky blue, fresh white, sunshine yellow and the green of tender spring plants are foolproof in any combination.
If you are unsure where to start, consider choosing one fabulous fabric, like the yellow suzani shown here, and have pillows or seat cushions made with it. The rest of the room should fall into place easily once you have a focal point.
If you are unsure where to start, consider choosing one fabulous fabric, like the yellow suzani shown here, and have pillows or seat cushions made with it. The rest of the room should fall into place easily once you have a focal point.
If You Crave a Cozy Spot for Sipping Coffee, Reading or Chatting
If mornings mean family time to you, focus on pulling together a spot in a sunny window that can accommodate the whole brood. Built-in bench seats are a great way to go, because they often fit more than regular chairs. Take a cue from the fresh, colorful space shown here and use papered walls and a pendant light to define your seating area.
If mornings mean family time to you, focus on pulling together a spot in a sunny window that can accommodate the whole brood. Built-in bench seats are a great way to go, because they often fit more than regular chairs. Take a cue from the fresh, colorful space shown here and use papered walls and a pendant light to define your seating area.
Spruce up your sunporch. If you have a sunporch (also called a three-season room), look for ways to freshen it up to make it more appealing to use every day. Painting the floors and ceiling pale hues will help amplify the light, and comfortable furniture is a must. If your porch furniture has seen better days, consider reviving it with a coat of paint and restuffing the seat cushions.
When you want to add on: If renovation plans are on the horizon, consider ways of working the light to your advantage. Add a skylight, widen a window or swap a regular door for a French door or sliding glass doors, and you may soon find yourself with a new favorite spot for your morning coffee.
Tell us: What kind of start do you crave in the morning — slow and peaceful, energizing or social?
Tell us: What kind of start do you crave in the morning — slow and peaceful, energizing or social?
Room for one. Look for a small corner of your home, one with just enough space for one perfect chair — that way you are sure to be left to your own devices. If you live in a warm climate, a spot on a covered porch or patio can be a wonderful choice, allowing you to get a bit of fresh air as you sip your coffee or tea.