Add Personal Touches
From Reading Nook Conversion · Step 9 of 9 · Video by Creating With Mimi
Showing 5:50–7:28 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
The fifth element is sprinkling personal touches. The presenter suggests adding decorative bowls, candles, or books to bring joy to the space. She places a tall, black, stacked lamp (approximately 36 inches in height) on a side table between the accent chairs and adds a white lampshade, transforming it into a statement piece. She then demonstrates how to arrange decorative pillows (one with a geometric pattern, another plain cream) on the chairs, showing the 'chop' technique for a styled look. These small details contribute to the overall flow and balance of the entryway.
Goal: Incorporate decorative accessories that reflect personality and enhance comfort.
What's used
Tools
- Tall Black Stacked Lamp
- light
- and a sculptural element (approx. 36 inches tall
- purchased from Home Goods or Home Accents).
- White Lampshade
Materials
- Decorative Throw Pillows (geometric and plain)
- color
- and pattern to accent chairs
- complementing the rug and wall art.
About the full video
This video provides a comprehensive guide on transforming an entryway into a stunning and welcoming space by focusing on five key design elements. It covers establishing a grand focal point, maximizing seating, incorporating framed wall art, adding lush greenery, and sprinkling personal touches to achieve overall balance and a cohesive thematic decor.
What's said in this clip
[Music] Sprinkle in some personal touches with decorative bowls or uh a candle, books, or some type of accessory that brings joy to your face. Are you dying? Are you dying? Will you look at this lamp? Isn't she gorgeous? She's super tall. She's about 36 in in height. So, I love that fact. And this was just a little uh was it HomeGoods? It was either HomeGoods or Homesense. Is that store Homesense? Home Accent. Oh, I'll look it up and then I'll put it in the description where this lamp came from. this oversized lamp shade. And I love I love a tall lamp. This is a moment for me. All right, these are the pillows. These are the pillows for the season. Look at the pillows with this rug. Look at the pillows with the wall art and the contrasting color. You've got the beige, the caramel, the black. Every single thing has a flow. And I will just sit this inside. Do the chop. Do the chop. I don't know why we're still chopping pillows, but it looks good. Oh gosh, look at this.
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 9 of 9: Add Decorative Touches
Add personal touches such as throw pillows, blankets, artwork, plants, or a small rug to enhance the cozy atmosphere. Arrange books on the shelves.
Every video in Reading Nook Conversion
Step 1: Clear the Closet
- 0:00–0:05 Clear Out Closet
- 0:00–0:13 Empty the Closet
- 0:00–0:03 Clear and Prepare Pantry Closet
Step 2: Inspect and Clean Walls
- 0:42–0:55 Clean and Degrease Walls
- 0:15–0:37 Clean and Dry the Wall
- 1:19–1:36 Clean Walls for Optimal Paint Adhesion
Step 3: Assess Electrical Needs
- 0:02–0:04 Plan Wall Layout and Electrical Wiring
- 5:58–8:49 Conduct an Electrical Walk-Through
- 4:23–4:40 Initial Electrical Assessment at Wall Switch
Step 4: Install Lighting
- 0:06–0:08 Install Lighting Fixtures
- 0:00–0:02 Install Ambient Recessed Ceiling Lights
- 1:34–3:25 Install Interior Electrical Fixtures
Step 5: Prepare Walls for Finishing
- 0:19–0:20 Apply Drywall Compound for Minor Repairs
- 0:00–0:12 Clean and Patch Walls
- 1:17–2:08 Remove Wall Hangings and Patch
Step 6: Paint or Wallpaper Walls
- 1:44–2:29 Apply New Wall Color
- 6:28–8:45 Paint the Walls
- 1:04–1:20 Apply Primer to Wall
Step 7: Install Shelving
- 5:57–8:16 Install Drywall Anchors
- 0:14–0:18 Measure and Mark Shelf Location
- 1:51–4:04 Install Mounting Clips
Step 8: Add Seating
- 1:31–2:35 Select and Position Main Seating
- 1:25–2:59 Incorporate Maximized Seating
- 0:56–3:00 Optimizing Space with Multi-functional Furniture
Step 9: Add Decorative Touches
- 0:20–0:26 Decorate and Final Touches
- 5:50–7:28 Add Personal Touches (this video)
- 7:11–7:29 Finishing Touches
Questions about Reading Nook Conversion
The project summary lists '4 minutes' as the estimated time, but it includes painting and electrical. Is this accurate?
The '4 minutes' refers specifically to the initial 'Clear the Closet' step, which is categorized under cleaning. The entire conversion, including wall prep, painting, electrical work, and adding furnishings, will take significantly longer, likely several hours to a full weekend, depending on your skill and the extent of modifications.
Besides basic household items, what specific tools are necessary for the electrical part of this project?
For safely installing the light fixture, you'll specifically need a wire cutter or stripper, a Phillips screwdriver, and crucially, a voltage/circuit tester to confirm power is off. Electrical tape is also listed as a material for insulating connections.
My under-stair closet walls are rough or have holes. How should I prepare them before painting or wallpapering?
After cleaning, use spackling and patching compound to fill any holes or smooth imperfections. Sand these areas once dry until smooth, then apply a coat of primer, especially if the walls are dark or stained, to ensure even paint coverage and better adhesion.
What are good strategies for making a small under-stair closet feel more spacious and functional as a reading nook?
Opt for floating shelves rather than bulky bookcases to save floor space. Choose compact, comfortable seating like a floor cushion or a small, armless chair. Using light paint colors and good lighting will also help the space feel brighter and more open.
I'm hesitant to do electrical work. Are there alternative lighting options for my reading nook?
Yes, you can use plug-in sconces, LED strip lights, or battery-operated puck lights. These options provide illumination without requiring permanent electrical installation. Ensure any plug-in lights have a convenient outlet nearby and can be safely routed.
Reading Nook Conversion
Transform an under-stair closet into a cozy and functional reading space by clearing, potentially modifying walls, adding lighting, comfortable seating, and shelving.
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