This charming mini book nook makeover is an ideal, budget-friendly weekend project that requires only a few supplies.
This post is sponsored by Lowe’s; all opinions are my own. Affiliate links were used in the original post.
My youngest daughter had been waiting patiently for her room makeover since I completed her big sister’s room earlier this year. The challenge? She kept changing her mind about the overall look. Rather than tackling the entire room at once, I decided to start small and focus on the dormer-window alcove—the perfect spot to create a cozy reading nook.
Before the makeover the alcove was a catch-all for stuffed animals and toys. It needed organization, a clear design direction, and a few small upgrades to become inviting and functional.
We started the project by creating a simple mood board. My daughter settled on a coastal theme—soft, beachy colors and natural textures—which gave us a clear starting point for paint, textiles, and accessories.
After sampling a few shades at Lowe’s, we chose Tidewater, a light teal-blue-green from the HGTV HOME by Sherwin Williams line. It’s airy and soothing—the right balance for a small window seat area because it brightens the space without overwhelming it.
For the wall paint we used Valspar Signature Paint + Primer in an eggshell finish. It applied smoothly and provided full coverage in two coats. When painting small spaces, a quality brush for cutting in and a small roller for the flat surfaces make the job faster and neater—Purdy-style brushes are a reliable choice if you have them available.
With the paint dry, we selected accessories that emphasize texture—natural woven pieces, soft linens, and coastal colors. Window treatments were an important upgrade: the original coverings were dated, and replacing them made the whole alcove feel finished. We installed a neutral blackout roman shade that blocks light when needed but still looks clean and modern when raised. Installation was straightforward: two brackets and a clip-in shade make it a quick DIY.
Next, we added seating and soft accents. A blue-and-white throw pillow brings pattern and comfort to the window seat, while a jute pouf provides a casual ottoman for resting feet or extra seating when friends visit. Natural textures like jute and woven fabrics help reinforce the coastal vibe and keep the palette warm and inviting.
Lighting was the finishing touch. The alcove doesn’t get much evening light, so we installed a brushed-gold sconce that adds both function and a touch of elegance. A sconce is an ideal solution for small spaces because it frees up seat space and clearly defines the reading area. Choose a hard-wired installation if you want a cleaner look, or a plug-in option if you prefer an easier, less permanent solution.
A few practical tips that helped the project go smoothly:
- Plan the color and mood first—artwork or fabric swatches are great starting points.
- Choose a paint with built-in primer for faster coverage and fewer coats in small spaces.
- Prioritize functional pieces that also add texture, like woven poufs and washable throw pillows.
- Improve lighting with wall-mounted fixtures to save floor and seat space.
- Keep storage integrated—window seat benches with space for toys or books keep the nook tidy.
I loved the variety of decor and practical items I found at Lowe’s for this makeover. We also plan to add faux greenery and a few more coastal accents as we finish the rest of her room. For now, the alcove serves as a tidy, comfortable reading nook with plenty of hidden storage for stuffed animals.
SHOP THE LOOK: tidewater paint, neutral roman shade, blue-and-white throw pillow, jute pouf, and brushed-gold sconce.
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