In a digital age, the way we read has changed dramatically. Screens offer speed, convenience, and endless access, while printed pages offer something slower and more tactile. Neither is better than the other. What matters is how we choose to engage with what we read. I enjoy both, but this reflection is for those who still find comfort in paper.
Imagine an autumn afternoon, the kind where October feels exactly right. You step into a small café down the street. People sit quietly in armchairs, cups of coffee or tea warming their hands, absorbed in books, magazines, or newspapers. The air carries hints of cinnamon and pumpkin pie. You recognize the scent immediately, just as you notice the latest issue of *insert name of magazine you like* displayed on the wall, waiting to be picked up. If you didn’t bring your own reading material and prefer paper over screens, this feels like the right place to be.
That feeling of slowness and intention is what inspired my latest project.
After creating watercolor bookmarks for friends, I wanted to explore something new while staying within the same universe of reading. Inspired by a vintage German object I came across online, I designed a wooden holder for newspapers and magazines. It’s a simple object, but one meant to elevate the experience of reading on paper.
When I shared the idea, a friend offered leftover wood from his own projects, allowing me to create these pieces without producing waste. Working with reclaimed materials added another layer of meaning to the process, and the result felt both satisfying and aligned with the spirit of the object itself. This experience has encouraged me to continue exploring projects in this direction.
If this idea resonates with you, whether for your own space or as a gift, feel free to reach out. I’m also open to collaborations with cafés or boutiques interested in featuring these wooden reading holders. Images of the finished pieces are shared below.
For those who still enjoy turning pages and taking their time, this project is a small tribute to that habit.
Happy reading 🙂
