Cozy book room
25 Cozy Reading Nook Ideas for Small Spaces 2022
Though a true book lover could curl up just about anywhere for hours on end, there's a reason why certain spots—a hammock between two trees or a plush armchair beside the fire, for example—are ripe for reading. These areas are comfortable and feel special—like they were put on this earth just for turning pages.
If your home lacks a spot that evokes those sorts of feelings, don't despair. Creating a cozy reading nook in your bedroom, living room, or even an unused corner of your attic is easy.
Sure, you can go the extravagant route, hiring a contractor to construct a built-in bench under the stairs or totally transform a closet into your own personal library. But some of the most inspiring reading corners are actually way less fussy. For toddlers and kids, consider a simple floor cushion under a canopy, a fluffy blanket-lined tent, or even a DIY hammock. For adults, a sophisticated leather armchair styled with easy-to-grow indoor plants or a colorful window seat do just the trick.
No matter which reading nook route you go, making it a comfortable place doesn't take much, either. Style your space with plenty of soft, plush textiles—think throw pillows and fuzzy or knit blankets. Mood lighting—scented candles, task lights, or string lights—also make the private space feel warm. And, if you're feeling up to it a little more styling, don't be shy about adding art prints, and anything else that makes you feel at home.
So what are you waiting for? Grab the next book on your list, a cup of tea, and consider yourself warned: If you couldn't put that novel down before, good luck now.
Less Than Perfect Life of Bliss
1 of 25
Use a Closet
If you're lucky enough to have a spare closet, make it a haven for reading—not a place to stash junk. If you make clever use of the space, you might even be able to fit in a comfortable built-in bench with extra storage space below.
See more at Less Than Perfect Life of Bliss.
@kajal8212
2 of 25
Add a Pop of Color
Colorful trim—in a cheerful shade like bright blue—makes a window seat stand out as a unique area of the home ripe for reading.
See more at Kajal8212.
Sarah Joy Blog
3 of 25
Transform Extra Space
If your home has an odd little nook, don't let that space go to waste. This area, which boasts a comfortable bench, shiplap walls, and even a light fixture, looks like it was meant to be there all along.
See more at Sarah Joy Blog.
@hannasanglar
4 of 25
Build an Enchanting Outdoor Hideaway
Who ever said your reading nook has to be indoors? Both adults and kids will fall in love with a dreamy hideaway tucked under a bountiful bush.
See more at hannasanglar.
@thewoodentoolbox
5 of 25
Construct a Built-In Bench
What was once wasted space is now a wide daybed-sized built-in book nook that lifts up to reveal tons of hidden storage space for extra linens, blankets, pillows, and more.
See more at The Wooden Toolbox.
@bibliovino
6 of 25
Make Your Reading Nook Portable
For small spaces, tuck your favorite books into a utility cart, like this one from the IKEA.
This way, you can turn any old lounger, chair, or bed into your personal reading corner.
See more at bibliovino.
@lessthingsbigdreams
7 of 25
Add a Curtain to the Closet Door
If you're turning a closet into a place to get lost in your favorite novel, make the space extra cozy by adding a curtain to the door. This allows light to flow in, but still lets you feel tucked away from the rest of the world.
See more at Less Things Big Dreams.
@s.u.s.a.p
8 of 25
Bring in Tons of Textiles
Give curling up with a good book a whole new meaning by styling your reading corner with comfortable textured throws and pillows.
See more at s.u.s.a.p.
@mimirella_aus_liebe
9 of 25
Use Empty Wall Space
You don't have to have a corner or a nook to fashion a spot for reading. An empty bedroom wall—like space between the closet and dresser, for example—can feel just as private. To make the area seem like a designated spot, add shelves, a floor cushion, pillows and some fun accents, like a wall decal and string lights.
See more at mimirella_aus_liebe.
@love_forhomedecor
10 of 25
Capitalize on a Sun-Drenched Corner
If you're working with a small space, try squeezing a comfortable chair in the corner, then flanking it with a few items—plants and a side table for a cup of tea, for example—to help set the scene.
See more at love_forhomedecor.
@ chloeuberkid
11 of 25
Enhance the Playroom
Encourage toddlers and kids to pick up a book during playtime by adding a few bookshelves and a special chair to their play space. We love the look and feel of this rattan armchair draped in faux sheepskin.
See more at chloeuberkid.
@my.little.victorian.house
12 of 25
Drape Twinkle Lights Under the Stairs
Unused space under the stairs is one of the best areas for a built-in reading nook. In this particular space, the dark paint and the twinkling string lights really set the right vibe for a reading marathon.
See more at my.little.victorian.house.
@halliereads_
13 of 25
Use a Bean Bag
Don't have the time or the budget for built-ins? With little more than a bean bag and a few pillows, you can easily create a reading corner next to your bookshelf.
See more at halliereads_.
@silkreads
14 of 25
Add Plenty of Plants
Not sure how to decorate your reading nook? Fill the space with plenty of organic decor, like a rubber tree, succulents, or hanging plants that—quite literally—breathe life into the room.
See more at silkreads.
@gznbalik
15 of 25
Let Your Personality Shine With Photos
Reading nooks don't have to be streamlined and sophisticated. This one is filled with all kinds of knick-knacks that speak to the reader's personality, but feels just as relaxing as any other space.
See more at gznbalik.
@our_little_home2020
16 of 25
Add Soft Lighting
Whether decorating a reading nook for kids or adults, a little warm lighting goes a long way to make the area feel nice and relaxing.
Here, string lights surround the chair, plus adorn a piece of wall art. The result? A magical glow for story time when the overheads are off.
See more at our_little_home2020.
@iris_inspiredinteriors
17 of 25
Carve Out a Space in the Bedroom
If you like to read in the bedroom, but prefer to reserve your bed for sleeping, add a plush armchair to the opposite side of the room. Here, a clever paint job helps designate the area as its own.
See more at iris_inspiredinteriors.
@everydaygracedesigns
18 of 25
Hang a Swing
Chances are you don't have many (any?) swings inside the house, which makes this area extra desirable—especially for kids who need a little incentive to crack open a book.
See more at Everyday Grace Designs.
A Beautiful Mess
19 of 25
DIY a Hammock
Alternatively, you can DIY a hammock seat, so you can feel the joy of sitting in one even on days when the rain is pouring down.
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess.
@nayeli.tirado
20 of 25
Use a Canopy
Use a canopy typically reserved for beds to cordon off an area of the bedroom or living room—it's an especially great decorating idea for small spaces, like a studio apartment.
See more at nayeli.tirado.
@sophia.at.home
21 of 25
Set It Up Fireside
Name a better pair than a roaring fire and a book you want to rip right through. We'll wait...
See more at sophia.at.home.
@thehalcyondaysofsummer
22 of 25
Create a Wall of Books
This little bench, completely surrounded by beloved tomes, proves that you can keep all of your favorites close at hand without making your reading corner look messy.
See more at The Halcyon Days of Summer.
@wilsonaesthetic_
23 of 25
Opt for a Small Chair
While a big, plush armchair is ideal for lounging, this boho corner shows you can make a stylish and comfortable reading nook even if you're working with limited space.
Just tuck a smaller, more decorative chair as far back into the corner as you can, add some task lighting, and bring the whole thing together with a few cohesive accent pieces. This, of course, works well for kids, too.
See more at wilsonaesthetic_.
@a.bookish.rainbow.sanctuary
24 of 25
Color Coordinate
To really make your reading nook stand out, lean into a rainbow theme. Pick an armchair in a vivid shade like yellow, add a colorful shag rug, and—of course—arrange your books in ROYGBIV fashion.
See more at a.bookish.rainbow.sanctuary.
@themoderncolonial
25 of 25
Build a Fluffy Fortress
It's no secret kids love forts, so why not make their personal reading corner extra fun by constructing a teepee that not only provides privacy for quiet time, but also encourages imaginative play in between reading sessions.
See more at The Modern Colonial.
37 Delightfully Cozy Book Nook Ideas To Inspire A Reading Retreat
There is something idyllic about curling up in a cozy book nook with a good read and a cup of your favorite hot beverage, transporting you to another place and time.
Books can also be found in a home library complete with a rolling ladder, yet are less practical to easily integrate into your home — but are no less dreamy!
When creating a cozy book nook for your own home, there are many places where they can be integrated. A “reading nook” is typically a small-sized pocket carved out from a wall where one can make themselves feel comfortable and cozy up with a good book. For a DIY approach, try using some comfortable, plush cushions. These can be placed in a cozy corner with some bookshelves for convenient access to your book collection. Or a comfy chair placed in a location of your choice with a lamp or wall sconce for light.
There are limitless possibilities for adding a cozy book nook to your home. Get inspired by some of the creative ideas that we have gathered for you below. Underneath each of the images are further details and links to the designers of each project. Be sure to pin your favorites onto Pinterest and while you are there, be sure to give us a follow: https://www.
pinterest.com/onekindesign/
Tell Us: Which one of these cozy book nook ideas do you find most inspiring and why in the Comments below!
1. A Reading Corner. This cozy kids’ reading nook at a mountain home in Vail, Colorado offers plenty of natural light. The cushions are replicas of the seating system called Mah Jong by Roche Bobois. They were custom designed and fabricated with an approximate price of $700 each. In a high-traffic area, you should use an indoor/outdoor fabric. (via Balance Point Construction)
2. Kids Bedroom Nook. This cozy reading nook in a girl’s bedroom features open shelving and built-in drawers. The perfect spot to curl up and read a book or chat with friends on the phone! The gorgeous chandelier is from Ferguson. (via Rudloff Custom Builders)
3. Farmhouse Style Nook. The wall paint is a custom blend of multiple Benjamin Moore colors. See the rest of this home tour designed by one of our favorite architects: Gorgeous farmhouse style on Lake Minnetonka with nautical accents.
(via Alexander Design Group)
4. Coastal Reading Nook. This inviting window seat features built-in bookshelves decorated with coastal-inspired decor and books. (via Bo Massey)
5. Under Stairs Nook. Utilize the dead space underneath your staircase for a built-in bench with a comfortable cushion and accent pillows. Integrate some bookshelves to store some of your favorite book collections along with some personalized accessories. (via Lonni Paul Design)
6. A Nook With A Nautical Vibe. A compact built-in bench features comfortable cushions for lounging and curling up with a good book. Shelves on either side along with storage underneath provide plenty of space for extra books. Wall sconces provide the perfect task lighting. (via Chairma Design Group)
7. A Cozy Nook To Read A Book. An unused closet underneath the staircase was reimagined to become an inviting space to curl up with your favorite novel.
(via Align Design)
8. A Rustic Private Nook. A built-in bench is tucked in behind a stone-clad wall to feel like the ultimate cozy reading retreat. A plush cushion and decorative pillows offer the ultimate comfort. Rows of books line the bookshelves for ease of access. (via Hage Homes)
9. A Monochromatic Color Scheme. In this space, varying shades of blue make this space feel peaceful and relaxing. (via e v o l v e | RESIDENTIAL)
10. A Chic Home Office Nook. This idyllic home office comes with all the perks, including a relaxing spot to take a break… or a nap! A comfortable sofa is surrounded by built-in cabinetry. The cabinetry paint color is Sandy Ridge SW 7535 – Sherwin-Williams. (via Chairma Design Group)
11. Built-in Storage With Pops of Color. Part of a Southern Living idea house located on Daniel Island, this cozy space offers a couple of options for reading.
A comfortable lounge chair and small built-in window seats on either side of a bookshelf. Notice the bookcase under the window seat? So many convenient options for storing a vast book collection! (via Margaret Donaldson Interiors)
12. An Inviting Window Seat. This staircase landing maximizes all available space, featuring a cozy window bench with integrated storage and open bookshelves. (via CK Architects)
13. Boys Room Reading Nook. This compact bedroom was created for a dinosaur-obsessed 5-year-old. Built-in storage made this cozy reading nook multi-functional. High-performance (durable and scrubbable) fabrics were used for the cushions and pillows. Shades of blue in the wallpaper and pillows are mixed with playful pops of red. (via Curated Nest Interiors)
14. Window Seat With A View. A summer retreat in Chilmark, Massachusetts features this coastal-style window nook in a relaxed, casual living room.
Built-ins on either side of the nook are decorated with personalized accessories for added charm. Be sure to add articulating sconces for reading lights, similar can be found at Rejuvenation. (via ROAM Architecture)
15. Kids Reading Corner. This cozy little book nook at the top of the stairs was created for the kids to read comics, and books and dream the day away! See the rest of this fabulous home here: A dreamy classic lake house with remarkable views of Christmas Lake. (via Mark D. Williams Custom Homes)
16. Spacious Window Seat. This cozy window nook is large enough to curl up with a good book or take a nap. Bookshelves are integrated on either side to create an inviting atmosphere with function. Reading lights are ideal for nighttime reading. (via Vincent Longo Custom Builders)
17. Under the Stairs. A townhouse in Brooklyn, New York features this cozy nook. This clever use of space under the stairs is perfect for lounging, reading and even taking a nap with some plush cushions! (via Frederick Tang Architecture)
18.
Family Room Nook. A custom built-in sofa was designed for easy game playing, easy lounging, easy game storage… and of course, easy book reading! (via Regan Baker Design)
19. Compact Staircase Nook. This cozy reading nook built under the staircase is part of a remodel project of a home built in 1938 in the Oaks, a historic Los Angeles neighborhood. (via JWT Associates)
20. Hidden Reading Nook. Tucked into a corner of the living room of an Orcas Island, Washington home, this reading nook provides additional seating and storage. The wall paneling of the cozy reading nook is from Pioneer Millworks. The species is mixed softwoods, the grade is prairie, and it is unfinished. See the rest of this spectacular home here: Modern rustic retreat designed to feel like a summer camp on Orcas Island. (via NB Design Group)
21. Attic Book Nook. A Lake Minnetonka family retreat features this custom-built nook with an abundance of natural light.
A plush cushion and accent pillows provide a comfortable atmosphere. Barn Lights Electric has similar wall sconces. (via Kathryn Johnson Interiors)
22. Kid’s Window Nook. A Lake Michigan cottage features this cozy children’s reading nook. The wall paint color is a Graham paint that is matched to Benjamin Moore Hepplewhite Ivory #HC-36. (via AMDG Architects)
23. Reading Space. A reading nook with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves encircling the space. Plush cushions on the floor provide a comfortable spot for lounging, reading, and napping. (via DEFT.SPACE)
24. Scandinavian Reading Nook. This adorable kid’s nook features a hanging swing. The hanging chair is the Coco Hanging Chair from Byron Bay Hanging Chairs. A similar rattan chair can be found here. A plush throw pillow and a small bookshelf complete the look. (via Hide & Sleep Interior Design)
25. Bedroom Window Nook. A cozy window seat in the bedroom frames Northern California seaside views.
A restful spot at the end of the day to stare out the window and watch the sunset, daydream and curl up with a good book. (via Malcolm Davis Architecture)
26. Bay Window Nook. An idyllic spot to curl up with a good read. The layers of cozy textures will keep you warm on a cold winter’s day. This charming home is in England. (via Reddit)
27. Wood-Framed Nook. This cabin-inspired window nook features a cozy daybed for reading and napping. This design would work well in an office, guest bedroom, living room, or hallway. The modern three-dimensional Moravian star fixture is the perfect accent for this inviting space. (via Cloth & Kind)
28. Mountain Home Window Nook. This welcoming window nook can be found in a transitional mountain home in Truckee, California. (via The SANDBOX Studio)
29. Relaxing Window Seat With A View. A small window seat is integrated next to a bookshelf for an intimate place to curl up with a good read.
(via Marcy Black Simpson, architectural designs by Richard Holman)
30. Dream Balcony/Reading Nook. This design is super unique and possibly impractical for most to achieve this look due to the elements. A sunroom would help to protect the books and give the same indoor/outdoor vibe. (via Reddit)
31. A Cozy Reading Corner. This look can be achieved in any corner of your home, preferably near a window for natural light and a view. All you need is some simple Ikea bookshelves and a relaxing chair or chaise lounge that you can feel comfortable hanging out in for a few hours. Placing a braided jute pouf or side table next to your chair is the perfect spot to leave your latest novel and perhaps your favorite beverage. (via @marzena.marideko)
32. Library Window Nook. An off-grid mountain homestead in Loveland, Colorado features this cozy book nook. Walls of books and a window with a view are the perfect recipe for a cozy reading nook.
(via Highcraft Builders)
33. Cozy Attic Window. A small nook in an attic window can use some DIY touches to transform it into a comfortable reading space. Add a small daybed mattress and wrap a cozy comforter or blanket around it. Add some throw pillows and some string lights for ambiance. The perfect spot to curl up during the cooler seasons! (via @marzena.marideko)
34. A Little Hobbit Nook. A reading (or napping) nook with a porthole view of the Texas woods. If you find this space charming, it is also for rent on Airbnb called “Live Oak Treehouse at HoneyTree Farm”. (via Reddit)
35. Inviting Window Nook. This is the perfect place to curl up with a good book and read the winter months away! (via @grace_start)
36. Vertical Shiplap. The vertical shiplap wall treatment adds wonderful coziness to this compact reading nook. The pillows were sourced from HomeGoods. (via Wildflower Home Blog)
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