Making a reading nook
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.
28 Reading Nooks You Could Read in Forever
By
Kaitlyn McInnis
Kaitlyn McInnis
Kaitlyn McInnis is a lifestyle expert and writer specializing in global interior design trends and styles which she is able to experience first-hand through her extensive travels.
Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Forbes, Homes & Gardens, and Real Homes. Kaitlyn also worked for AskMen.com, where she managed an international team of writers and experts.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 01/20/22
The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto
In our chaotic lives, a responsibility-free afternoon or even five minutes is a luxury. But if we dedicate spaces in our homes to peaceful activities, such as reading a novel, working through a stack of magazines or even putting on a mud mask and meditating, they can serve as reminders to slow down and find time for self-care amid hectic schedules.
A reading nook can achieve this. Although a soft chair, plush throw pillow, and ottoman is an invitation to crack open a favorite read, a reading nook is a place where you can sit and take a breath. It should be a corner, or if you like, an entire room of your home dedicated to your needs and unique personality.
What are the things that make you feel cozy? Is it a warm, handwoven throw blanket you bought on Etsy? A small table filled with books, pictures, and flowers? Perhaps it’s being surrounded by a veritable indoor jungle of houseplants.
The trick is to think about the things that make you feel happy and soothed, and bring those elements into your reading nook. Here are some inspiring spaces to get you started.
The 9 Best Reading Chairs of 2022
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01 of 28
Incorporate Soft Materials
The House on Hillside Lane
Nothing says “cozy” more than a chair that you can truly sink into, just like this one softened up by The House on Hillside Lane. This chair, rendered in cloud-like white, calls for a few restful minutes (or more) spent with a beloved book.
Find a chair that feels sumptuous to the touch, then match it with a throw pillow that brings in color or texture, along with personal bits of decor, like family photos, or wall hangings brought back from a vacation. Learn How to Mix and Match Throw Pillows
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02 of 28
Include a Bookshelf
House of Harvee
Someday you’ll have a home library that rivals the one in Beauty and the Beast. For now, if you’re working with a small space, such as a window seat, flank your reading nook with a built-in bookshelf, like this one crafted by the interior designers at The Habitat Collective. A bookshelf that’s alongside your reading nook means your top tomes are always at the ready for an afternoon of reading. And with natural light like this, you won’t miss a word.
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03 of 28
Place Your Nook in a Bedroom Corner
Maite Granda
A reading nook doesn’t require a lot of space, and an ideal spot for one is that random, empty corner of your bedroom.
That’s what Maite Granda did in this bedroom. She created a classic reading nook with a simple white chair, flanked with a small side table and gold lamp—perfect for morning reading with the newspaper. -
04 of 28
Consider Comfort
@reflektiondesign
“When we think of a reading nook we envision a small, cozy space where we can lounge, read, and simply escape from our day to day for a little while,” says Megan Dufresne, principal designer at MC Design. “Traditionally this would include a comfortable oversized chair, chaise, or sofa, a good light source, and of course a place to keep books, magazines, newspapers, or more likely a tablet these days.”
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05 of 28
Add Whimsical Details
MC Design
With the basics in place you can add your own creative touch to make it unique and fit your specific needs. “Consider adding a vintage record player, a bar cart, or a fun art piece,” suggests Dufresne.
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06 of 28
Use Vertical Space
@masha_kindjer
Vertical space is worth taking advantage of—whether you’re working with a small space or you just want to keep your books up and off the ground.
Add a couple of additional decor pieces and you have yourself a sumptuous corner to get cozy in. -
07 of 28
Make the Most of Angles
MC Design
Dealing with some weird corners in your space? Instead of trying to work around them you can embrace the space and turn it into a distinct nook. This will add visual interest and make your reading nook even more cozy and unique.
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08 of 28
Go Green
@thevisionaryhusbands
A bohemian design-inspired book nook is super easy to emulate: all you really need is a chunky wicker chair and a couple of plants. Consider adding a few colorful cushions to make the space even more welcoming and comfortable.
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09 of 28
Take Advantage of Small Rooms
@ourpnw_home
Those funny third bedrooms usually wind up being used as storage—but it’d be much better off using your teeny extra bedroom for a reading room. Consider installing a couple of shelves, add a pretty little lamp, and position a comfy chair next to the window for optimal coziness.
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10 of 28
Look Under the Stairs
@realtor_niafox
Harry Potter fans know that a cupboard under the stairs is more than enough space for a little reading nook. The dead space that can occur in an open concept staircase is one of the best spots to throw a couple of pillows or accent chairs for reading.
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11 of 28
Opt for Unique Wallpaper
@thecollectivedallas
If you don’t have the space to carve out a full corner or room for reading, you can easily make the distinction between social living space and reading nook by using a unique wallpaper for an accent wall. Add a comfortable chair and a lamp and you have the perfect spot for curling up with a good book.
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12 of 28
Take It Outdoors
MC Design
Indoor reading nooks are wonderful—but a spot to read under the stars is even better. Consider adding a couple of weatherproof pillows to an unused corner of your balcony or backyard patio—and don’t forget the steaming cup of coffee to keep you warm as you turn each page.
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13 of 28
Use Transitional Spaces
@itshomeyall
Wondering what to do with that awkward extra space in your bedroom or hallway? Consider adding a small bench and a cozy stack of pillows or blankets. The transitional space can easily be transformed into a reading nook as long as it doesn’t get a lot of foot traffic from other members of your household.
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14 of 28
Get Cozy in a Corner
@love_in_1000_square_feet
You really can’t beat an unused corner when it comes to reading nook real estate. Position a comfy chair kitty-corner, add a side table for your coffee and bookmark, and let the must-read stack of books grow.
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15 of 28
Take Advantage of Natural Light
@layeredhomeliving
If you’re lucky enough to have space in your home that becomes flooded with natural light, you might want to consider creating a reading nook that’ll allow you to bask in the sun. Consider a more minimal chair that won’t block the light and a simple side table or footstool for added comfort.
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16 of 28
Section Off Your Space
@trevorfulmerdesign
Reading nooks require tranquility—but if you have a hard time finding space in your home that doesn’t get foot traffic you might need to take matters into your own hand. A simple dressing screen can create a cozy space free from the distractions in the rest of your space.
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17 of 28
Hang Out
@i.hate.wednesdays
Cozy chairs and sofas are great—but a hanging hammock chair? Even better! An indoor swing or hammock instantly adds a sense of play and whimsy to your space and makes for a surprisingly soothing experience.
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18 of 28
Play With Scale
@darbywallisdesign
Reading nooks are always a more whimsical part of home decor—so you may as well lean into it. Playing with scale (like adding an oversized pouf or a micro-mini side table) will set your nook apart from the rest of your home while still remaining practical.
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19 of 28
Try Patterns
@selinalake
Texture and patterns can make or break a great reading nook—especially if you lean toward more colorful designs. Consider stacking multiple cushions of varying shades for a visually interesting and comfortable space.
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20 of 28
Use a Closet
@area3design
Lots of homeowners have leaned into the closet office trend over the past couple of years—but a closet reading nook might be even better. It takes a little more effort to create a fitted bank for the space but you can just as easily add a couple of chairs or a pile of pillows.
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21 of 28
Create a Window Seat
@homesweetlakehouse
A window seat is one of the best spots to create a book nook—it’s cozy and offers, quite literally, a window to let your mind wander. If you don’t have a window seat in your home you can add a chaise lounge chair for a similar effect.
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22 of 28
Take It To-Go
@thewellreadgram
If you’re lucky enough to have an abundance of cozy nooks and crannies in your space, you might want to forego one designated book nook and instead lean into the idea of a book cart.
This will allow you to roll your nook around to wherever it is that has the best light or the least amount of distractions at a given moment. -
23 of 28
Take Advantage of Cushions
@little_weavers_cottage
The right cushions and pillows can turn just about any space into a comfortable reading nook. If you don’t want to invest in furniture or home improvement projects, a simple cushion thrown on the floor with a couple of pillows to prop yourself up will be just as cozy.
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24 of 28
Play With Lighting
@bokcily
The easiest way to make a space feel instantly comfy and inviting? The right string of fairy lights! Many of us forget just how cozy and magical fairy lights can be once we graduate from our college dorms—but a simple string of warm lights can make any space relaxing.
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25 of 28
Take Advantage of Dead Space
@masha_kindjer
Do you have dead space in front of your existing bookshelf or storage area? It might seem like a no-brainer but adding a comfortable chair and a couple of pillows will turn the dead space into your favorite nook in the house.
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26 of 28
Make Use of Odd Space
@reddalec
Whether it’s a cramped corner or a staggered part of your split-level, creating a book nook in an odd part of your home will instantly turn the space into your most-used part of the house—just add pillows!
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27 of 28
Create a Tent Space
@sorenshouse
Hoping to foster a love of reading in your little one? Creating a cozy reading nook for kids is pretty simple—all you really need is a pile of pillows and a canopy. Consider adding extra cushions on the ground if you plan on sharing the space.
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28 of 28
Go for a Multifunctional Space
@englisheccentriccottage
If you have more than one need for a quiet and cozy space—lean into it and opt for something more multi-functional. A booth by the window with a small side table will make the perfect reading nook during the day and cocktail spot for happy hour.
25 Kids Reading Nooks That Are Cool and Stylish
Designing a Reading Space - 17 Options and Three Rules
Rule #1: Good Lighting
Place your reading space close to a window to protect your eyesight.
Natural light is your eyes' best friend.
Use a lamp for evening reading. Position it to your right, 30-40 cm to the side and 25-30 cm above the book. The power of the light bulb should be 500 watts, but its light must be scattered and not hit the eyes.
Rule No. 2: Comfortable and beautiful furniture
In order not to be distracted from the plot on a stiff back, choose a comfortable chair. The ideal chair is one with enough room to toss and turn.
Reading is even more comfortable with the footrest. The only thing missing is a crackling fireplace.
A real book lover can read anywhere, but it's more pleasant to do it in a beautiful chair. And for those who want to develop the habit of reading more, their favorite chair will be another reason to pick up a book.
The classic version is an easy chair. The main plus is that it takes up little space and it is easy to find a budget option.
Do not be afraid to experiment: the original armchair will enliven even the most restrained interior.
If your house has concrete or brick walls, you can hang a hammock.
Another air option is the hanging chair. There are two types: on a stand and attached to the ceiling. It can only be fixed to a wooden load-bearing beam or concrete floor. Therefore, the fastening of the chair must be considered before installing the false ceiling.
People with wide window sills often build a reading space right on top of them. Don't forget comfortable non-slip pillows and back cushions.
A small mattress, a mountain of pillows, a canopy and a garland - a very cozy place to read. Make sure the garland is of good quality and does not get hot, otherwise the fabric may catch fire.
Chest and pillows solve the problem of reading space and book storage at the same time.
The niche also turns into a place for storage and recreation.
Another way to optimize space is with a chair bed.
During the day it is a comfortable reading corner, and at night it is an extra bed.
Rule #3: Location
Scientists advise to turn off the computer an hour before bedtime and spend time reading a book. At the same time, reading in bed is not very good for the spine. The solution is simple - we put an armchair in the bedroom, near the bed. Don't forget the pretty lamp and coffee table. They create the feeling of a separate well-thought-out zone.
Another win-win option is closer to the bookcase. Books will stop wandering around the house, and the atmosphere will set you up for reading.
And if you're an e-reader, it's best to stay close to a power outlet.
It's a good idea to place a reading nook near your workspace. Tired of working, they sat down in a chair and immersed themselves in a book. “Rest is a change of occupation,” as the famous scientist Pavlov said.
If you want privacy and silence, try to arrange a place for reading on the loggia.
The kitchen is for eating, the bedroom is for sleeping, the dressing room is for clothes, but we usually have nowhere to be alone, read a book and just think in silence.
To make this possible, try to arrange a place where you feel good and comfortable. And let your path to a cozy home begin with a reading nook.
Set up a reading nook | Blog Angstrem
09/15/2020
485 Views , 0 Comments
To fully enjoy literature, you need not only good books, but also a cozy interior. If there is a comfortable reading corner at home, then you will read more. We help with advice.
1. The classic option is a couch or reading chair in the work area. So that you can, if necessary, take a break from work tasks without leaving home, give the brain the recharge it needs in comfortable conditions.
2. A place to read in a window niche is the dream of many.
Such a magical option will surely become a favorite corner not only for reading, but also just for relaxing. There is a lot of natural light, comfortable soft pillows and a warm blanket. It remains only to get comfortable.
3. If you don't like to waste time in vain - organize a comfortable place for reading in the kitchen. You can flip through the book while you wait for the meal to be cooked. A comfortable chair and thoughtful lighting will take care of your comfort.
4. If you live in your own house and there is an empty corner in the large living room, you can put a vintage armchair, a floor lamp and an ottoman there. It will turn out a secluded place for reading, where it will be very easy to immerse yourself in the world of the book, and most importantly, it will be convenient.
5. A great solution for your home is to create a cozy reading space in a niche under the stairs. You can just put a couch and a floor lamp. And the screen will help to fence off from everyone, so that nothing interferes with the process.
6. Make your reading nook special with large plants. Turn this area into a kind of winter garden. Then all year round you can feel like being in nature. Such reading will be especially appreciated. Choose a comfortable chaise longue, daybed, or interesting chair to make privacy with a book as comfortable as possible.
7. An excellent option for summer reading is a corner on the balcony. A small armchair, a small table, a soft pillow - and now you are already at the mercy of the chosen book.
8. Organize a place for common reading in the nursery. Choose the lighting that the baby will like, place a shelf with a selection of interesting books at a comfortable height, and let the child decide what he wants to listen to before bedtime.
Take your pick and create a place where every family member can enjoy reading. Good luck!
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