How to Create a Cozy Reading Nook in Your Home

Wondering what is a cozy reading nook and how to design one in your home? Today, we’ll dive into the key essentials that make the best book nooks along with some truly delightful real-life examples to get you inspired! 

Years ago, I wrote a post about how to carve a quiet spot in your home. While many things have changed, my desire to log off and enjoy peaceful moments has not. I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who feels this way, so I thought it was time to update this concept and talk about how to create a reading nook.

What is a Reading Nook?

A reading nook is a special spot in your home where you can escape, relax, and enjoy flipping through the pages of your latest book. By the way…I’ve curated a list of 60+ decorating books that you can check out HERE ON AMAZON!

The best thing about a reading spot is anyone can carve out some space for one! You can create one to fit your needs and home, no matter your budget or decor style. 

How Do You Create a Reading Corner in a Small Space?

Reading nooks add a whimsical touch to any home, besides being a practical way to unwind and enjoy daydream escapades to your favorite fictional land.

You can set up a reading nook anywhere in your home that can fit a lamp, a comfy chair, and a side table. It’s just that simple!

However, there’re a few essential things to keep in mind to make the most of your reading magical corner.

While a reading nook doesn’t need to be in any specific room or large space, it should have enough room for the basics. It should include a comfy seat, a task lamp, and (if the space allows for it) a place to store your books along with a side table.

One key element is where the reading spot is located. Ideally, this space should be quiet and fit your description of “relaxing”.

In conclusion, a reading nook is somewhere you can practice mindful reading or just escape the hustle and bustle of life for a few moments, one page at a time.

How to Find The Best Reading Spot in Your Home: 

First, find your reading spot. Walk around your home and try to find a spot to make your reading nook. 

A little alcove, a closet without any specific use, that empty place under the stairs, or maybe a corner in your room that has no practical use can be transformed into a perfect reading niche.

Because lighting in any reading nook is a huge factor, finding a spot with a window is ideal.  Of course, natural light is wonderful but, it’s not necessary.

Cozy Reading Nook Ideas – Small Space Tips: 

Once you’ve picked the perfect spot, it’s time to pick the best reading nook furniture.

To save space, think vertical. 

Instead of a floor task lamp, go for wall-mounted lamps and shelves to store your books.
This will allow more room to place a comfortable chair. 

If you’re working with very little space, a wall folding table or a movable book cart can get the job done while being space-savvy.

Here are a few examples of delightful reading nooks we can replicate at home. Plus a few tips on how to achieve them.

Reading Nook by the Window – Grandmillennial Style:

This reading nook looks out to the lovely view and is perfect for relaxing with a book or for simply getting lost in thought.
For example, the armchair is dressed with a throw pillow and soft blankets, bringing comforting warmth to this reading spot.
Three small tables provide a place to keep the lamp, books, and drinks within easy reach. 

Scandinavian Reading Spot in Neutral Shades:

Inspired by the Scandinavian color scheme and the Hygge concept, this quaint reading nook is any book lover’s dream. Integrated into the living room, the ivory lounge chair with a footstool sits right next to a fireplace. On the side, a table holds a traditional lampshade while a rack ladder displays different blankets, all within the color scheme.

The neatly placed wood logs in the waved basket, along with the botanical-inspired decor, make this an excellent reading nook idea to recreate.

A Reading Corner in the Living Room:

A comfortable lounge chair with a footrest, floor task lamp, and one stool below the window make this reading spot a winner. In the back, the shelves double as a place to store books and display decor.
Perfectly blending old and new, this charming setting area has everything to enjoy a peaceful reading session without distractions.

French Rustic Chic Reading Nook:

This rustic take on a French chic farmhouse-style home is truly exquisite, isn’t it? 

There’s no need for extra decorations in this stunning space. This reading spot consists of two simple but essential pieces: a comfortable large chair and a floor lamp.
With exposed brick floors and large windows, this reading nook has a homey and rustic-chic feel. Don’t you just love it?

Boho-Inspired Library Reading Space:

Nurture your love of reading in this inviting room where books take center stage!
A floral patterned pillow adds a splash of color against the white and grey stripes of the chair. Open bookshelves in sage green provide a home for a large book collection, while the low side table by the chaise offers a spot to prop a cup of tea.

Modern Classic Take on a Reading Nook:

This room is a great example of how a simple empty corner can turn into an unexpected reading nook. A perfect place to escape from the demands of your workday, this reading spot is easy to recreate.
The homeowner used a comfortable armchair for modern comfort. A two-tier side table offers convenient access to your book and magazines, while the white lamp shape and area rug in a serene hue blues and greys add the chic and cozy touch.

A Homey Reading Nook Perfect for Small Spaces:


If having a bookcase library right in your home is your ultimate dream, this lovely reading corner may be what all the inspo you need!

This boho-inspired reading nook is the perfect place to curl up with a good book.
A cozy green chair, a crochet blanket in red and white hues, and a bright yellow wall lamp combine with the open bookshelves and wood flooring create a relaxing oasis. An ideal place where you can escape for hours devouring your favorite stories.

Below are 10 of my current favorite decorating books that I actually do own. Not only are they inspiring to look at, but look great on your coffee table or in your reading nook!

More Beautiful
Island Whimsy
Patina Homes
Rattan
Palm Beach Chic
Entertaining Beautifully
de Gournay
Provence Style
Sophisticated Simplicity

The Well Decorated Home

 

I’m certainly tempted to add a reading nook to my own home after looking at these lovely ones! How about you; do you have a reading nook or plan to make one?

Comment below! ♥

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One Comment

  1. I slipcovered an old Queen Anne style chair and didn’t know where to put it. I put it in my room I thought temporarily, and then I realized it fit perfectly there. I use it to put on my shoes and to do my homework or to just sit there and relax. Everytime I walk into my room and I see it, it always relaxes me. Win win. 🙂