Whether you’re an avid reader or simply want a cozy spot to unwind, a dedicated reading nook is a valuable addition to any home. “When the weekend rolls around, you’ll want some well-deserved me-time,” says Ksenya Malina, founder of New York interior design studio Time & Place Interiors. “There’s no better setting to savor relaxing moments than an inviting book nook, where you can unwind with a cup of coffee—or a glass of whiskey—in hand and a good read on your lap.”
To design your perfect reading nook, start with the basics, like a comfortable seat and stylish … [+] bookcase.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
Katie Shober, known for her popular #bookstagram, Beach Reads and Bubbly, and the stunning home library often featured on her account, agrees. “Having a space dedicated to reading feels like such an indulgence, but carving out any space in your home—even just a chair with a good reading light—helps eliminate distractions and makes the reading experience so enjoyable,” she says.
To design your perfect reading nook, start by selecting an area of your home to devote to the space, ideally one with ample natural light. If you’re creating your nook in an existing room, use a rug, dividers or even a wide bookshelf to delineate the space.
Malina advises, “Start with the basics: a comfortable seat and good lighting.” Once those are in place, you can begin layering the area with personal accents and inviting touches to create a serene environment tailored just for you.
Start With A Bookshelf
If you don’t have built-in shelves, your first step should be finding the perfect bookshelf. Choose a style that reflects your personality and complements your home’s design. Bookshelves range from ultra-modern to classic and traditional, to fun and whimsical. Above all, make sure it’s functional—a decorative bookshelf that only holds a handful of books won’t serve much purpose in a reading nook.
Target
Saracina Home Arched Bookcase
This stunning arched bookshelf adds architectural interest to your reading nook. You can pair multiple units together for added storage, and it’s spacious enough to hold plenty of books and decorative items.
CB2
CB2 Stairway Black Wall-Mounted Bookcase
“This powder-coated aluminum shelf is both sleek and space-saving. Mount one or a row of multiples on your wall to create a bookshelf as long or short as you need,” says Malina.
Anthropologie
Anthropologie Oscarine Lucite Mirrored Bookshelf
Who says a book nook can’t also be dazzling? This eye-catching Lucite bookshelf gives off major Art Deco vibes and would make a stunning landing spot for your favorite books and keepsake items.
Add Comfortable Seating
Having a cozy spot to curl up in is essential for any reading nook, but you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on a new chair. “This can be a dedicated chair by a window in your living room or office,” says Malina. “Or it could be a section of the sofa or a daybed with some extra pillows.”
If you are shopping for a new chair, look for one with good cushioning or a design that lets you sink in and relax for hours.
Target
Calvert Contemporary Velvet Chaise Lounge
“It’s important to pick out a chair that’s comfortable for your body type or accommodates how you like to sit,” shares Malina. “A chaise lounge is great for putting your feet up. If you like to lean on a side, consider a chair with arms where you can prop up a pillow.”
Rove Concepts
Rove Concepts Womb Chair and Ottoman
Yes, it’s an investment, but the Womb Chair is a modern classic, beloved for its calming, sweeping lines and single shell frame. The cushions are adjustable, allowing you to get comfortable in any position—whether sitting or lounging—that you prefer.
LoveSac
LoveSac Accent Chair
This is practically a bed in chair form—what could sound cozier than that? Designed to fit the uber-popular Lovesac PillowSac, this chair lets you curl up with your current book obsession and maybe even sneak in a nap (or two).
Article
Article Timber Leather Lounge Chair
A plush, stylish armchair you can sink into is hard to beat. The extra-wide seat makes it easy to comfortably curl your legs under, and it’s one of those chairs that just gets better—and softer—with age.
Don’t Forget Good Lighting
After the books themselves, good lighting is crucial for a comfortable reading experience. Assess your space to determine the best lighting option—whether it’s a wall-mounted sconce to save floor space, a floor lamp for broader coverage, or a table lamp if you’re adding a small side table. Ensure that the light you choose is bright enough to read comfortably.
West Elm
West Elm Coco Articulating Sconce
According to Malina, “You’ll want a lamp that offers sufficient directional light onto your reading material, like a pharmacy-style floor lamp or a wall-mounted sconce.” This sculptural sconce features an adjustable arm, allowing you to direct light precisely where you need it to create the perfect reading environment.
Design Within Reach
Flos Tab Floor Lamp
“Every book nook needs a good reading light. This modern pharmacy-style floor lamp by the award-winning British design team Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby pivots light, allowing you to direct it precisely where you need it,” raves Malina.
Amazon
Bablo Candle Warmer Lamp With Timer
Create a real vibe in your reading nook with this clever lamp that warms up a candle underneath to release a relaxing lavender scent without an open flame. It also features a timer and dimmer option to set the perfect ambiance.
Add A Side Table
“Like all seating throughout your home, your reading chair should ideally be paired with a side table for resting a beverage. This could be a cocktail table or even a small side stool,” advises Malina.
Anthropologie
Anthropologie Targua Inlay End Table
If space is tight, consider a slim accent table with striking design details to make the most of your area. This gorgeous table is just large enough to rest a drink and a candle.
Amazon
Hosfais Small Side Table
This multi-functional side table can slide under your chair, placing your glasses or books right in front of you. The bottom ledge also lets you stack some decorative books for an extra touch of style.
CB2
CB2 Novo Acrylic Folding Table
This chic acrylic table is spacious enough to hold all your essentials while maintaining a sleek profile. It can also be folded and stored away to free up space when needed.
Lastly, Layer With Cozy And Personal Accessories
After you’ve sourced the basics, it’s time to have fun. As Malina says, “Layer on the extras: an ottoman, a throw blanket and a natural soy scented candle.”
Amazon
Steel Mill & Co. Original Book-Shaped Decorative Vase
Shober has this sweet vase in her own library and raves, “This book-shaped vase is the perfect touch to any book nook—whether you add flowers or not!”
Amazon
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Ribbed Throw
Shober raves, “This blanket is massive—perfect for wrapping yourself up in. The
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