How to create the perfect reading nook
From the best spots in your home to the best textures to decorate with, here are some helpful tips and tricks to decorate a cosy reading nook.
In fast-paced modern life, we often find ourselves searching for pockets of peace in our downtime. This has led to the rise of lifestyle and interior-related trends like hygge, slow living and digital minimalism. As connected as we are, many people feel fatigued or too wired after spending too much time in front of screens. Rediscovering the simple joys in life may be just what you need – and one way you can do so is by carving out time to read.
Creating a reading nook in your home is a gentle reminder for us to slow down and appreciate our surroundings. It’s a space dedicated to relaxation and often features our own personal touches. It doesn’t matter what interior style you love – comfort is key.
From the best spots in your home to the best textures to decorate with, here are some helpful reading nook ideas.
1. Find a good spot in your home
Choose a quiet, cosy and comforting corner in your home for your reading nook. Think of a space where you can read in peace without being disturbed by other people. An underused corner in your living room or an alcove may serve as inspiration for you to decorate it.
Here are some other suggested spaces:
- By a window overlooking a nice view with a lot of natural light
- A cosy reading nook under the stairs to save space
- A spare room with extra space so that you can install bookshelves
2. Set the mood with lighting
If you’re reading for long periods of time, good lighting is essential. If your reading nook is near a window, you’ll receive plenty of natural light throughout the day but you will still need to prepare for the evenings. However, if you don’t get much natural light, you should invest in task lighting nearby, like a nearby table or floor lamp. Besides task lighting, introducing ambient lighting helps set the mood and makes your space feel more cosy.
3. Prioritise cosiness with the ambience
From the type of armchair you choose to how you decorate your walls and floors, cosiness must be a priority. When it comes to the armchair, comfort and support are key. A good armchair should be:
- Soft and supportive
- Have ample cushioning for the back and armrest areas
- Deep seats that let you curl up
- Have soft upholstery like velvet, plush fabric or boucle
Choosing the right side table next to your armchair will make your space feel more cosy and functional. In terms of size, pick one where you can place your book easily, a cup of tea or any decorative items like a vase. Once you’ve chosen the armchair and side table, complement it with lots of cosy textures and accessories. Whether it’s a cushion or throw for your armchair or a soft rug where you can stretch out your feet, these cosy accents ground you and create a tranquil environment.
4. Choose your colour palette
Set the scene with a soothing colour palette for your reading nook. Light and gentle colours are the natural first option here, but it’s important to consider small pops of colour that can brighten up your space and anchor the room.
The simple, light hues create a soothing and welcoming space ideal for kicking back and relaxing, while introducing colourful accents adds character and charm to the space. This can be with a colourful bouquet or bold artwork for a stylish focal point.
5. Enhance your reading nook with storage
Having a bookshelf next to your reading corner with all your favourite novels within reach is another functional tip to enhance your space. If you have an alcove nearby, you can add shelving to make space for your books or to display decorative items.
For those who want to keep it simple and stylish, choose a bookcase with clean lines and in a neutral tone. Aside from bookcases, you can also add more built-ins, like a storage bench or install floating shelves, depending on the layout of your space.
6. Create a mindful space with soothing touches
What better way to practise self-care than to curl up and relax in your safe space?
Aside from reading, a reading nook also serves as a place of rest. Cultivating a mindful and wellness-inspired space is a great place to practise self-care. It can be used as a space to unplug, to journal or even as a meditation spot. Accessorise by adding soothing touches to your nook with indoor plants or an essential oil diffuser.
7. Bring the walls to life
Aside from relaxing paint colours, you can create a standalone feature wall with wallpaper. Similar to colour psychology, it’s important to choose a print or pattern that’s soothing. Floral and fauna patterns are a good choice and can also make it feel like an escape as you’re lost in a book.
It may help to pick a theme when choosing a pattern, like your favourite flower or animal print of choice. This makes it easy to bring in other accents such as a cute plushie or an indoor plant that matches the theme.
8. Make a statement with a feature wall
Decorate your reading corner by adding personal touches to the walls. Think of your wall as an empty canvas with framed motivational quotes from your favourite novel or author, quirky wall decal or bold artwork to brighten up the space.
For maximum impact, introduce a gallery wall that allows you to display as many framed pieces depending on the size of your reading nook. Choose a common theme that ties all these photos together, such as nature prints, colour or inspirational quotes.
9. Introduce personal touches
Since your reading nook serves as your quiet escape, it should also represent who you are as a person. Displaying personal mementoes like photographs, movie posters, or postcards from your travels are some of the ways to inject personality into your reading nook.
Another cool way to add personal touches is by bringing in a sound system or record player so that you can listen to your favourite tunes while reading.
10. Make room for two
If you think reading is more than just a solitary activity, why not decorate your nook so someone else can (quietly) join you? Introduce an indoor bench or a large armchair to your reading nook which allows you to accessorise with soft, comfy textures such as a cashmere throw and lots of cushions.
If the reading nook is a space for you to bond with your kids, bring in lots of playful touches like a stuffed animal they can hug, a funky wallpaper print or a whimsical lamp. Think of it as a place where you can make the best memories all in the comfort of your own home.
We hope you enjoyed our guide on how to create the perfect reading nook. Looking for more décor tips like this? Check out our cosy living room ideas guide or hygge ideas for more inspiration.
