10 Things You Need to Design the Most Welcoming Reading Nook

written by

Leah Groth

updated Mar 03, 2020

Curling up with a good book or magazine can be the perfect way to unwind from the chaos of life and take a little “me time.” In fact, for many of us it even serves a meditative purpose. While your living room sofa or bed may suffice as locations to get the job done, having a cozy space in your home designed to optimize reading can be truly game-changing.

Creating a cozy reading nook is also a lot easier than you would think, and doesn’t have to take up a lot of space in your home. As an added bonus, once your nook is complete it can be used for more than just reading.

“I like my reading nook to serve dual purposes—a space where I can catch up on emails, write cards or letters, Facetime with friends and family, meditate or simply catch up on the latest issue of my favorite magazines,” Courtney Fenimore, interior decorator at Spoak tells MyDomaine. “It should feel like a hideaway where you can recharge your batteries away from your electronics.”

I like my reading nook to serve dual purposes—a space where I can catch up on emails, write cards or letters, Facetime with friends and family, meditate or simply catch up on the latest issue of my favorite magazines.

Ready to design your own escape? Simply find the perfect window seat, corner, or small space in your abode and read on for everything you need to create the perfect reading nook according to experts.

01 of 10

A Comfy Chair and Ottoman

Start with the basics: seating. “For me, the most essential parts of a cozy reading nook are a comfortable chair and an ottoman—there’s something about reading that makes you want to kick your feet up,” says Christiane Lemieux, co-founder and CEO of The Inside.

02 of 10

A Side Table

You obviously will need a place to put down your coffee or tea, as well as your reading materials. “I’d also add a side table that can accommodate a lot of books, and functions as a bit of a bookshelf in its own right,” suggest Lemieux.

03 of 10

Cozy Textiles

An easy way to personalize your space is with some super cozy textiles like pillows, a throw blanket, and some personal accessories. “Even if it’s just a corner in a room, take the time to make it your own,” suggests Lauren O'Donnell, Build.com's in-house interior designer.

04 of 10

Let There Be (Artificial) Light

The great thing about a reading nook is that you can create it in that forgotten corner of your space. “Maybe one that gets no natural light,” Lemieux suggests. All you have to do is add a standing lamp that gives off a warm glow. “Not only does this make the most of every inch of your space, but also adds coziness,” she says.

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Books, Of Course

Since the purpose of a reading nook is, well, reading, printed material should be your go-to accessory. “An inspirational reading nook consists of literature in all forms including books, magazines, and newspapers,” says Fenimore. “Make sure this collection is organized so the space feels tidy.”

06 of 10

Plants

What instantly adds life to any living space? “Plants, plants, plants, and more plants,” explains Fenimore.

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Candles

Another cozy addition to a reading nook is an invigorating candle. “I personally enjoy scents that are fresh and clean to avoid anything overbearing,” Fenimore says.

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Art

Even if your nook is in a corner, make sure to add at least one strategically placed piece of art on the wall. “Adding art around cozy reading spaces also serves as a form of inspiration,” Fenimore points out.

09 of 10

String Lights

Another great way to add some cozy lighting to your reading nook is with the help of string lights, which “create a mood,” says Ella Hall of Stitchroom.

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A Cute Tray

Even if you don’t have room for a side table, Hall suggests finding a cute tray to place your mug or tray on. That way, your ottoman can serve multiple purposes.

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