Designing for relaxation and wellness are top 2023 decorating trends, and reading nooks are becoming popular as more people try to limit their screen time. A cozy reading nook is the perfect place to take a break and get lost in your latest read.
Your reading space can be as simple as placing a comfy chair in an unused corner, but if you really want a space that’s comfortable for hours, consider a built-in design. Below, we’ve gathered our best reading nook ideas, including furniture considerations, how to approach a built-in book nook, what lighting you’ll need, and how to design the perfect library. There are book nooks for kids and even a reading nook hidden in an unused closet. Happy reading!
1 Custom Book Nook
If you have the option, building a book nook into a room can be a fun and rewarding use of square footage. Here, extra space at the end of a set of bunk beds was cleverly transformed into a reading nook with storage above and below. Use wallpaper to define the reading nook and add a sense of enchantment. And don’t forget a light source for late-night reading.
2 Primary Bedroom Reading Nook
A bedroom reading nook adds a sense of serenity and provides a natural place to unwind before bed. Here, a leather recliner cozies up to a small bookshelf and floor lamp. Use warm or even red light to help your body get ready for sleep.
3 Monochrome Bookshelves
Painting your entire room, including your bookshelves, in one color adds drama and allows reading materials to pop. Here, dark sage shelves frame a closet that’s been repurposed as a study, a great place to concentrate on reading for work or pleasure.
4 Study Space
Adding a table to your reading nook can be useful if you read oversize materials or if you need the area to double as an office. Placing the tulip table in this corner of built-in shelves makes it easy to grab and put away reference materials. Picture lighting creates a library look.
5 Create an Oasis
Replicate this sunroom reading nook by first locating a secluded spot with plenty of natural lighting. Comfy furniture is essential, as is a mix of artificial and natural lighting. Pile on the pillows, then add a side table or two for placing drinks or books. A great view is just a bonus.
6 Kid’s Reading Nook
Adding a reading nook to a kid’s closet might be a better use of space than hanging clothes that could just as easily fit in a dresser or wardrobe. The small space is a great way for kids to decompress and offers limitless options for play.
7 Library Ladder
A library ladder is both stylish and functional for maintaining shelves. Be sure your floor is a durable material, and consider adding railings to the ladder for safety and accessibility.
8 Bookshelves for Kids
If your reading nook is in a kid’s room, shallow display shelves allow kids to see the book options and select what they want to read. A traditional shelf where only book spines are visible can be hard to navigate for young kids who can’t yet read.
9 Reading Nook Materials
Details like upholstery choice can be important when making a reading nook both comfortable and beautiful. We love how this sleek chair looks in the midcentury modern surroundings; its leather upholstery helps readers stay cool in the warm climate.
10 Decorate a Reading Nook
Your reading nook should feel like an escape, so be intentional with how you decorate. If it feels good to be there, you’ll want to go more often, so fill your reading nook with things you like, such as a favorite upholstery pattern or a vintage find you’ve been meaning to display.
