If reading is essential to you, odds are you’ve dreamt of owning your perfect private library.
You’ve probably got floor-to-ceiling shelves and gilded ladders in mind, with an eternally warm teapot and the home-baked croissants to snack on while you read for long luxurious hours.
It probably has also occurred to you in a burst of unasked for the reality that you’re not likely to achieve those dreams… at least not until a rich uncle from somewhere dies and grants you his fortune. (Look, we can hope.)
But do you know what is achievable instead? H
What you need is a reading nook that is affordable, cozy, and uniquely tailored to you. So let’s design one, shall we? Let me walk you through my list of reading nook ideas.
Benefits of Having a Reading Nook
Are you unsure if you even “need” space specifically devoted to reading? Numerous benefits can’t be denied.
Spaces devoted to reading make you want to read more
I recently wrote about how to read more
When you associate a place with reading, you’re likely to read more. And we know studies have shown that reading is good for your brain so should be part of your everyday self-care.
Reading nooks are perfect for displaying your favorite collections
Books aren’t just incredible tools for learning and exploring other worlds — they make fantastic decor too!
We like to think good books recommend good people. So if you’ve already got a bookshelf, why not expand it into a cozy nook around your shelves?
You can utilize odd spaces
Consider using that corner of a living room, or a window seat, part of your garage, or even convert an empty closet or revamp some storage space
Having an attractive and useful reading nook isn’t an undeserved indulgence. Take pride in your love of books and knowledge.
Life is full of busyness and demands, so putting aside not only time but a refurbished space for reading, can help keep you grounded and calm and well-adjusted.
Furniture Ideas
Adult reading nooks need more than a rug on the floor and a cute tent. Those things suit kids reading nook just fine, but we must take care of our old, old bones.
You can keep it affordable and attractive, as well as stylish! Don’t forget to cover the basics: chairs, shelves, and reading lights.
Reading Chairs
There are so many options when it comes to comfy sitting, but gravitate towards what feels right, not just what “looks good.” And keep it themed to your space.
If you’re working with rustic shelves and big windows, consider an armchair. If you’ve got a small corner, perhaps a bean bag would be better
If you need to keep it affordable — try perusing our list of best reading chairs, ranked from comfort and price.
For inspiration on what chair to pick, start with:
1. Classic Bean Bag
You can choose from multiple colors and styles, depending on the tone you’re setting for your nook.
2. Reading Hammock
Go for an alternative kind of chair! Why leave hammocks for beachside holidays when you can have one in your own home?
These will probably be too comfy to get up from, so make sure you sit down with a lot of books in easy reach. You can also get free-standing hammocks that don’t require holes in walls or ceilings, and they’re easy to set up.
3. Floor Cushion
Remember being a kid and flopping on the floor for hours with a book? Well now we get a crick in our neck if we do that; so consider investing in making the floor comfy.
You can get anything from sensible to edgy designs.
4. Rocking Chair
Ignore the naysayers! If you want to rock and read, go for it.
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5. Papsan Chair
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Pillows and Blankets
If you need a little more cushioning between you and the world, don’t forget to toss some pillows into your nook.
You can get ones that proclaim your bookworm status too. We highly recommend this, so people know that when you’re reading… you do not want to be disturbed.
1. More Books Pillows
Try this
2. Just One More Chapter
This one that says “just one more chapter…” which we know is a lie but shh, who’s telling.
3. Fluffy Pillow and Blanket Set
If you’re into textures, there’s this extra fluffy and soft faux fur pillow and blanket set. You could snuggle into these for hours.
4. Hoodie Blankets
For blankets, try a hooded galaxy cloak or a huggle hoodie that can double as a robe. The blanket is you, and you are the blanket.
5. Mermaid Tail Blanket
For those not wanting to forsake their childhood, you can also get crocheted blankets that look like mermaid fins for adults. If you’re going to be lost in reading a fantasy book, you might as well dress to match.
6. Cozy Warm Fluffy Blanket
For those who need a blanket that’s a little more refined, try this luxurious plush blanket, designed to throw over the couch or chair.
Organizing with Bookshelves
The eternal cry of a bookworm is always “I don’t have enough shelf space!”
So make sure your nook has enough shelves, preferably durable ones that also compliment your style.
1. Cube Shelves
If you’ve got the space, go for a spacious 25 cube organizer shelf and fill it to the brim.
2. Shelves with Vintage and Modern Designs
For something a little less intense and more modern, there are open-air shelves, or you can use floating shelves to keep the floor space free.
3. Open Display Bookshelf
For those with only a narrow space free for shelves, try using the fantastic ladder style.
Lighting
Nobody needs eyestrain so let’s circumnavigate that with good reading lighting. Good lighting also improves concentration.
Unlike the blue light behind most electronic devices, a good lamp light doesn’t stop you from falling asleep!
You can curl up in your reading nook for an hour with your book before bed and not over-stimulate your brain.
Book Light
Invest in a light that clips right onto your book — book light. These are ideal for night reading in a bean bag or bed, especially when your chair isn’t close enough to reach a floor lamp or ceiling light.
Also, they can come in such cute designs and shapes! You can find one that uniquely suits you and the thickness of books you read.
1. Table Lamp
What about a reading light for a desk or bedside table? If you’ve got your chair next to a coffee table, you can set a solid light there.
2. Floor Lamps
Floor lamps are probably the wisest choice for a reading nook. They spread a warm and robust glow with a far reach and can be situated anywhere in your reading space.
My particular favorite is the Modern Arched Light which reaches over your whole chair and shoulders, efficiently lighting up the page — made with LED, it’s also efficient to run.
Décor Ideas for Your Reading Nook
Here is where your nook can shine with your personal and unique touches!
Arguably books themselves are the best décor you can ask for, but why not spruce up your space with aesthetic lighting, wall prints, book anchors, and candles?
1. Book Candles
If you can’t get enough of that old book smell, try getting a candle with that specific scent! Light it while you read to create an excellent smelling ambiance.
2. Fake Candles
For those that love the atmosphere, a candle brings but having live flame around books makes you anxious… try counterfeit candles!
3. Book Anchor
If you struggle to keep a stiff book open or want a hand free to cradle a cup of tea, try a book anchor to keep your pages secure. They are
4. Vinyl Decals
Any spare space that’s not filled with shelves? There are so many decal quotes you can put on the wall!
I love this one that says ‘Never Stop Reading’ and this quote by St. Augustine on how the world is a book.
5. Vintage World Map Canvas
Reading is a constant journey and adventure, a chance to travel the world without leaving your chair. This vintage atlas would look exceptional on the wall!
6. Book Page Art
Try a page of a favorite book with a gorgeous illustration printed on it
7. Pretty Lighting Decor
While you need proper lighting to avoid eyestrain, there is no denying the gorgeous lure of aesthetic fairy lights or a lamp shaped like a book that changes colors when you turn the pages!
8. Reading Sign
Just in case people don’t realize your newly crafted and decorated space is for reading, put up a sign.
Get one to specifically say Reading Room or perhaps My Weekend Is All Booked.
About the Author
CG Drews is a YA book blogger with the goal to read every book in existence. She’s aiming for immortality for this. When not reading, she writes novels and blogs at paperfury.com.