5 Simple Cosy Reading Nook Ideas
Placing your book down on the coffee table, you reach for your laptop and start searching for cosy reading nook ideas. Your usual spot on the sofa is comfortable enough, but you’ve always dreamed of creating a designated reading zone where you can relax and unwind with a good book, completely distraction-free.
Turning your attention to your home, you think about the cosy spaces where a reading nook would fit perfectly. There’s the snug spot by the window for reading with a view, or the empty corner that could easily be transformed with the help of some atmospheric lighting.
Discover how to create the perfect home reading nook with these simple yet beautiful ideas.
Stylish & cosy reading nook ideas for your home
Creating a comfortable and inviting reading nook can be a challenge, especially in a small home. Take inspiration from these reading nook ideas to transform any spot into a personalised space for getting cosy with your favourite book.
1. Select a spot with a view
Take advantage of any beautiful views outside your home by locating your reading nook close to a window. Seeing the landscape when you look up from your page will make your reading experience more enjoyable, and you’ll also benefit from lots of natural light.
Turn a windowsill into a cosy reading spot with a view simply by adding some cushions – you’ll need a long one to sit on, as well as several smaller ones to lean against. Add a pair of wall lights, like the small porcelain wall light, to either side of the windowsill to ensure you can read comfortably even after the sun sets.
If you’re lucky enough to have a bay window, this is the perfect spot for a reading nook. Place an armchair facing towards the window and include a small circular side table if space allows so that you have somewhere to rest your drinks and snacks. Larger bay window areas might even allow space for a bookshelf along with seating to really elevate the cosy ambience.
2. Make the most of empty corners
If your living space has an empty corner that isn’t being used, this could be the ideal spot for a small and cosy reading nook. Select furniture that fits the space, such as a built-in seating area or a corner chair, to get the most out of your square footage.
To make your corner reading nook feel like its own distinctive space, use furnishings to separate it from the rest of the room. If space allows, this could be a stylish room divider that literally divides the room into different zones, but it could also be something much smaller and more subtle if space is limited.
“Use a circular rug under your reading chair to really zone your sanctuary.”
Ally Dowsing-Reynolds, lighting expert and co-founder of Dowsing & Reynolds
Finally, you’ll need to think carefully about lighting when designing your corner reading nook. The edges of our interiors often lack light, which is far from ideal for a cosy reading spot. Select an ambient floor or table lamp to ensure your nook is well-lit and create an inviting atmosphere.
3. Opt for cosy furnishings
Cosy furnishings are essential to creating any cosy reading nook, no matter how big or small. Your reading nook should be a calming sanctuary where you can relax and unwind, so make sure to add plenty of comfortable cushions, pillows, and throws.
‘Choose a feature chair, then layer up the texture with a warm throw and plump cushion for maximum comfort’, says Ally. ‘A footstool provides the ultimate in luxurious relaxation; upcycling a vintage find is a great way to achieve this.’
Lighting is also an important consideration when it comes to creating a cosy ambience. Wall lights are a great option for reading nooks as they work well for reading but also look aesthetically pleasing.
4. Choose an enticing colour palette
Colourful accents draw us into a space, creating a welcoming ambience. Make your reading nook more inviting by opting for upholstery and décor that introduces a pop of colour or an eye-catching pattern.
“Paint the wall closest to your nook a calming and inviting colour to help zone your space.”
Ally Dowsing-Reynolds, lighting expert and co-founder of Dowsing & Reynolds
There are plenty of ways to introduce enticing colours into your reading nook. Opt for cushions in shades of soothing colours like blue or green to help you relax, or choose a statement-making table lamp like the terrarium arch table lamp.
If your reading nook is located in a living room or bedroom, you could paint the wall closest to your nook a calming and inviting colour to help zone your space.
5. Create a relaxing atmosphere with lighting
To create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere in your reading nook, choosing the right lighting is key.
‘Plug-in wall lights are an easy way to cosy up your nook and provide a relaxing warm glow to read by, especially if you’re short on space’, says Ally. Alternatively, an atmospheric table lamp is great for lighting up a small reading nook. Opt for something with a soothing shape and design, such as the gold Waldorf table lamp.
For larger reading nooks, consider going big and bold with your lighting. A beautiful bubble chandelier is great for creating an attractive focal point that draws you into the reading nook.
Think about the colour temperature of your light bulbs, too. Warm bulbs with a colour temperature of 3000 Kelvins or less are best for creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Ally’s design tip: ‘Be sure to position your reading light where it radiates a warm glow you can read by rather than casting shadows across your page.’
Show us your cosy reading nook ideas
We’d love to see how you’ve used these cosy reading nook ideas to create a relaxing spot in your home. Tag us on Instagram @dowsingandreynolds – we can’t wait to see what you’ve come up with!
