A reading nook is a small corner dedicated to one thing: sitting comfortably with a book. It does not need a separate room. A chair, a lamp and a shelf in the right spot are enough.
Find the spot
Good candidates include a corner of the living room or bedroom, the space beside a window, a bay window, the landing at the top of the stairs, an alcove, or under the stairs. Look for a place a little away from the TV and the main traffic, with natural light during the day.
The seat
Comfort is everything. Options:
- A deep armchair with good back support and armrests, plus a footstool or ottoman.
- A chaise longue or daybed if you like to stretch out.
- A window seat with a thick cushion and pillows against the wall. A built-in bench can hide storage underneath.
- A hanging chair, or floor cushions and a pouf for a more casual feel, or for kids.
Sit in a chair before buying it, for at least as long as you would read.
Good light
Daylight is ideal, but you need a reading lamp for the evening: a floor lamp or wall-mounted swing-arm light placed slightly behind and beside you, shining onto the page. Choose warm white bulbs with good brightness, and avoid glare on the page. See how to choose the right lighting.
Books within reach
A small bookcase, wall shelves or a basket of books next to the chair keeps your current reads nearby. If you have no shelf, building one is a good project, see how to build a simple bookshelf.
A surface
A small side table for a cup of tea, glasses and a phone (or no phone at all, if you want to concentrate).
Softness and warmth
A throw blanket, cushions in different textures, and a small rug underfoot define the space and make it inviting. Curtains or a sheer panel can give a sense of enclosure.
For kids
A tent, a canopy hung from the ceiling or a pile of floor cushions with low, front-facing shelves where they can see covers encourages children to read.
Keep it simple
The best nooks are uncluttered. Resist adding too many decorative objects; the point is to make reading the easiest thing to do there. A nook in the bedroom adds to a relaxing atmosphere, as described in how to create a cozy bedroom.
