Reading Nook with Recliner With people spending more and more time at home, DIY home projects are on the rise. Not only are people looking to create more unique spaces for themselves, but they’re also trying to find ways to bring their own hobbies indoors. In today’s blog, the interior design experts discuss how to make a cozy reading nook in your home.

Pick the Perfect Spot

When designing a reading nook for adults or kids, the first thing to consider is placement. First, you need to figure out where you have space. Reading nooks can be found in bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, or porches, so there’s no right or wrong location. From there, you need to decide where it will fit in the room. Some of our favorite reading nook ideas capitalize on room corners, window seats, alcoves, or even closets. From there, you can personalize the space to make it fit your personality and needs. Choose a spot that makes sense for you and move forward from there.

Choose the Right Seating

Seating is perhaps the most important decision you’ll make when designing your reading nook. Choose from options like a chaise lounge, an accent chair, a rocker recliner, or a loveseat. Whatever style of seating you decide on, make sure you’ll be comfortable with an open book. You’ll want to consider a few factors, including:
  1. Firmness: Can you see yourself being comfortable for long periods of time—potentially many hours? If the answer is no, you may find yourself spending less time relaxing and more time fidgeting.
  2. Arm Support: Depending on your typical posture and preferred reading position, will the seating arrangement provide adequate support to hold a book for long reading sessions? Sure, the average book only weighs about a pound, but a page-turner held for hours can still be uncomfortable, without support.

Create the Right Ambiance

Your reading nook should be a cozy sanctuary from the world, so make sure you create the right ambiance. The first step is to consider color. Choosing the right color palette for your reading nook can make all the difference. Then consider the natural light in the room. Reading in the dark can be bad for your eyes, so think about upgrading the lighting with a floor or table lamp. You’ll also want to consider book storage. For a reading nook that reflects you and your personal style, we recommend displaying your books on a decorative bookcase for all to see.

Make Comfort a Priority

One of our favorite reading nook ideas is to outfit your reading nook with soft materials. Start with comfortable seating and then focus on the accessories, including everything from throw pillows to blankets and everything in between. Looking to really relax? A weighted blanket may be just what you need to take your reading nook to the next level. If you’re planning on designing a cozy reading nook, be sure to visit a Star Furniture location near you. We’ll help you find the furniture and decorations you need to design the perfect reading nook for your home or apartment. In the meantime, try out our easy-to-use Room Planner design tool to figure out the logistics of your space, and browse our extensive online décor & accent inventory for inspiration. You can also check out our interior design blog where we offer practical décor tips including everything from how to make a home office in a small space to entryway decorating ideas to take your foyer to the next level.