STAY IN TOUCH
Subscribe to our newsletter for studio updates and design inspiration.

As the weather shifts towards cooler temperatures, there’s nothing better than lounging in a comfortable chair and getting lost in a book (with a piping hot fall beverage, of course). Reading nooks are about more than a picturesque corner of a room, though. They can be escapes for our minds and a chance to rest from our daily stresses and find rejuvenation.
If this is exactly what you’ve been craving heading into fall, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our simple step-by-step guide to creating your own nook. Before you know it, you’ll be plowing through that stack of books as the leaves make their dazzling color debuts.
Whenever possible, you want your reading nook to be situated in front of a window that gets plenty of natural light. Reading, after all, can’t be done in the dark. Plus, with a window view, it allows for moments of reflection or daydreaming between chapters, which is always a good idea when you’re trying to increase your relaxation opportunities. If you don’t have a window area, the next best thing is to install adequate artificial lighting. Whether you opt for an overhead fixture, table lamp, or floor lamp, be sure to situate it to allow for direct reading light without being too harsh or bright in your eyes.
Before you go out and purchase your furniture and decor, you’ll want to decide on your color palette. Remember that a reading nook is a place of rest, so choosing a color that is intuitively relaxing is essential. Blues are great shades for this, as are deeper and moodier hues. Of course, a bright shade can work as well – you’ll just need to maintain balance by keeping things feeling natural and simple. You want your eyes to find moments of rest even when there is plenty of stimulation around.
One of the most important elements of your reading nook is the seating. Whether you prefer a chaise or a deep sofa, comfort is key. If you plan to use this space whiling away several hours with a favorite book, you want to be able to sink into a piece of furniture and feel content. Avoid ultra-hard materials and consider adding an ottoman or footstool – however you like to kick up your heels at the end of the day, make that a priority for your nook.
The final step to create the reading nook of your dreams is to up the coziness factor. Layer plenty of textiles – throws, pillows, and more – and you’ll have a cushy area where you can lounge as long as you like. Try to incorporate a variety of patterns and materials, too – as long as you stay within the confines of your palette and it complements the rest of the room’s aesthetic, it’ll look stunning.