Reading is a time for us to relax, to learn, to escape and to get cosy! The first most important thing about reading is the book, the second is to find the perfect armchair and a place to delve into it. So if you're looking for reading corner ideas, you've come to the right place!
It doesn't have to cost a fortune to make your own reading spot; you can be creative by upcycling furniture and crafting your own DIY reading seat, or you can keep it simple and find an empty space by the window.
Whether you are looking to transform an area of your house or want to make a small space super cosy, here is our guide on how to create the ultimate cosy reading spot. We've included small reading corner ideas as well as simple DIY reading spaces.
The best reading corner ideas
Fill it with cosy textures
There is nothing that says comfort more than a cosy blanket, a fluffy rug and a cup of tea! Add soft textures to your reading nook like a fluffy rug or thick throw. Then you can dig your toes into the soft carpet and into your book.
Utilise an empty space by a window
As the last rays of sun flood into the room, what better place to read your book than nestled in a reading chair by the window. Whether you want to catch the light of dawn, the mid-day sun or cosy up at dusk, a seat by the window will put you in the mood to read.
Place your reading nook in a bedroom corner
Make use of empty spaces in your bedroom and add a reading chair. Your bedroom is your place to unwind in peace. So, bring your you novel and settle down to read in your reading corner.
Kid's den
There is something so special about building a den, opening up a book and escaping to a new wondrous place! If you are looking for children's reading corner ideas, a blanket fort is always a fun idea (and for adults too). Add a book holder stand and it's good to go.
Vintage and antique vibes
Nothing is more inviting than settling down in a comfy chair, surrounded by books and antique furniture. Just like when you walk into a bookshop and smell the paperbacks and browse through the oak shelves; this atmosphere will make you want to delve into a book.
Built-in bookshelves
Looking for book storage ideas? Place your reading corner by your bookshelf and next time you want to unwind, the corner will invite you in. You could also make a DIY built-in bookshelf. You can use a sturdy shelf, place the books underneath and add cushions and blankets on top. Then you have a little reading nook for yourself.
Comfy chair
Your reading nook doesn't need to be a generic chair. Get creative and make use of your little space. Maybe invest in an indoor hammock chair or make a DIY seat with a storage box and some padded cushions.
Bring home some houseplants
Sit and read among your house plants. It is proven that greenery lifts our spirits, whether than be outside or sitting beside your indoor garden. The plants will help you relax and improve your mood. Making this a perfect spot to create your reading corner.
Make a window seat
This is one of our favourite DIY reading corner ideas as there is something so romantic about a window seat. If you have a window seat or a large enough window bay to install one, these chairs make for a perfect reading nook. Stretch out under the window and enjoy the sun on your face whilst you read your novel.
Outdoor reading area
If the weather allows it, who says you have to read indoors. If you have a patio, balcony or bench why not get some fresh air accompanied by your book. Throw some pillows on the seat, grab a cosy blanket and surround yourself with nature as you turn the pages.
Cosy up together
Maybe you like to read beside your loved ones? Whether it be a person or your pet, make a loveseat your reading corner. Then you can curl up beside someone and open up your book.
Reading lights
Creating a dedicated space for reading is easy as long as you have somewhere comfortable to sit and good light to read. Position and overhead lamp, desk lamp or reading light in your reading corner to ensure you have good light to flick through the pages. The hue of lighting will make a difference too, yellow lighting will make you feel warm and sleepy whereas white light will make you feel more alert and awake. Checkout our article on reading lights.
Add some artwork
Use empty wall space to create a more homely and personable place to unwind in. Move your favourite existing pieces of artwork or find wall art ideas you love, whether that's copies of famous paintings, prints of family photographs, wall stickers or literary quotes and posters.
Buy some candles
An easy reading corner idea for adults includes a candle (or two). To re-create a bookshop atmosphere, try to find a musky scent - some candles are even made to replicate this aroma! As well as reading, another fun activity to do could be making your own candles.
Have a heat source
As the cooler autumn and winter nights draw in, having a place to keep warm is necessary. If you have a fireplace, why not sit by it as you tuck into a gripping novel (a safe distance away, of course). Or, get yourself an electric heater.
Wooden snack tray
Spruce up your bedroom reading corner with a wooden board to hold a drink and some tasty treats whilst you're reading. If you're a little accident prone, you can opt for a plastic or ceramic tray instead, which may be easier to clean any spillages off of.
Beanbag seat
There's nothing wrong with a good chair, but if you prefer to sit on the floor, a beanbag could be a good way to go They are easy to manoeuvre and you can lounge around until your heart's content.
Something to play tunes
You don't have to read in silence! Those that need some ambient music to relax will love the addition of a record player and some vinyl to create a soothing atmosphere. Sure, you could use your phone or radio or speaker, but a record player creates a screen-free space.
Keep notebooks nearby
If you're the type of person that enjoys making notes as they read, or researching authors, characters and influences for the books you're reading, having a notepad, pen and your laptop nearby can be the perfect way to remind yourself of what you want to know.
Bullet journal equipment
Similarly to a notebook, a reading journal or bullet tracker is the perfect way for major bookworms to track their reading, noting down reading habits, goals, to-be-read lists, books they've bought and their favourite bookish quotes. You can keep it as simple as you like or go over the top with fun colours, drawings, stickers and designs. After all, just like reading, journaling is a way to relieve stress.
Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby and Yours at Bauer Media. She's a bookworm who enjoys cooking and spending time with her many pets.