How to Create Cozy Reading Nooks

It All Starts with the Perfect Chair

When I think of my favorite spots to read, I usually imagine myself curled up on a comfy chair. For me, the ideal reading chair is one I can sink into that still provides support. I want it to feel soft and supportive at the same time, similar to the way I feel about a good hug. I have also always been a person whose environment affects them. My house is generally extremely clean. It’s not because I love to clean (I do) or because I feel the need to impress anyone. It’s because I can’t think clearly when I am surrounded by mess. All my brain can focus on is the mess. It’s probably related to my perfectionism. I tend to quickly spot flaws when I look at things. The one exception for me is people. I usually see the best in people…so no need to hide your flaws over here. It’s all part of your charm!

Anyway, back to chairs. Because I care about my environment and because every person and room has a different style, I’m including some reading chair inspiration that matches different aesthetics. I hope one of them will inspire you!

This chair is so stylish and cozy looking. I love the way it feels modern and relaxed at the same time. This is the LINSY accent chair and ottoman.

This Onbrill Oversized Accent Chair just looks like the coziest place to curl and up and read with my kids. Some of my favorite moments are when we are all curled up together enjoying great books, and this chair looks so soft and cozy to me. Perfect for snuggles! If I had a bigger space or was trying to fill a cozy corner, this might be the perfect fit.

Coziness That Doubles as Design

It’s more than just the chair that makes a reading corner feel cozy. I love a throw blanket any time of year. Even when it’s hot outside, there’s just something special about feeling curled up on a big, supportive chair under a soft, cozy throw. Here are some great options, whether you are looking for something neutral or to add a pop of color and design to your space.

This Snuggle Sac throw blanket looks so buttery and soft, and it comes in 35 different colors and patterns.

This Coze Cube throw blanket looks lightweight and warm at the same time. It comes in 13 different colors.

If you’re looking for something bolder or a pop of color, these Maison d’Hermine blankets come in 33 different colors and styles.

Let There Be (Soft) Light

Our living room has no overhead lighting. When we first moved in, I thought it was something I would change immediately, but over time I’ve come to love the way it makes the room feel cozier. There are windows on three sides, letting in plenty of sunlight throughout the day. Early in the morning or late in the evenings, I turn on multiple lamps. Because I don’t have the option of turning on overhead lights, the room always has a cozy glow. It truly makes it the perfect place to curl up with a good book or enjoy relaxed conversation.

I’ve been eyeing these lamps for a while. I love the way they look rustic but have hidden charging ports. To me, that is the perfect balance between design and function.

These modern farmhouse lamps are chic and relaxed. I live in a colonial, so certain aspects of farmhouse decor are always appealing to me.

I’ve always loved clean, coastal design, too. These lamps give off a fresh, clean, airy vibe.

Don’t Neglect the View

Imagine yourself sitting in your perfect, cozy reading chair. You have your new (or old favorite) throw blanket covering your legs, and your lamp is giving off that perfect mood-setting glow. You hear something, so you look up from your book…and you are staring at a wall of your kids’ toys or your husband’s mounted fish. It kind of ruins the ambiance, don’t you think?

My favorite reading corners throughout my house do not neglect my view when I look up beyond what I am reading. I truly believe the view matters, even if most of the time you will ideally be so entranced in what you’re reading that you couldn’t possibly lift your eyes from the page. So my last unsolicited design tip is to make sure you place your cozy corner in a spot where you can look up to find something else that brings you joy. Maybe it’s a favorite painting. Maybe it’s a vase of fresh flowers on your ottoman. Whatever it is, I hope it reminds you of the peaceful, happy home you are building where readers and imaginations grow.