A simple, soul-soothing guide to carving out a reading retreat—whether you have a whole room or just a corner.
There’s something wildly underrated about having a dedicated reading nook. It’s a small, intentional space that whispers, “You can rest here.” A place to slow down, unplug, and sink into a story or another world.
Whether you’re working with a window seat, a corner of the bedroom, or just a spare armchair in the living room, you can create a cozy, elevated reading nook that fits your space, your style, and your life. And no—you don’t need built-ins or an interior design degree to make it beautiful. Let’s break down how to design the perfect reading nook, plus a few of my favorite Amazon finds (affiliate links included!) to help you build it without overthinking it.
Step 1: Pick Your Perfect Spot
You don’t need a bay window and a built-in bench (though lucky you if you’ve got that!).
A cozy reading nook can live in:
- A bedroom corner
- An unused stair landing
- An awkward alcove
- Even a wide hallway
What matters most: A sense of separation. You want it to feel like its own little world—even if it’s just a chair and a lamp.
Step 2: Choose a Chair You’ll Actually Want to Sit In
This is the anchor piece. Go for something deep, cushioned, and curl-up-worthy. Think oversized armchairs, swivel barrel chairs, or even a cushioned accent chair with an ottoman
.🛒 Amazon Pick: Big Comfy Reading Chair and Ottoman Set
Bonus points: Choose a chair with arms so you can rest your book—or your tea—comfortably.
Step 3: Add a Soft Throw + Cushions
Pillows and throws are what take a chair from functional to full-on sanctuary. Choose materials that feel good against your skin and layer at least one blanket for chilly mornings or evenings.
🛒 Amazon Pick: Chunky Cable Knit Throw Blanket Lightweight Burnt Orange 100% Organic Cotton
Color tip: Go with warm neutrals, earth tones, or muted shades that make you feel calm, not stimulated.
Step 4: Light It Just Right
Overhead lighting won’t cut it here. You want a warm, focused light that doesn’t strain your eyes and makes the space feel calm and glowy
.🛒 Amazon Pick: Dimmable Floor Lamp
Look for:
- Adjustable necks
- Warm white bulbs (2700K–3000K)
- A built-in dimmer, if possible
Step 5: Include a Surface for the Little Things
Even in a small nook, you’ll want somewhere to place your tea, book stack, or glasses. Think: a small side table, a nesting stool, or even a stack of vintage books for a DIY table vibe.
🛒 Amazon Pick: Cool Nesting Side Tables
Step 6: Add a Book Stack or Basket
Keep your current reads in reach. If you’re working with limited space, use a woven basket or canvas bin. Have more room? Add a mini bookcase or a wall-mounted shelf.
🛒 Amazon Pick: Wicker Magazine Basket
Aesthetic tip: Try arranging your books by color for a low-effort, high-impact visual moment.
Step 7: Bring in Something Living
Even the coziest space can feel flat without a touch of life. A small plant adds softness, texture, and that ever-hygge sense of nature indoors.
🛒 Amazon Pick: Indoor Potted Fake Plant with Rustic Black Clay Planter
If you’re team “no green thumb”: Faux plants totally count—just aim for a realistic texture and natural pot like the one listed above.
Step 8: Make It Personal
The best reading nooks feel a little bit like you. Add a candle, a framed photo, a stack of journals, or a quote that grounds you.
🛒 Amazon Pick: Rustic Wooden Picture Frame with Walnut Wood Base
This is your space. It should feel like a retreat and a reflection.
Step 9: Soundscaping the Vibe
This one’s optional—but if you really want to lean into the experience, play with sound. Add a small Bluetooth speaker to play lo-fi beats, ambient forest sounds, or jazz during your wind-down time.
🛒 Amazon Pick: Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker
📚 Cozy Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Your reading nook doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to feel like you. Start with one chair and one light. Add in the rest as you go. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s peace. And if you create one? I’d love to see it. Tag @hiddenholms or drop a comment with a photo of your nook. Let’s build a community of cozy, one corner at a time.
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. That means if you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only share products I genuinely love and think you will, too. Images used on this site are for illustrative purposes only. Stock photos represent general home aesthetics, while any real estate listing images are sourced from publicly available platforms and used under fair use guidelines. All rights to the original images remain with their respective copyright owners.
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