11 Must-Haves to Create a Cozy Reading Nook

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Cozy reading nook

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Reading nooks are great spots to rest, catch up on a good book, or just spend a few hours relaxing. Not sure what exactly you should buy to create a cozy reading nook of your own?

"There are a handful of reading nook necessities whether you have a full reading room, library, or small corner," says designer Christina Simon of Ashby Collective. For example, "when furniture sits closer to the ground it entices you to relax and take your time in a space."

Read up on the best items to get for a stay-all-day reading nook below.

Meet the Expert

Ruggable Cozy Chic Plush Rug Bundle

Cozy rug bundle

Ruggable

The foundation for any welcoming space is a soft rug. This white-and-black geometric rug bundle from Ruggable is smooth on the feet, and great for pets, kids, and more as it can easily be cleaned. Layer both on top of one another for an extra-cozy space.

Latitude Run Deshaune Boucle Swivel Barrel Accent Chair

Latitude Run Deshaune Boucle Swivel Barrel Accent Chair

Wayfair

A chair is by far the most importance piece when it comes to building a reading nook. A curved swivel chair in a cream hue is a classic that works with any aesthetic.

"I'd start with a comfortable, fully upholstered chair with an ottoman," says Gideon Mendelson, founder and creative director at Mendelson Group.

While style is always a consideration, a reading nook chair should ultimately be extremely comfortable.

"If you select something a little wider than 30 inches, this allows you to adjust your posture while you unwind," Simon says. "Most important, however, is the fabric of the chair, something that is soft to the touch and ideally a little luxurious that will keep you nested for hours."

DEWENWILS Bedside Table Lamp, Pack of 2

Pack of 2 lamps

Amazon

Light up your reading nook with a tripod-style light. This fabric-and-wood light will illuminate all of your pages and provide an intimate atmosphere, and it comes in a two-pack. Also consider thrifting a vintage find or mix and match metals.

Article Agotu Side Table

Article side table

Article

A reading nook always needs a side table, especially one this luxe, with space for a lamp, mug, or book storage.

"Decide the purpose of your side table before you set out looking," says Simon. "If it is a small space, a heavy stone monolithic side table can work as you don’t have a lot of room to move it around and they can be quite beautiful and dramatic. That said, it is nice to have a table you can easily slide toward or away from yourself. The top of every side table needs to accommodate all of the essential items you’ll be using it for."

Pottery Barn Waffle Weave Blanket

Waffle weave blanket

Pottery Barn

Whether you pick a light-weight, plush, or warming blanket, it's a must for any reading nook. This Pottery Barn waffle weave blanket comes in a range of neutral color options to add depth and texture to your space.

Opalhouse Oversize Velvet Round Floor Pillow

Opalhouse Oversize Velvet Round Floor Pillow

Target

Cozy pillows and reading nooks are a great match. These brightly colored Target floor cushions designed for its furniture collection, Opalhouse, come in dusky blue and rose. Velvet fabric with button detailing makes them an eye-catching pick for any space.

Etsy Just One More Chapter Mug

One more chapter mug

Etsy

A warm mug of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea is a welcomed treat when curled up with your favorite book. For all the book-lovers, this One More Chapter mug from Etsy is the perfect choice.

Threshold Round Base Glass Candle with Wooden Wick Ginger Lily & Jasmine Yellow

Ginger lily and jasmine candle

Target

Enhancing a space includes considering aroma, so make your reading nook a place you want to be in with your favorite scent. This paraffin and soy wax candle will elevate your space with ginger, jasmine, and lily.

AllModern Gwyneth Etagere Bookcase

Etagere bookcase

AllModern

A reading nook without a bookshelf isn't a reading nook. Choose a sleek design or one that matches your personal style with plenty of room for everything on your reading list.

"We love to create layers with bookshelves, so there are a couple of things to look for," notes Simon. "Ideally the depth of the shelf is at least 12 inches and the height is 15 inches. This means it can accommodate most coffee table books standing upright. Adding personal items or even photos to a bookshelf not only creates layers but a sense of discovery that makes the books feel less heavy and the room more light."

Hearth & Hand With Magnolia 55" Faux Gypsophila Leaf Tree

Faux tree

Target

Plants are a designer-favorite detail in any space. They enliven and brighten up any room. While fresh plants are nice, faux plants are low-maintenance and provide a similar effect.

The Container Store Lotus Bamboo Storage Bench

Lotus Bamboo Storage Bench

The Container Store

Matching your ottoman to your reading nook chair is nice but not necessary. Prop your feet up on this wood storage bench from The Container Store for a spot that works double-duty. Part footrest, part concealed storage, it's optimal for hiding away any unwanted reading room clutter.

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