Whether you're looking for reading nook ideas for small spaces or for a living room, these reading nook ideas for adults are guaranteed to make you want to stay in and read all day.
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Image Credit: Brittany - @Homeliving5
Nothing gets me more excited than books. Ever since I was little, I've always dreamed of having a home library or a cosy reading corner. Now that I'm an adult and have my own apartment, I can finally create a cosy reading nook. If you're anything like me, then you're sure to be spending a lot of time there. So you want it to be as cosy as possible.
In this post you're going to learn all about cosy reading nook ideas for adults. Whether it's reading nook ideas for under the stairs or reading nook ideas for small spaces.
Now that I have Pinterest and Instagram, I'm constantly stalking other book bloggers and bookstagrammers to see inspiration for cute reading nooks. I've rounded up all the best ideas here. Here are 15 insanely cosy reading nook ideas for adults that you need to try.
This post is all about cosy reading nook ideas for adults
What do you put in a reading nook?
Reading nook essentials
There are reading nooks for every style and budget. But what do you put in a reading nook? A few must have essentials include a good lighting source, book storage and comfortable seating. You could also add blankets, throws and candles to make your reading nook super cosy. I've linked a few different options below.
Best lighting options:
Best bookcase
Best seating:
What else do you think you should put in a reading book? Let me know in the comments below.
Best reading nook ideas for adults
1. Add an accent chair
Image Credit: GardenTeaCakesBooks
Recreate this look:
A comfy, oversized armchair is an easy way to create a little reading area in your home. Padded Armchairs are especially comfortable. I'm obsessed with this dark blue armchair - it makes such a statement. Plus I could easily spend all day curled up here.
I love how this reading nook has a side table and bookshelves both within easy reach. A side table is really practical and gives you somewhere to put a nice hot drink and maybe even a snack for long reading sessions.
2. Rattan Chair
Image Credit: Seema Singh - My Nested Abode - Instagram
Recreate this look:
How cute is this reading nook? No matter what size your reading area - a comfortable seating area is an absolute must.
I'm obsessed with this big rattan chair - perfect for curling up with a good book. The pouffe is a great addition. You can use it to rest a drink or put your feet up. You could also pair this with a blanket and cushion for added comfort.
3. A few natural touches
Image Credit: Marzena Marideko - Instagram
Recreate this look:
I could sit and read here for hours. The natural touches of the wood, stone lamp and wicker baskets make it look so warm and inviting. The fuzzy rug and added cushions also make it look super cosy.
The bookshelves slot really well into the corner. If you want a cohesive or neutral look for your bookshelves then consider turning your books around the other way. Turning the books around helps you stick to a more cohesive colour palette. Even if it isn't always the most practical.
4. Add some mood lighting
Recreate this look:
How cosy and relaxing does this reading nook look? I can never have enough candles. They instantly make any space look warm and inviting. No matter how big you're reading nook - a candle is guaranteed to make it look 10x more cosy.
I also love the different textures layered in this reading nook. Adding different textures is an easy way to instantly make your reading nook look super cozy. Faux fur, knitted blankets and velvet all give a room serious cosy vibes.
5. Dark academia vibes
Photo Credit: Brittany Homeliving5
Recreate this look:
I'm OBSESSED with the academia vibes in this photo. If you can paint your reading nook - then I highly recommend black or dark walls. It creates a cozy and intimate mood. Plus it makes any other colour really pop.
If you're looking to recreate this reading nook, I recommend checking out thrift stores or antique shops for secondhand decor items you can use. The ornaments in this photo, such as the painting and bust, really add to the vibe.Plus it's a great way to add personality to your reading nook if you're on a budget!
6. Try some wall art
Photo credit: Emily - Midwestbookqueen
Recreate this look:
This idea is one of my personal favourites. Wall art is a great way to add some personality to any space. The butterfly prints in this photo really elevate the reading nook.
If you're looking to include some wall art you can 100% do this on a budget. And it works in reading nooks of any size. Etsy has loads of cute prints. Including digital downloads which are incredibly good value for money.
7. A hanging egg chair
Recreate this look:
This reading nook idea is one of my personal favourites. And I could honestly spend hours reading here in the summer. If you have the budget, then a hanging egg chair is a great addition to any reading space. They're super comfortable. And they really make a statement.
The greenery in this reading nook also makes it look so pretty. Whether it's outdoors or indoors, plants are a great way to add some colour to your reading area. But don't worry - if you're not green fingered you can get a similar look with fake plants.
8. Try Rainbow Shelves
Recreate this look:
If you have enough books then try some rainbow bookshelves. I am OBSESSED with these rainbow bookshelves. And I love how the candles match the books.
If you're on Bookstagram or Booktok then rainbow bookshelves make the perfect backdrop. They look undeniably beautiful and make such a focal point in the room. They make a room look so bright and cheerful.
9. Layer up cushions and blankets
Image Credit: Hygge Sundays
Recreate this look:
On a cold winter’s day, there’s something really comforting about curling up under a blanket with a good book. You can get some incredibly cosy blanket’s online now – weighted and sherpa lined. The cushions and blankets layered up in this reading nook look insanely cozy.
I also love the little tray of essentials. No matter what size your reading nook - this is something everyone can try. Layer up a few cute decor pieces and reading essentials on a cute tray. It looks adorable and still leaves you with plenty of space.
10. Add some fairy lights
Photo credit: Shelby Grace - Graced by Books
Recreate this look:
Are you on a tight budget? If so, this reading nook idea is perfect for you. It can be easily recreated with items you probably already own. Floor cushions are a great option if you only have a small space.
I'm also obsessed with the string lights in this reading nook. String lights are another easy way to create a warm and cosy atmosphere. They're also a cheap way to add a whimsical touch to photos. You can get cheap fairy lights at lots of places on the high street. Or for a very reasonable price online.
11. Create a collage
Photo Credit : Bex - Mummy is Reading
Recreate this look:
Funko pops are also a great way to decorate your bookshelves. They insanely adorable decorating bookshelves. They're a great way to add a personal touch. And they're a great way to show your love for a particular fandom.
You can even get customised Funko Pops on Etsy based on your favourite books. I'm obsessed with this Hunt Athalar Funko Pop and also this Kaz Brekker Funko Pop
12. Consider a day bed
Recreate this look:
I love how easy this look is to recreate. But it looks lovely. If you have the space, add a day bed next to your reading area. This allows you to stretch out and get comfy. Especially when it's paired with a fluffy blanket and cushions.
The bookshelves are also really cute. Arranging your books in different ways is an easy way to add interest to your bookshelves! Especially if you have lots of books.
Stacking your books horizontally makes the perfect pedestal for a cute ornament such as a candle. Facing the book forwards also means you can show off any pretty book covers you have.
13. Add some greenery
Photo credit: Mina - This_hybrid_Reads
Recreate this look:
This reading nook looks so warm and inviting! Adding a touch of greenery is an easy way to bring the outdoors in. To achieve this look simply scatter some succulents or house plants in your reading area.
Don't worry - if you're not green fingered you can get a similar look with fake plants.
The plants pair perfectly with the wooden shelves. The wood adds so much warmth to the space. It's an easy to way add some personality in your living room. You can also stack books next to the bookshelves for an even cosier look.
This post was all about reading nook ideas for adults
If you're looking for even more reading nook ideas for adults - you can check out this board on Pinterest full of cosy reading nook inspiration.
