February 8, 2023
Grab your cup of coffee or tea, it's time to get lost in a good book!
Aside from providing you with a conducive environment to get lost in your favourite book, a reading nook can also serve as a peaceful spot for you to collect your thoughts after a hectic day. So, why wouldn’t you want one?
From an unused corner of your living room to a window seat, here are nine eye-catching reading nook ideas that are both cosy and beautiful, as well as some tips to help you create your own stylish reading nook in your home!
A window seat is one of the best spots to create a reading nook. It's cosy and offers, quite literally, a window to let your mind wander. So if your home has a small section or dead space with a large window (a bay window, perhaps?), don't let that space go to waste by turning it into a reading nook.
View this project by SQFT Space Design Management
Take for example this modern bench designed by SQFT Space Design Management, which makes for a compelling and luxurious space to curl up with your novel or a quick afternoon nap. The hollow space beneath can also be used as extra storage space when needed!
If you have a space in your home that connects to the outdoors (such as a patio, enclosed sunroom, or courtyard), turning the space into a reading nook is a great way to relax with a good book while enjoying an open-air feel or basking in the sun.
View this project by Wo Design Studio
Take style notes from this terrace house that comes with a unique indoor-outdoor seating area located next to the living room. It is outfitted with an indoor Zen garden with a skylight, making it ideal for growing a bamboo tree or potted plants. The area is also furnished with a comfortable white chair and a reading light, making it a super tranquil spot to enjoy a good read either during the day or night.
View this project by Wo Design Studio
Don't limit yourself to just chairs or benches. A rug and throw pillows can also be used to create a cosy floor reading area. Plus, loose pieces like these are not only budget-friendly, but they also provide flexibility for when you need to use the space for other activities, such as meditation or yoga.
View this project by Wo Design Studio
Wo Design Studio created this sun-splashed retreat with a skylight that allows plenty of natural light to flood the space. A wall shelf was also added to maximise storage while keeping clutter out of sight. It can be a relaxing place to unwind with a good book, magazine, or newspaper, as well as a peaceful place to take a short nap!
Alternatively, a tatami-style reading area on a raised platform works just as well as a level floor. If this is more your style, this tatami-style reading nook might be perfect for you. It has a raised platform decorated with a soft rug, a low table, and seat cushions.
View this project by IQI Concept Interior Design & Renovation
There is also a bookshelf integrated on one side of the table that provides a handy place to grab the next read. White blinds provide privacy while allowing indirect sunlight to enter through the windows, while the choice of neutral tones brings serenity to the readers who want to start their weekend with a good read.
If you think your reading area is too plain and understated, consider adding some wall decor.
View this project by Vault Design Lab Sdn Bhd
This reading nook-in-a-study by Vault Design Lab is nailing the look. The grey chaise may look simple, but the wallpaper with a lovely tropical motif helps to elevate the space. Finally, textured throws help the owners feel more cosy while chilling with a good book.
View this project by Vault Design Lab Sdn Bhd
Plants and books go together like peanut butter and jelly, and this cosy little space designed by Wuuu Studio is a perfect example. The homeowner placed plants of various sizes next to the comfortable armchair with a footstool, allowing them to appreciate the greenery while taking a break between turning pages.
View this project by Wuuu Studio
A large window that lets in light, on the other hand, allows the owners to enjoy the outdoor breeze or heat during the day for peaceful reading.
Hoping to foster a love of reading in your little ones? Create a cosy reading nook to encourage them to read.
View this project by Pocket Square
The design above adapts the essential elements of an adult reading room for a younger audience, with a tiered bookshelf for displaying books and a low-height bench for ample seating. Natural light is provided by a window with white blinds, while the faux-brick feature walls add pops of colour and make the space feel more laid-back.
View this project by Pocket Square
If you're craving a modern, simple look with just the reading essentials placed overhead to minimise distractions, then look no further than this unfussy reading nook.
View this project by Josh Thompson Interiors
The space is designed with a floating shelf in a zig-zag design, which adds a unique twist as well as functional value. Below the floating shelf is a bench with built-in storage, where other items like throw pillows or blankets can be stowed when not in use.
If you enjoy reading in your bedroom, but prefer to reserve your bed for sleeping, add an armchair on the opposite side of the room. Not only is this a secluded spot that will help you relax, but it’s also only a few steps away from the bed, should you care to drift off after reading a good novel.
View this project by Interior+ Design Sdn. Bhd.
Interior+ Design did just that in this bedroom. To divide the space, the designer added a wooden platform with cove lighting underneath and a simple grey chair flanked by a small floating shelf.
Your home, your rules
Whatever lofty ideas or nifty spaces you have in mind for your personal space - an interior designer can bring them to life! And we can help; simply request for a quote here, and get matched with four interior firms - based on budget and style.
When you engage an interior firm through our free recommendation service, you’ll enjoy attractive perks, such as the Qanvast Guarantee, a free initiative that safeguards up to RM50,000 of your renovation deposits.