22 Reading Nook in Bedroom Ideas
So, you want a reading nook in your bedroom—aka your own little escape hatch from reality.
Smart move! Because let’s be real: nothing feels better than curling up with a good book, a soft blanket, and a cup of something warm while pretending the outside world doesn’t exist for a while. 🙂
I’ve been obsessed with the idea of bedroom reading nooks for years.
If you’ve ever thought, “Where do I even start with this?”—don’t worry, I’ve got you.
Let’s walk through 22 creative, cozy, and downright genius reading nook ideas for your bedroom that will turn even the smallest corner into your personal story sanctuary.
1. Corner Chair Haven
Got an awkward corner in your bedroom? Perfect. Slide in a comfy armchair and boom—you’ve got yourself a nook.
Add a small side table for your tea (or wine, no judgment) and a floor lamp for late-night reading.
2. Window Seat Magic
Window seats are basically cheat codes for instant coziness. Add a built-in bench or even a sturdy storage chest under the window.
Pile it with cushions and throws, and you’ll never want to leave. Ever wondered why window seats feel so dreamy? Natural light + a framed view = instant mood boost.
3. Canopy Vibes
Want a little drama? Hang a light canopy over your chair or mattress corner. Suddenly, you’re not just reading—you’re in your own private book cave.
Honestly, this is the grown-up version of the blanket fort we all built as kids.
4. Floating Shelf Setup
If you don’t have space for a big chair, mount a floating shelf desk under a window, pair it with a cushioned stool, and stash your books right there.
Minimalist but still super functional.
5. Built-In Book Wall
If you’re lucky enough to have the space (and budget), built-ins are a dream. Imagine: floor-to-ceiling bookshelves hugging a cozy bench.
It’s like living inside a library but with better pillows.
6. Oversized Bean Bag
Let’s be honest: sometimes a bean bag is all you need. A giant bean bag or floor cushion piled with blankets = instant casual nook. Bonus: it doubles as nap territory.
7. Hanging Chair Escape
Ever sat in a hanging rattan chair with a book? Life-changing. It gives you that playful, floating feeling while still being practical.
Just make sure you install it properly—you don’t want your “cozy nook” turning into an accidental gymnastic routine.
8. Under-the-Stairs Corner (Loft Bedroom Hack)
If your bedroom is in a loft or attic with stairs, use the awkward under-stair space. Add shelves, a cushion, and soft lighting. Trust me, these little nooks feel magical.
9. Reading Nook on the Bed
No rule says your nook can’t be… your bed.
Stack a ridiculous amount of pillows against the headboard, toss on a chunky knit blanket, and add a tray for snacks. Boom—reading nook, lazy edition.
10. Bay Window Bliss
Bay windows are chef’s kiss for reading spots. A built-in bench with cushions makes it feel like you’re inside a storybook cottage.
Add some sheer curtains for extra softness.
11. Ladder Shelf Nook
Place a ladder shelf behind your chair to store your favorite reads within reach. It feels stylish without taking up much space, plus it makes your nook look intentional.
12. Scandinavian Minimalist
Keep it simple: a clean-lined chair, neutral tones, one blanket, and a sleek floor lamp. Sometimes less is more, especially if you like that calm, clutter-free vibe.
13. Bold & Colorful
On the flip side, if you’re a maximalist, go nuts. Bright pillows, patterned throws, and funky artwork can make your reading nook an explosion of personality.
Ever thought of a neon “Read More” sign? Yeah, do it.
14. Tucked-Behind-Curtains Spot
Install a curtain rod to create a mini “room within your room.” Pull the curtains closed when you want solitude. This is peak cozy introvert energy.
15. Fireplace Adjacency
If your bedroom has a fireplace, you already won. Pull up a chair near the hearth, and you’ve got the ultimate old-world reading nook.
Add a glass of red wine and a dog at your feet, and congratulations—you’re basically in a novel.
16. Boho Escape
Think floor cushions, hanging macramé, plants galore, and a woven rug.
This type of nook feels laid-back and artsy, like you’re one dreamcatcher away from opening a poetry café.
17. Rustic Cabin Vibes
Add a plaid blanket, leather chair, and wood accents. If your bedroom has exposed beams or shiplap, lean into it.
This nook says: “I chop my own firewood and then read Tolstoy by lantern.”
18. Tiny-Space Bedside Nook
If you’re short on space, swap your bedside table for a slim book tower or shelf with a lamp. You’re technically still in bed, but the vibe feels dedicated and cozy.
19. Lofted Platform Reading Spot
If your ceilings are tall, consider a lofted platform bed with space underneath. Use that under-space for a reading nook with cushions and lights.
It feels like your secret clubhouse.
20. Plant-Filled Oasis
Surround your chair with plants—big leafy ones, hanging vines, maybe even a terrarium. Reading in a jungle corner feels grounding and peaceful.
Plus, plants = built-in air purifiers. Win-win.
21. Modern Glam
Velvet chair, gold floor lamp, side table with marble top. A glam nook makes reading feel like an event.
Pair with a scented candle and suddenly you’re not just reading—you’re living luxuriously.
22. DIY Closet Nook
Empty closet? Don’t waste it on clutter. Rip out the rods, add a bench, shelves, and fairy lights. Suddenly, you’ve got a tucked-away nook that feels like a secret room.
Narnia, but with better lighting.
Extra Tips to Nail the Perfect Reading Nook
- Lighting is everything. Floor lamps, sconces, fairy lights, or natural light—you need it all.
- Blankets and pillows = coziness. Don’t skimp. You’ll thank me later.
- Surfaces matter. Always keep a side table or shelf for drinks, snacks, or—let’s be honest—your phone.
- Personalize. Add art, trinkets, or even your favorite quote on the wall. Your nook should feel yours.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, a reading nook in your bedroom doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive.
Whether you carve out a full-on built-in book bench or just toss some pillows in a corner, it’s about creating a little space that whispers, “Come chill here for a while.”
Personally, my nook is a window corner with a thrifted armchair, a plant, and a floor lamp I’ve had since college. Is it Instagram-worthy? Probably not.
But does it make me want to stay up till 2 a.m. reading “just one more chapter”? Absolutely.
