There’s something magical about having a dedicated place to relax in a good book. Whether you change your troublesome corners, empty closets or sunny windows, the well-designed reading corner can instantly add comfort, personality and purpose to your home. This Redfin article explains how to create a stylish and functional reading corner, whether you are climbing a Portland home or designing a dream corner in Savannah, Georgia.
Why create a reading corner?
The reading corner offers more than a cozy place to relax. It creates intentional space for quiet time in a fast-paced world. You can also do that:
Encourage mindfulness and screen-free time Add visual interest and layered design to your room boost property appeal to your room’s boost property appeal, which maximizes your home’s underused space (think: staging perks or Instagram-worthy interior)
Inspire your imagination in the corner of your book
“The corner of reading tells children and adults that books are important,” your reading tutor says. “Whether it’s a bean bag under the window or a tent full of picture books, the key is to create a space that will make you feel comforted, screen-free, and special. That’s how you can build a lifelong reader.”
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Step 1: Choose the perfect location
No dedicated libraries or spare rooms are required. You can chop in every corner:
The bedroom or living room corner of the bay window or window seating is round the corner of the wardrobe or alcove below the stairs.
Choose a natural quiet or private location and get natural light if possible.
Use your overlooked space to your advantage
“The possibilities in the corner of the reading are endless,” says Fusion Living Living. “Even narrow window shelves and nasty bedroom corners can be transformed into a cozy space. That is to subtly use spots that could otherwise be unused and turn emptiness into an end.”
Convert troublesome corners into dream corners
“The alcove or strangely shaped spot in your home can become your favorite spot,” says 413 Real Estate. “Add a comfortable seat with storage, string lights and some pillows. With the right touch, that unused corner will be a cozy reading retreat.”
Turn dormer and corners into retreats
“The dormers and often overlooked corners of stairs make them perfect for purposeful reading spaces,” says Book Smart Street Smart. “We’ve added a ship wrap, built a bench with storage, equipped with luxurious decorations, and you can also use a bookshelves to assemble corners into a larger room.
Don’t be too attached to one place
“My ideal reading corner changes seasons,” says the conscious film. “In winter, I curl up by the fire with stuffed animals and tea, and when the sun comes out, I move to a picnic blanket in my garden or a seat in a bright window. It’s not about the place, it’s all about the feeling, comfort and a great story all come together.”
Step 2: Prioritize comfort
The corner of your reading should feel engaging and relaxing. Consider these factors:
Seats: It works with cushioned benches, oversized chairs, bean bags, or even piles of pillows on the floor. Add a throw blanket and accent session to make it cozy. Lighting: A good reading lamp will cover natural light. Wall sconces, plug-in pendants, or clip-on lights work well in small spaces. Textile: Rugs, curtains, and luxurious fabrics help to absorb sounds and add warmth.
Incorporates lights that are gentle on the eyes
“Reading comfort depends on more than a comfortable chair,” explains Kaleidosco Preving. “Pick a place with lots of natural light and use a light lamp that is bright enough to prevent tension when reading at night.
Choose comfort and support in every piece
“A cozy chair with a tall back and Ottoman Empire can turn a basic corner into space for true relaxation,” says Sarah Bernard’s design. “Use floating shelves to save space on the floor and turn your book into art, and don’t forget to check the shelf weight limit.
Step 3: Make it functional
Aesthetics are important, but ease of use is important. addition:
Bookshelf or basket to read your favorite readings, if you’re a fan of e-readers, to hold an organized side table or floating shelf for your mug, glass or candle outlet or charging pad
Makes your scent and storage smarter
“I love using wax warmers in the corner of my reading. It’s safer than candles, but still makes the space smell amazing,” says BRI, of BRI’s book Nook. “Good lighting is a must. I leave everything organized in foldable bins of books and accessories. It’s especially great for small spaces.”
Design personalized escapes
“Pick a quiet, naturally lit corner and secure it with a cozy chair, soft throw and warm lamp,” Studio Nining recommends. “Works with floating shelves and side tables and adds a personal touch like colors and decorations that will make you feel like you.”
Step 4: Add your personality
The corner of the reading should reflect your preferences. try:
Mini gallery walls with artwork or framed books will soften the space by citing plants and improve the quality of the air.
Enjoy the comfort with scent and sound
“Start with a comfortable chair and a good lamp and turn the forgotten corner into the corner of your dreams,” he lives outside the stack. “Covered with fragrant candles (my favorite is Cedar and sandalwood), and enjoy the soft texture of pillows and blankets. Don’t underestimate the mellow jazz power to perfect the atmosphere.”
Have a luxurious modern escape
“The reading corner is one of the little luxury of life and everyone deserves it,” says Roomlift. “We recommend deep chairs for your tea or phone, soft lighting and side tables. The plants are our favorite last touch. They lift the mood and make your space feel lively.
Infuse texture and warmth through design
“I always start with handmade kilim rugs for texture,” says Mumo Toronto. “Then layer stuffed chairs, soft throws, floating shelf to keep things organized. The final touch? There’s a small side table to hang the wall and hold coffee and candles.
Let me talk to you in your corner
“I believe that the book’s nook should be calm and appealing. It’s almost like stepping into a story,” Anablin says. “Each of our designs are inspired by real travel memories like Omoid Yokocho’s book Noukkit, which captures the warm charm of Tokyo’s nostalgic alleys. We hope that every builder has a sense of moment and comfort.
How to build a reading corner even with minimal space
Even tight spaces can hold corners of reading:
Small apartment: Use the corner of the bed in a lamp studio with bolster pillows: Separate corners in thin curtains or bookcases in split children’s room: add floor canopy and oversized stuffed animals
Design small spaces for big impact
“We don’t need a lot of space to build a comfortable reading corner,” says the Revalidge home. “Even quiet corners can feel special with the cubby bench and some smart storage pieces. The Nook collection of children’s books focuses on maximizing space while keeping the setup fun and functional.”
Create a magical corner for kids
“Everyone personalized reading can turn even the most reluctant readers into book lovers,” says Mamabear Books. “If you’re a child, try a bag of beans in the hallway alcove, try a sparkling light under the stairs, or a colorful bottle with themed decorations. The book is fun when the space is made and tailored.”
