If you’ve ever scrolled through social media and been stopped in your tracks by a photo of a dreamy reading nook, why not use it as inspiration to create a spot of your own?
Whether your ideal space includes book-lined shelves that are full-to-bursting or a sleek, more minimalist style with a single inviting chair placed near a window, there are lots of ways to create the perfect reader’s retreat.
These elements can help you make your vision a reality. It’s all in the styling—and it’s your space, so make sure it reflects you.
A comfy armchair
Nothing beckons you to take a break and crack open a good book quite like a solitary, cushioned armchair with a reading lamp at its side. Once you have a set-up like this of your own, it’s a luxury you’ll never want to be without again.
The over-the-top coziness of the Wildau accent chair will charm anyone who is into style; it makes a bold statement with its Scandinavian design, rich faux fur and metal base.
Tempted by a recliner? The Ballinasloe recliner is a contemporary version of this long-time favourite, done in a platinum grey upholstery. This tufted, plush piece has a footrest, a gentle rocking motion and requires just one pull to recline fully; it is likely to become a family-favourite quickly.
The Caretti oversized chair allows you to curl your legs up under you so you can read comfortably for hours. Covered in a soft chenille microfiber, with plush cushions and wide-track arms, this is a truly luxurious and generous piece. If you have the space, you won’t regret adding the accompanying ottoman.
A good reading lamp
You’ll need a good source of lighting nearby to illuminate those pages, minimize eye strain and allow you to keep reading late into the night. The Anemoon floor lamp lets you customize the height of the lamp; simply turn the pair of knobs on the sculptural metal base. It has a black metal finish and a drum shade with an adjustable arm.
The Marilee floor lamp has an antique brass finish, which adds sparkle and warmth to its surroundings. The clear glass shade ensures you’ll always have great lighting by your side. The Bernadate floor lamp has another look entirely; it has a whitewash finish, a detailed knob design, a drum shade and a casual chicness that brightens any room. The three-way switch is a handy feature that allows for different levels of lighting throughout the day.
A small accent table
You’ll need a place to rest your mug of coffee or tea during your marathon reading sessions but there’s no need for a big, bulky piece of furniture. A small, light accent table will do the trick; it’s a versatile piece that can hold your books, your drink and even a snack or two.
The Gerdanet end table has a shelf you can tuck your books into between sessions. It has an urban style with a replicated butcher block finish and a metal base that keeps the piece looking light and airy. The Trailbend accent table is a contemporary brown and gunmetal mix that is definitely a conversation piece. It has a very sleek, two-toned design.
Keep the Briarsboro accent tables together, as a nesting set of two, or separate them to use with different pieces of furniture. These have a small footprint, tuck neatly together and are great to look at. The round design is contemporary, as are the gray-washed tops and black-finished metal bases.
A throw blanket
The final step in creating your perfect cozy reading nook is finding a throw blanket to keep you warm. The Noemi throw blanket has an Aztec-inspired artisan design, soft muted hues and a high-quality tweed weave. This gray and white woven geometric design feels plush to the touch and has a lovely cord fringe.
The Rozelle throw blanket, in a bright, clean white, has a subtle silver metallic trim and fringed ends. This beautifully woven piece looks as good wrapped around you as it does strewn casually over your reading chair. If you’re the type who runs cold, the Raegan throw blanket is the one for you. The gray/tan mix of this faux fur throw complements any décor style and the piece is irresistibly soft.
Ashley HomeStore North offers a wide range of furniture pieces, artwork, decorative accents and storage solutions for every room in your home. Looking for more great design ideas? Follow the store on Instagram.