How to Create the Perfect Reading Room

Pick Your Spot

Do you have a favorite reading spot? Some people love to kick back on the couch, and others enjoy small nooks they can crawl into. Your current reading habits will tell you a lot about what you should create in your new reading space. Pick the room you’re going to overhaul into your reading wonderland, then plan your layout and design.

We suggest making a list of everything you want to put in your reading room before you get started. You’ll need bookshelves, of course, comfortable seating, and a few end tables or a coffee table at the very least. Then you can get creative. What added features do you want? A stereo with speakers or headphones will level up your audiobook experience. An e-reader or book stand will give you the freedom to move around as you get lost in an adventure. Some readers enjoy old-world elements like metal ladders to reach the tip-top shelves. Let yourself dream and explore your options!

Design Your Favorite Story

Design can be something simple and chic, like neutral colors with vibrant pops of accent hues, or you can unleash your creativity and tell your own story. Vinyl decals are easy to apply and remove, and these designs often feature quotes and illustrations from novels. If you’re not renting your space, freshen up your wall paint with a warm neutral, or go for a bold hue like a rich teal or crimson.

For art, you can make your own book-themed designs on canvas with stencils and spray paint, or you can upcycle vintage books into multifunctional decor. Find accessories that remind you of your favorite stories, and fill the room with tokens of your personality to make it truly yours.

Play With Lighting

Once you establish your theme and shop for furniture, have some fun with the layout of your room. Set bookshelves against walls, wherever they fit best. Utilize nooks and small spaces for floor pillows and shorter bookshelves.

An overcast day is perfect for indoor reading, so set up your sofa and chairs near the window to enjoy that lovely natural light. When it’s raining, you’ll have an atmospheric soundtrack to accompany your tale, and when the sun shines, it will warm the space and offer the best reading light possible.

If you’re a night owl, you’ll want to set up some floor lamps around the room to create a soft glow. Position an end table or coffee table near your seating arrangement for a direct reading lamp. You can choose between stationary lamps and adjustable reading lamps, which are ideal for readers who change positions throughout reading sessions.

The most important part about creating your reading room is to design it specifically for you and your family. It should be unique and cozy. Stock your reading area with coffee, tea, and snacks, and lose yourself in a great book!