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Reading nook: 10 ideas to create a refuge at home

With just a few elements, it is possible to create a reading nook that encourages the habit, contributes to relaxation, and promotes well-being.

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Jun 26, 2025, 7:00 AM

08 min de leitura
Romário Rodrigues Architects - Cosentino House - the Share. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2025.

Romário Rodrigues Architects - Cosentino House - the Share. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio)

In times of accelerated routines and excessive digital stimuli, creating a reading nook at home is also a gesture of self-care. Having a personal refuge to slow down and dive into good books contributes to well-being and enhances the home experience. And the best part: you don’t need a lot of space for that!
Corner of Stories and Colors - Daniela Funari Architecture. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2025.

Recanto de Histórias e Cores - Daniela Funari Arquitetura. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Bia Nauiack/CASACOR)

A quiet, well-lit corner with comfortable furniture can be transformed into an inspiring reading nook. Below, we’ve gathered seven tips for those who want to set up their own — whether in a bedroom, living room, or even under the stairs.
Living from the Source, by Paola Ribeiro. Projects of CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2022.

Paola Ribeiro - Living da Fonte. Um grande living. Um ambiente pensado para abrigar encontros, refeições, momentos de leitura, descanso e lazer. Seguindo a paleta de cores da sala, que tem teto trabalhado com molduras e sancas, o espaço traz a Trilha Verde, da Coral (um tom ciano) em painéis, treliças e tapetes. Mas também muito branco nos tecidos, móveis e objetos de estilo contemporâneo, como a estante de Naoto Fukasawa. Uma forma de trazer leveza ao espaço e integrá-lo ainda mais ao Pátio da Fonte, logo em frente. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

1. Choose the ideal location in the house


Before thinking about decoration, identify the most suitable spot for the reading nook. It could be an underutilized space in the bedroom, a closed balcony, or a corner in the living room. The most important thing is that it is quiet, has good ventilation, and receives natural light whenever possible. If natural light is not available, a well-placed lamp can solve the problem.
Living room of the apartment that is a project of BMA Studio

Projeto de Bruno Moraes. (Guilherme Pucci/Divulgação)

2. Invest in a good armchair


Comfort is a key element of a good reading nook. Choose a chair or armchair with a high back and armrests. Models with a footstool or chaise provide even more coziness. The important thing is to ensure a relaxed position that allows for long periods of reading without discomfort. If there is more space, a two-seater sofa or a lounge chair can also work well.
Dining Room - Ana Cunha. CASACOR Pernambuco Project 2018.

Sala de Jantar - Ana Cunha. Projeto CASACOR Pernambuco 2018. (Felipe Araújo/CASACOR)

3. Pay attention to lighting


A well-positioned light is essential to avoid straining your eyes during reading. Articulated floor lamps or wall sconces with direction are great options. The warm light is the most recommended, as it creates a cozy atmosphere and favors concentration. Besides the main light, including indirect light sources — such as LED strips or lamps — helps to build a relaxing atmosphere for reading moments.
Romário Rodrigues - Pages of Time. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2024.

Romário Rodrigues - Páginas do Tempo. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2024. (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

4. Have a support surface


A side support is essential to make the use of the space more practical. Small tables or even a low bench can serve as a support for your coffee cup, glasses, or the current book. If the project is more compact, it’s a good idea to invest in models with drawers or built-in niches.
Green shelf is the protagonist of an apartment with a house-like feel. Project by Carmen Zaccaro. In the photo, reading nook with green shelf.

Apartamento na Gávea RJ assinado pela arquiteta Carmen Zaccaro. (Juliano Colodeti, do MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)

5. Incorporate shelves and bookcases


The organization of books is an important part of the project. If the space allows, invest in shelves with various niches that not only store but also decorate. In small projects, thin shelves or floating panels already serve this function well. Mix books with decorative objects, plants, and small frames to create a lighter and more personal visual.
Hidden library hosts reading meetings in this apartment. Project by Estudio Elmor. In the photo, library separated from the bedroom by foldable doors.

Projeto de Estudio Elmor. (Bia Nauiack/Divulgação)

6. Include welcoming textures


Fabrics like linen, cotton, and knit contribute to a warm atmosphere. Cushions, blankets, rugs, and curtains are elements that make the nook more inviting. Prioritize a soft color palette, with earthy tones, light greens, pinks, and beiges that promote calm and focus. The presence of natural textures can also reinforce the sense of warmth, especially when combined with wood or fiber furniture.
Rafaela Campanati - Reading Room. CASACOR Mato Grosso 2023 project.

Rafaela Campanati - Sala de Leitura. Projeto da CASACOR Mato Grosso 2023. (Gilberto Galdino/CASACOR)

7. Personalize with art and meaningful objects


Finally, give personality to the space with elements that reflect your style. Paintings, candles, diffusers, photographs, or meaningful pieces help make the project more intimate and unique. The important thing is that this small refuge represents your tastes and is an invitation to slow down.
Paola Ribeiro - Living Casashopping. Project of CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2024.

Paola Ribeiro - Living Casashopping. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2024. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.