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10 reading armchairs that bring comfort and style to the decor

Functional and expressive, reading armchairs help to compose spaces that balance comfort and style

By Milena Garcia

Submitted at Aug 1, 2025, 11:00 AM

08 min de leitura
Project of Patricia Martinez.

Project of Patricia Martinez. (Fran Parente)

In contemporary decoration, the functionality of spaces comes with a desire for meaningful pauses. Creating a reading environment at home — even if small — is a way to reclaim the time dedicated to introspection, silence, and the pleasure of reading. Within this gesture, reading armchairs emerge as protagonists: pieces that welcome the body and mind, inviting you to stay.
Dining Room - Ana Cunha. CASACOR Pernambuco 2018 Project.

Dining Room - Ana Cunha. CASACOR Pernambuco 2018 Project. (Felipe Araújo/CASACOR)

More than comfort, they carry a symbolic value. Reading armchairs represent a moment just for ourselves, a breath in the routine, a refuge within the home. And like any prominent furniture, they deserve attention to design, material selection, positioning, and how they relate to the rest of the projects. Below, we've gathered some tips and inspirations to choose the perfect model!

Design and comfort side by side


A good reading armchair needs to balance ergonomics and aesthetics. The seat should be comfortable and deep, with a backrest that respects the curvature of the spine and side or arm supports that allow for prolonged resting without effort. Some models even include footstools or extensions, ideal for long, relaxing reading sessions.
Casa Dezesseis Salvio and Moacir Junior CASACOR São Paulo 2018 colorful armchair and sofa

Project by Salvio and Moacir Jr. at CASACOR São Paulo 2018. (Disclosure/CASACOR)

At the same time, the piece needs to communicate with the projects it is inserted in. Organic lines, sensory fabrics, and natural finishes help create a welcoming atmosphere. The secret lies in finding a model that reflects both personal taste and the spirit of the home.

Different styles of reading armchairs


Reading armchairs can take on multiple forms and proposals, depending on the lifestyle and aesthetic language of the projects. Some of the most indicated styles are:

Classic with button-tufting


The model with button-tufted finish harkens back to English tradition and offers a refined and timeless air. It is ideal for libraries, elegant living rooms, or bedrooms with more sober decor.
Cloud Nine by Gabriel Bordin SC 2019 Fabio Jr. Severo

Cloud Nine by Gabriel Bordin for CASACOR Santa Catarina 2019. (Fábio Jr. Severo/CASACOR)

Modernist with a light structure


With straight lines and a base of apparent metal or wood, this armchair refers to modernist design and adapts well to spaces with contemporary aesthetics. It tends to value functional design and visual lightness.
Gustavo Martins - CASA Å LEVE, CASACOR São Paulo 2021 project.

Xibô Armchair, by Sergio Rodrigues, present in CASA Å LEVE signed by Gustavo Martins- CASACOR SP 2021 / (Renato Navarro/CASACOR)

Organic and sculptural


Inspired by natural forms and soft volumes, this armchair is almost a sculpture within the space. Perfect for authorial projects, it lends personality and draws attention without losing comfort.
Romário Rodrigues Architects - Casa Cosentino - Sharing. CASACOR São Paulo 2025 Project.

Romário Rodrigues Architects - Casa Cosentino - Sharing. CASACOR São Paulo 2025 Project. (Denilson Machado, of MCA Studio/CASACOR)

Vintage or period pieces


Restored antique models carry history and affection. With updated or preserved fabrics, they are excellent for creating a reading nook full of affectionate memory, with charm and authenticity.
Romário Rodrigues - Pages of Time. CASACOR São Paulo 2024 Project.

Romário Rodrigues - Pages of Time. (MCA Studio/CASACOR)

Modular and multifunctional


For those with little space or who desire versatility, modular versions and multifunctional ones — which include built-in niches or wide arms for support — offer practical and elegant solutions.
Apartment in Ipanema is filled with Brazilian design furniture. Project by Bianca Da Hora. In the photo, home office, with green woodworking and green sofa,

Project of an apartment in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, signed by Bianca Da Hora (Photos: Denilson Machado, of MCA Studio / Visual Production: Diego Matos/CASACOR)

Where to position the reading armchairs


The choice of location for the reading armchair depends on the routine of the house and the intention of the projects. Next to a window, the piece takes advantage of natural light and invites contemplation. In integrated rooms, it can create a pause point between social functions. In the bedroom, it reinforces the welcoming atmosphere and the ritual of slowing down before sleep.
Veredas Autoria Design - Natália Xavier. CASACOR Santa Catarina 2021 Project.

Leme Armchair, by Alfio Lisi, present in Veredas Autoria Design signed by Natália Xavier- CASACOR Santa Catarina 2021 / (Lio Simas/CASACOR)

Regardless of the choice, it is important that the reading nook is quiet, well-ventilated, and has good supplementary lighting — a floor lamp contributes to visual comfort, for example. A rug can define the area, and a side table allows support for books, cups, or affectionate objects.
Casa da Serra Júnior Piacesi CASACOR Minas Gerais 2021 jabuticabeira garden modular refuge

Fardos Sofa, by Atelier Ricardo Fasanello, present in Casa da Serra signed by Júnior Piacesi- CASACOR Minas 2021 / (Jomar Bragança/CASACOR)

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