Despite my love of reading, I am a finicky bookworm. In order for me to properly settle into a new book, the lighting must be bright enough to protect my eyes, but dim enough for relaxation. There must be no clutter or errant noise within my periphery. I must have a beverage that is either icy cold, or scalding enough I can see steam rising from the mug. The surface I’m seated upon must support my lower lumbar and be cozy—a throw blanket helps—and the mood is usually better when a candle flickers in the distance. Too much to ask? Indeed, but it’s a recipe I’ve found prolongs my focus, and that’s got to count for something.
Curating an atmosphere that’s conducive to a nice, long read isn’t all that (pardon the pun) novel of a concept. The correlation between an uncomfortable environment and the urge to put your book down is pretty obvious. And while not every reader demands the same neurotic combination of factors in order to simply sit down and dive in, there’s no denying the appeal of ambiance—so I put together a brief shopping list to guide your own reading nook ideas.
How to Style a Reading Nook, According to Vogue
From plush armchairs that might just lead to a post-read snooze to the most delightful coasters to complement your favorite coffee cup, here are all the elements you need to curate the perfect reading nook.
Snug Seating
Ready to lay the groundwork for an exquisite reading nook? To begin, you’ll need a plush chair to sink into. Look for design details like deep seat cushions and tall backs, and prioritize soft materials that will make it all too easy to start another chapter.
