How To Make a Reading Nook for Kids

When it comes to fostering a love of reading in your child, few things work better than setting up a personalized reading nook in their space.

Not only does a designated reading area encourage a love of books, but it also makes it easy for your child to spend hours comfortably between the pages of whatever story captures their attention. 

Design by SARA BEDERMAN  Photography by STEPHANI BUCHMAN

Now, the key to making a good reading nook is all in personalization. What does your child’s space look like? What are their interests? While using the answers to questions like these to guide you in setting up your reading nook will have you on the right track in no time, endless design possibilities can make it difficult to make decisions. 

If you’re in search of inspiration before tackling your reading nook project, look no further. We’ve compiled four of our favorite reading nook ideas to make a bookworm’s paradise out of even the most ordinary spaces. 

Built-In Reading Nooks

Design by DIANA ROSE  Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

If you’re looking to take on a major project or are in the midst of an overhaul of your child’s space, a built-in reading nook is a great choice. One of the best things about a personalized built-in reading nook is that the design can be personalized to suit your needs. It can be as in-depth as a full wall structure that includes shelves, or as simple as a bench built into already existing storage space. Built-in reading nooks are also perfect for making small spaces feel larger, as they’re built right into the space itself. 

Classic Window Benches

Design by KATE DAVIDSON 

When you think of the phrase ‘reading nook’, it likely brings up images of someone curled up on a bench in front of a window with their head in a book. Window benches certainly make for great reading nooks, thanks to their surplus of natural light. They also offer personalization, without the daunting task of a large-scale renovation. Choosing the cushions, pillows, and even the surrounding paint and wallpaper design means that you can create a space unique to your child’s interests and desires. If you don’t have a window bench built into the structure of your home and aren’t looking to do major renovations, you can easily manufacture a similar design by simply placing a bench in front of any open window with the pillows and blankets of your choice. 

Custom Canopies

Design by MICHELLE BERWICK  Photography by LARRY ARNAL

Sometimes, all it takes to create a reading nook for your child is making a designated space for one, and one of the easiest ways to designate that space is using a canopy. Whether you hang it in an empty corner as décor or use it to create the illusion of a separate space, a canopy is the perfect reading nook. Choose a canopy that matches your child’s personality and space, then add in layers like pillows, rugs, stuffed animals, and other soft elements for comfort. Keep a stack of books nearby and you’ve got yourself a beautifully outfitted reading nook. 

Comfortable Seating

Design by KATE DAVIDSON  Photography by VALERIE WILCOX

Comfort is the key to any good reading nook. And what better way to ensure comfort than by adding in some plush seating? A simple reading nook is a great reading nook, so if you’re looking for ways to create a designated reading corner without breaking the bank, this is a great choice. Choose a comfortable armchair, couch, or beanbag chair, and add in a side table, a lamp, and some fun décor –and voila! You’re done! 

From design ideas to flooring choices and beyond, if you need any help creating the reading nook of your child’s dreams, the design experts at Carpet One Floor & Home are always here to assist you.