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The new calm at home: how to decorate homes that feel liveable

You don't need lots of square metres or a spare room: sometimes all it takes is a good armchair, well-thought-out lighting and a quiet corner.

In an increasingly fast-paced world, the home has become a refuge. And within it, reading corners are a way of getting back to basics: stopping, sitting down and enjoying time without hurry.

It isn't just about reading a book. It's about creating a space that invites you to disconnect, feel at ease and slow down, even if it's only ten minutes a day.

Serene reading corner with a bench and neutral textiles
Photo: Pottery Barn

A corner made for being

The best reading corners are not necessarily the biggest, but the best thought out. A comfortable armchair, a bench with cushions or even a chaise longue can work if they are well accompanied.

Key idea: the key is the feeling of seclusion: soft textiles, calm colours and a layout that invites you to stay.

Reading corner by the window with a made-to-measure bookcase
Photo: Kate Lawrence Interiors

Natural and artificial light, well balanced

Whenever possible, placing the corner near a window is a smart move. The natural light brings wellbeing and makes the space feel more alive during the day.

At night, light for reading and for creating atmosphere

  • A good floor lamp, such as the Vitree floor lamp.
  • An adjustable wall light.
  • A warm indirect light.

They are essential not only for reading comfortably, but for creating atmosphere.

If you want to fine-tune the lighting in each room, we tell you how in how to choose the perfect lighting for each room.

Reading corner integrated into the living room with a chaise longue
Photo: El Mueble

Creating a reading corner in the bedroom

The bedroom can also be more than a place to sleep. Adding a small reading corner brings calm and makes the room a more lived-in, personal place.

Three seats for reading in the bedroom

Comfortable armchairNext to the wall or near the bed.
Light chaise longueFor reading or switching off for a few minutes.
Upholstered seatAn intimate space before the day ends.

With soft lighting and pleasant textiles, the whole adds without overloading.

These kinds of corners work especially well in large or well-proportioned bedrooms, and reinforce the idea that rest doesn't begin only when the light goes out, but long before, when the space invites you to slow down. If your bedroom is smaller, take a look at how to make a small bedroom look elegant.

Reading corner with character and natural textiles
Photo: Côté Maison, AM.PM

Details that make the difference

It's the small details that turn a seat into a true reading corner.

Small gestures that transform the corner

  • A blanket close at hand, such as the Deluxe blanket.
  • A side table to rest a book or a cup.
  • A candle lit at dusk, such as the Bougie candle.

They are simple gestures, but they transform the daily experience and make the home feel different to live in. If you also want to add scent, we give you ideas in aromatherapy and wellbeing.

Quick checklist for your reading corner

  • A comfortable seat: armchair, bench with cushions or chaise longue.
  • Soft textiles and calm colours.
  • Near a window, if possible.
  • Floor lamp, adjustable wall light or warm indirect light for the evening.
  • Blanket close at hand, side table and a candle.

Frequently asked questions about reading corners

How much space do I need for a reading corner?

Very little. You don't need lots of square metres or a spare room: all you need is room for an armchair or a bench, a small side table and good light.

What light is best for reading?

By day, natural light next to a window. At night, a floor lamp or adjustable wall light aimed at the book, combined with a warm indirect light that creates atmosphere without dazzling.

Where should I put a reading corner at home?

In the living room, by a window, or in the bedroom, next to the bed or against a wall. What matters is that it is a quiet place, away from foot traffic and with a feeling of seclusion.

At Pino & Jacaranda we believe in these spaces made for everyday wellbeing. Corners that don't try to impress, but to keep you company.

Because reading, resting or simply being in silence is also part of living well in a home.