At this point, the secret’s out: we absolutely love reading. Not only did we recently partner with Reese’s Book Club to launch a dedicated Reading Room design package, we’re proud, bonafide bibliophiles — we’re more than happy to spend a Friday night cuddled up with our latest page-turner, cozy throw, and beverage of choice (most likely, wine).
With that, we have one question for you, fellow bookworms: if you’re going to design an entire room around your love of reading, why not take it one step further with a dedicated space that pays homage to your favorite genre? Whether you’re a mystery junkie or never met a romance novel you didn’t love (pun intended), we absolutely support the idea of leaning into your go-to genre when designing your reading nook.
Ahead, we’re kicking off the brainstorm with six genre-inspired design concepts. Find our styling tips below:
You Love The Greats And Prose that Stands the Test of Time
Classic novels demand a traditional setting — ideally one that marries a sense of history with timeless style. Start with a time-honored wooden bookcase for your library of literary classics, and add velvet drapes, a studded settee, crystal chandelier, and a pedestal accent table to bring that classical aesthetic to life. When in doubt, embrace timelessness over trendiness.
You're Always Asking Whodunnit and Can't Put a Good Mystery Down
First things first: Set the stage for mystery with a dark and moody backdrop (consider moody sage, hale navy, or even a slate black), and plenty of lamplight. Stick with clean lines, mid-century elements, and hints of cognac leather for that modern detective vibe, and invest in an extra-cozy reading chair that can take you into the wee hours of the morning (who can put down a page-turning whodunnit?!). Finally, abstract artwork serves as a reminder that things are seldom what they seem.
You're Fascinated By New Worlds, Mythical Creatures, and Just A Bit of Magic
For the fantasy lovers out there, there’s no such thing as too eclectic. Feel free to blend design styles, influences, and eras alongside mixed patterns and colors — whatever captivates your interest, go for it. We love an otherworldly statement wallpaper to set the tone, while sculptural curved furniture and statement lighting further spark the imagination. Finally, don’t fuss over your bookshelf arrangement — keep it casual and lived-in for that perfectly undone look.
You Get Lost in Literary Fiction as You Ponder Real-World Issues
This genre offers social commentary on current and historical issues and inspires deep, critical thought (think: Where the Crawdads Sing and Little Fires Everywhere). As such, we see this aesthetic as grounded, curated, and cultured. Lean into realism with solid furniture, clean lines, a muted, earthy color palette, and plenty of natural textures. Create a gallery wall of poetic artwork including portraitures, landscapes, and sketches, and if possible, set up shop near a window (so you can ponder the real-world implications of your latest must-read, obviously).
You Love Falling in Love With Each Steamy Romance Drama
This aesthetic is unabashedly femme, and we are 100% here for it. Create a fitting backdrop with floral wallpaper (peel-and-stick works), and embrace a romantic palette of dusty blushes, brass, and ivory with hints of soft, provençal blue. Ditch the reading chair for a proper chaise, and weave in modern touches to ensure the room isn’t too kitschy (like marble and brass bookcases, geometric rugs, and sculptural pedestal tables).
Adventure Calls You With Each Epic Treasure Hunt or Lost World
Why not read your favorite adventure novels in the great outdoors (or at least on your patio or balcony)? Complement the al fresco environment with full-on bohemian style, complete with a laid-back lounge chair, natural textures, and plenty of plants. Weave in globally-inspired textiles, and polish off the space with string lights or clustered lanterns to extend your reading sessions into the twilight hours (and beyond).
Memoirs Stir Your Soul as You Journey Along With the Author
If you’re into true stories that offer enticing behind-the-scenes details about the subject’s life, consider a reading room that leans classic. Think simple, yet striking: a timeless white and royal blue color palette, a tufted reading chair, traditional sconces, and antique paintings. Add a modern element with a wide striped rug, and polish off the storied look with beloved family heirlooms that speak to your own personal story, like an antique tea set.
Need help designing your dream reading room? We’ve got you covered. Start with our style quiz to get paired up with the perfect designer.